Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN Exposed: Factory QC Failures, Warranty Delays, Safety Red Flags
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Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN
Location: 3195 IN-5, Shipshewana, IN 46565
Contact Info:
• Main: (260) 768-7771
• Service: (260) 768-7990
• service@highlandridgerv.com
• parts@highlandridgerv.com
Official Report ID: 2591
Introduction and Background
AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. The subject of this investigation is Open Range RV in Shipshewana, Indiana. “Open Range” is a prominent towable RV brand under Highland Ridge RV, which is a Jayco company (and part of Thor Industries). The Shipshewana location functions as the corporate/manufacturing headquarters and factory service hub for the Open Range brand rather than a nationwide retail chain. That distinction matters for shoppers: some consumers interact with this site for factory service, warranty issues, factory pick-up/walkthroughs, or referrals to dealers; others will primarily engage through independent dealer partners. Regardless, complaints about sales promises, repairs, warranty handling, and post-sale support often converge on this location when issues escalate.
To see current, real-world experiences, consult the company’s Google Business profile and sort by Lowest Rating. You can access it here: Google Reviews for Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN. Read the most recent low-star reviews for details, then compare patterns noted below.
Before we dive in, one more resource: independent consumer advocates are helping buyers decode the RV marketplace. We recommend searching the Liz Amazing YouTube channel for your target brand/dealer and learning from her RV buyer checklists, factory-tour takeaways, and cautionary tales. See: Liz Amazing’s channel, relevant to Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN. You can search her videos for “Open Range,” “Highland Ridge,” or the exact dealership you’re considering.
Owner Communities and Unfiltered Feedback
Where to ask real owners
Join multiple brand- and model-specific owner groups and forums to compare common issues reported over time. For Facebook, avoid one centralized link; instead, use Google to find multiple groups and read across them for a balanced view (public and private groups): Search for Open Range RV brand Facebook groups – Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN.
- Browse RV forums and subreddits for threads about Open Range/Highland Ridge quality, warranty experiences, and service wait times.
- Compare older posts to the newest threads to see whether problems are improving, recurring, or shifting.
If you’ve dealt with this location, your input can help other shoppers. Have you had service here? Tell us below.
Research Links You Can Use to Verify Claims
Use the following search links to locate discussions, complaints, and recall info tied to Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN. In each, scan for patterns (repeated defect types, delays, communication issues, warranty disputes) and prioritize the newest posts first.
- YouTube search: Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN Issues
- Google search: Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN Issues
- BBB search: Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN
- Reddit r/RVLiving: Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN Issues
- Reddit r/GoRVing: Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN Issues
- Reddit r/rvs: Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN Issues
- PissedConsumer (search manually for “Open Range RV Shipshewana IN”)
- NHTSA recall search entry point for Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN
- RVForums.com (use the onsite search for “Open Range” and “Highland Ridge”)
- RVForum.net (search Open Range / Highland Ridge)
- RVUSA Forum (search “Open Range RV Shipshewana IN Issues”)
- RVInsider.com: Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN Issues
- Good Sam Community: Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN Issues
- Liz Amazing: RV industry investigations relevant to Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN
Your Best Leverage: Get an Independent Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI)
(Serious Concern)
Many RV buyers learn the hard way that their leverage virtually disappears once contracts are signed and the unit leaves the lot. Even at a factory location, issues can be missed during hurried walkthroughs. We strongly recommend hiring a third-party, certified RV inspector for a full PDI before you accept delivery. If the facility refuses to allow a professional outside inspection, consider it a major red flag and walk away. Search locally: Find RV inspectors near me for Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN.
- Make final payment contingent on a clean inspection report and completion of all punch-list items.
- Have the inspector test all slide-outs, seals, LP gas systems, water systems (pressure test), roof integrity, axle alignment, brakes, wiring, and GFCI grounding.
- Get all promised fixes and parts replacements documented with dates, part numbers, and a commitment to timelines.
Owners frequently report cancelled trips and months-long service delays awaiting parts or authorization after taking possession. Your inspection contingency