Monaco Coach-La Palma RV Exposed: Brake Recalls, Leaks, Delamination & Costly Downtime
Want to Remove this Report? Click Here
Help spread the word and share this report:
Monaco Coach-La Palma
Location: 91320 Coburg Industrial Way, Coburg, OR 97408
Contact Info:
• service@monacocoach.com
• monacocoach@revgroup.com
• Customer 877-466-6226
• Roadside 855-268-0414
Official Report ID: 1483
Monaco Coach-La Palma: Background, Reputation, and What Shoppers Need to Know
AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. The Monaco Coach-La Palma is a Class A motorhome line offered primarily during the early-to-late 2000s (gas and select diesel-pusher variants). Built under the Monaco Coach Corporation umbrella, the La Palma targeted mid-market buyers with multiple floorplans on Workhorse and Ford chassis (gas) and select Roadmaster chassis (diesel). Enthusiasts often praise La Palma’s roomy layouts and “luxury look” for the price at the time of sale. However, recurring owner complaints over the years point to significant quality-control variability, expensive structural and appliance issues, and serious chassis-related safety recalls on certain configurations. Because Monaco Coach entered bankruptcy in 2009 and later restructured under different ownership, parts and support for legacy models can be inconsistent—raising risks for today’s used buyers.
We compiled patterns of complaints, recalls, and owner narratives from forums, consumer-review sites, YouTube, and regulatory databases to help you verify, not just “hope,” your way into a purchase decision.
Unfiltered Owner Research: Where to Look First
Start your research by reading and watching what owners say in their own words. Use these evidence hubs and search queries to find Monaco Coach-La Palma specifics:
- YouTube: Monaco Coach La Palma Problems
- Google: Monaco Coach La Palma Problems
- BBB: Monaco Coach La Palma (search complaints across Monaco/REV Group dealership network)
- Reddit r/rvs: Monaco Coach La Palma Problems
- Good Sam Community: Monaco Coach La Palma Problems
- RVInsider: Monaco Coach La Palma Problems
- NHTSA Recalls: Monaco Coach La Palma
- RVForums.com and RVForum.net (use onsite search: “La Palma problems,” “Workhorse brakes,” “roof leaks”)
- RVUSA Forum (search “Monaco Coach La Palma Problems”)
- Google Search: Monaco Coach La Palma Facebook Groups (join multiple owner groups for unfiltered, day-to-day feedback)
- PissedConsumer (manually search “Monaco Coach” and “La Palma” on site)
Also consider the independent watchdog work of the RV-focused creator Liz Amazing—her investigations help consumers identify systemic quality and service problems across brands. Explore her content here and search for your model: Consumer watchdog insights from Liz Amazing’s RV channel.
Have you owned a La Palma or shopped one recently? Add your firsthand experience so other buyers can learn from it.
Before You Buy: Make a Third-Party Inspection Non-Negotiable
(Serious Concern)
Across forums and reviews, one of the most common—and preventable—buyer regrets is skipping a full, independent inspection before taking delivery. On used La Palmas, hidden water intrusion, failing roof and slide seals, brake and chassis issues, and aging appliances can turn a seemingly good deal into a multi-thousand-dollar repair slog. We strongly recommend booking an NRVIA-certified or similarly qualified inspector, hired by you, not the seller. Search locally: RV Inspectors near me. Your pre-purchase inspection is your leverage; after you sign, many dealers prioritize new sales and warranty jobs over sold used units. Multiple owners report cancelled camping trips because their RV sat at the dealer for weeks or months awaiting parts and authorization.
Ask the inspector for moisture readings at corners, under windows, around the windshield, in slide floors, and in roof-to-cap seams; documentation on brake condition and any related recall work; and thermal scans of electrical panels and transfer switches.
Structural Integrity and Water Intrusion Patterns
Sidewall Delamination and Fiberglass “Bubbling”
(Serious Concern)
Owners frequently report sidewall delamination on older La Palma coaches, particularly where water intrudes at window frames, marker lights, roof seams, and poorly sealed penetrations. Delamination can manifest as soft spots, waves, or “bubbles” in the fiberglass (Filon) exterior. Once the adhesive bond fails due to trapped moisture, the fix is invasive and costly—often exceeding the value proposition of an older gas Class A. See owner discussions and photos via: Google: Monaco Coach La Palma Delamination and community narratives at RVInsider: Monaco Coach La Palma Problems. Many posts describe previous “patch” resealing that didn’t address the underlying issue. Once water intrusion starts, damage spreads behind the scenes.
Roof Membrane, Cap Seams, and Clearance Light Leaks
(Serious Concern)
Roof membrane aging and seam failures where the roof meets front and rear caps are recurrent topics. Clearance/marker lights on the front cap are notorious leak points if the gaskets shrink or bedding fails. On a used La Palma, expect periodic resealing and possibly replacement of aged sealants; some owners report chasing persistent leaks despite dealer “fixes.” Inspectors often find subtle staining inside cabinets or behind valances that betray a longer-term water path. For community documentation, search: Good Sam: Monaco Coach La Palma Water Leaks and Reddit: La Palma Roof Leaks.
Slide-Out Floor Rot, Toppers, and Seal Failures
(Moderate Concern)
La Palma slide-outs (various mechanisms across the years) can suffer from water intrusion at the slide roof, wiper seals, and corners—leading to soft spots or rot in slide floors. Slide toppers, if present, may be aged or torn; water pools and winds can drive moisture into seams. Many owners report replacing seals and topper fabric as routine. It’s critical to inspect for compression damage on slide floors and check for daylight around corners. See real-world reports: Google: Monaco Coach La Palma Slide Problems and Good Sam: La Palma Slide Leaks.
Chassis, Brakes, and Drivability
Workhorse W-Series Brake Overheating and Caliper Seizure (Certain Gas Models)
(Serious Concern)
Many gas La Palma units rode on Workhorse W20/W22 chassis during the mid-2000s. These chassis were subject to a high-profile brake recall involving overheating and sticking calipers, leading to brake fade, wheel-end fires, and costly repairs. Owners describe white-knuckle descents and smoking brakes long before the recall remedy was completed. Verify recall status by VIN: NHTSA Recalls: Monaco Coach La Palma, and review owner accounts here: Reddit: La Palma Workhorse Brakes. If the coach still has original calipers/hoses or exhibits uneven pad wear, factor immediate service into your budget and discuss safety implications with a heavy-vehicle brake specialist.
Ford F53 Handling, Sway, and Steering Play (Gas Models)
(Moderate Concern)
La Palma coaches on the Ford F53 often attract complaints about “wander,” body roll, and driver fatigue in crosswinds. Many owners invest in aftermarket sway bars, trac bars, steering stabilizers, and proper alignment to calm the chassis. These upgrades can transform drivability, but they represent additional cost. See owner strategies and setup checklists: Google: La Palma F53 Handling Problems and forum threads via RVForums.com (search “F53 wander” and “Cheap Handling Fix”).
Roadmaster RR4R Trailing Arm Failures (Select Diesel-Pusher Variants)
(Serious Concern)
Certain Monaco-era Roadmaster RR4R chassis experienced rear trailing-arm cracking or failure. While the La Palma line was mostly gas, some diesel-pusher La Palma variants fall within the era when trailing arms were problematic on related models. Failure can cause rear-end misalignment and unsafe handling. Many owners proactively retrofit upgraded trailing arms from aftermarket suppliers. Research applicability for the specific VIN and chassis: Google: La Palma trailing arm failure and scan technical posts at RVForum.net (onsite search “Monaco RR4R trailing arms”). If you are evaluating a diesel La Palma, chassis inspection by a heavy-truck suspension shop is essential.
House Systems and Appliances: Recurring Trouble Spots
Norcold 1200/1210 Refrigerator Fire-Hazard Recalls
(Serious Concern)
Many La Palma rigs were equipped with the Norcold 1200-family absorption refrigerators, which have long histories of safety recalls tied to potential boiler overheating and fire risk. Owners report multiple recall rounds and mixed success with the high-temperature cutoff kits. Some choose residential fridge conversions to eliminate the risk. Verify your unit’s model and recall completion: NHTSA Recalls: Monaco Coach La Palma and watch real-world owner experiences: YouTube: La Palma Norcold Recall. During inspection, check for signs of heat damage, proper venting, and secure wiring.
Leveling Jack Failures, Leaks, and Controller Issues
(Moderate Concern)
Hydraulic leveling systems (Power Gear or HWH, depending on year) draw frequent complaints for internal leaks, slow retraction, and electrical/control faults. Stuck jacks can strand a trip and sometimes require field “rescue” procedures. Look for jack pitting and dirt ingestion; verify that auto-level functions and manual modes work reliably. Community troubleshooting is abundant: Good Sam: La Palma Leveling Jacks and Reddit: Leveling Problems.
Electrical: Transfer Switch Overheating, Converter/Charger Failures
(Serious Concern)
Older La Palmas commonly face electrical aging issues: automatic transfer switches (ATS) overheating or melting at lugs, failing converter/chargers, and corroded ground/bonding points. Symptoms include intermittent shore power, hot smells from the electrical bay, and battery banks not charging during storage. Inspectors often open the ATS to look for heat discoloration or loose strands at the lugs. Preemptive replacement with a modern ATS and a smart charger is a popular fix. See owner reports: Google: La Palma Transfer Switch Problems and RVInsider: Electrical Problems.
Plumbing: PEX Fitting Leaks, Water Pump Noise, and Tank Sensor Inaccuracy
(Moderate Concern)
Time, travel vibration, and thermal cycles take a toll on plumbing. Owners report PEX fitting drips, noisy pumps that cavitate, and gray/black tank sensors that read full when tanks are clean. Regularly inspect all PEX bends and tees, replace suspect fittings, and consider external tank sensor upgrades. Crowd-sourced tips here: Good Sam: La Palma Plumbing Problems and Reddit: Tank Sensor Problems.
Build Quality, Fit-and-Finish, and Aging Materials
Cabinetry Fastening, Squeaks, and Interior Trim Gaps
(Moderate Concern)
Even when new, some La Palma owners reported inconsistent cabinet fastening, squeaks, and trim gaps. With age, screws in thin substrates can loosen, hinges sag, and drawer slides bind. Traveling exacerbates the issues. Many owners undertake weekend-long “tighten and Loctite” projects to tame squeaks and rattles. Cross-reference experiences: Google: La Palma cabinet problems.
Upholstery Peeling and Exterior Decal Fading
(Moderate Concern)
Vinyl upholstery in older rigs often peels, and La Palma is no exception. Owners also report exterior decal cracking and substantial sun fade. Replacement costs add up fast; budget accordingly or seek a unit that has already been reupholstered and/or painted. Owner galleries and quotes: Google: La Palma upholstery peeling and Reddit: Decal Fading.
Warranty, Service Delays, and Parts Availability
Post-Bankruptcy Parts and Support Complexities
(Serious Concern)
Monaco Coach’s 2009 bankruptcy and subsequent changes in ownership complicated legacy parts support. While many generic components are still available, model-specific trim, Roadmaster chassis pieces (for diesel variants), and certain body items can be scarce. Owners report extended downtime waiting for parts or improvising with aftermarket solutions. Check brand-level complaint profiles that touch on parts and service experiences: BBB: Monaco Coach and owner narratives on RVInsider: Monaco Coach La Palma Problems. If certain chassis pieces are suspect (e.g., trailing arms on applicable diesels), confirm availability of upgraded parts before purchase.
Dealer Prep, Punch Lists, and Long Repair Queues
(Serious Concern)
Owners frequently complain about insufficient pre-delivery inspections and long waits after the sale. Once a used La Palma is on the invoice, your repair priority may drop. Consumers commonly describe cancelled trips because their coach sits in a queue awaiting technician time or supplier authorization. Your leverage is highest before purchase—use it to insist on documented fixes or escrowed holdbacks for unresolved items. Again: book an independent pre-buy inspection to surface issues before you sign: Find a local RV Inspector. Share your dealer-prep story to help others avoid the same: What was your delivery experience?
Legal and Regulatory Warnings
While most La Palma units are long out of factory warranty, serious defects and safety issues still carry legal implications:
- Safety Recalls and NHTSA Compliance: If a recall applies, manufacturers and component suppliers must provide remedies. Always check VIN status via NHTSA’s database for Monaco Coach La Palma. Operating an unrepaired recalled system (e.g., Workhorse brakes, certain Norcold fridges) can expose you to safety risk and complicate insurance claims.
- Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act: For any remaining written warranties on replacement parts or dealer-added service contracts, the Act requires clear terms and prohibits deceptive warranty practices. Keep meticulous records of complaints and repair attempts.
- State Lemon Laws and RV-Specific Protections: Many state lemon laws either exclude motorhomes or only cover the chassis portion. However, breach-of-warranty and deceptive trade practices statutes may apply if a seller misrepresents condition or fails to disclose known defects. Consult a consumer attorney if you encounter repeated, unresolved defects that substantially impair use, value, or safety.
- FTC Advertising and Disclosure: Dealers must avoid deceptive claims. If you were assured in writing that problems were fixed, or a unit was “fully inspected,” and evidence contradicts this, you may have remedies under state UDAP laws (unfair and deceptive acts and practices).
If you have navigated legal recourse related to a La Palma—successful or not—your perspective can help others. Would you share what worked and what didn’t?
Product and Safety Impact Analysis
Multiple defect patterns documented by owners and in recall histories demonstrate material safety and financial risks for La Palma buyers:
- High Safety Exposure: Workhorse brake issues (gas) and potential trailing-arm concerns (diesel RR4R chassis) create road-safety hazards. Norcold refrigerator recalls add fire risk within the living space.
- Structural Risk Multiplier: Once water gets into walls or slide floors, costs escalate quickly. Structural repairs often exceed typical insurance deductibles and may not be covered unless tied to a specific, sudden event.
- Electrical Fire Potential: Aging transfer switches and high-amperage connections can overheat. Regular thermal inspection and conservative replacement are warranted.
- Downtime and Opportunity Cost: Due to parts scarcity and dealer backlogs, owners face lost camping seasons and out-of-pocket travel and lodging costs while the rig is down.
- Resale Headwinds: Known issues (delam, decal fade, upholstery peel) are visible to any buyer’s inspector, depressing resale value and limiting buyer pool.
For broader context on recurring RV quality and service issues, see independent consumer advocacy in the RV space and search for your model there: Investigative deep dives by Liz Amazing.
Representative Owner Complaints and Where to Verify
Below are recurring complaint categories reported across public forums and review aggregators, with links to help you locate examples and judge the volume and credibility:
- “Bubbles” in exterior fiberglass and soft walls after rain: Google: La Palma Delamination
- Brakes smoking on grades or pulling to one side (Workhorse chassis): Reddit: Workhorse Brakes
- Norcold fridge recall roundabouts and high-temp cutoffs tripping: YouTube: Norcold Recall on La Palma
- Roof leak “mysteries” around marker lights and cap seams: Good Sam: Water Leaks
- Electrical smells and hot transfer switch covers: Google: Transfer Switch Problems
- Long dealer waits, poor communication, missed delivery dates: BBB: Monaco Coach
If your experience aligns or differs, your input helps balance the picture for future buyers. Share your experience below.
If You Already Own a La Palma: Risk-Reducing Steps
- Run your VIN on NHTSA: Confirm all recalls are closed: NHTSA Recalls Lookup.
- Brake System Audit (Workhorse/Ford): Inspect calipers, hoses, fluid condition, and slide pins. Consider brake fluid flushes at conservative intervals and discuss grade-driving technique with a heavy-vehicle shop.
- Thermal Camera Pass on Electrical Bays: Scan ATS, breaker panels, and high-amp connections under load. Replace any discolored or heat-scarred equipment preemptively.
- Water-Intrusion Hunt: Rebed marker lights and roof seams, verify window and ladder penetrations, and take moisture readings at corners and slide floors every season.
- Fridge Fire Mitigation: Verify Norcold recall kit installation and operation; consider a residential conversion if you’re seeing frequent cutoff trips or heat damage.
- Document Everything: Keep dated photos and receipts for insurance and potential buyer transparency later.
- Periodic Third-Party Checkups: An independent inspector can save you from compounding damage, especially after storage or heavy travel. Search locally: RV Inspectors near me.
For broader consumer education across brands and models, you can also search this watchdog channel: Liz Amazing’s RV industry investigations. And if you’ve solved a persistent problem on your La Palma, what fix finally worked?
Objectivity Check: Any Bright Spots?
Balanced owner feedback acknowledges that a well-maintained La Palma can deliver comfortable camping with classic Monaco interior styling. Some units have been extensively refurbished—new roofs, residential fridges, upgraded suspensions—making them more dependable today than when they left the factory. A subset of owners report years of satisfaction with routine maintenance and proactive upgrades.
However, the thread through many complaints is not personal disappointment—it’s the cost and stress of remediating known systemic issues (water intrusion, brake recalls, aging electrical) on a platform where parts and specialized knowledge may be shrinking. That calculus isn’t the same for every buyer: skilled DIY owners may extract value; hands-off buyers often face higher costs and longer downtime.
Bottom Line and Recommendation
After evaluating extensive public reports, recall histories, and owner discussions, the Monaco Coach-La Palma shows a dense concentration of risks that used buyers must approach with eyes wide open. Chief among them are safety-sensitive brake and chassis concerns on certain configurations, costly structural water-intrusion and delamination events, and aging electrical components with fire potential. Service backlogs and parts scarcity compound the financial and opportunity cost of ownership.
We do not recommend the Monaco Coach-La Palma for most shoppers unless you (1) secure a meticulous third-party inspection, (2) verify recall closure and chassis integrity by VIN and by a qualified shop, and (3) budget significant reserves for remediation. If you want a simpler ownership profile, consider other brands/models with stronger, more recent reliability records and readily available parts.
Have something to add or refute? Help other readers by detailing your La Palma journey.
Want to Remove this Report? Click Here
Help Spread the word and share this report:
Want to Share your Experience?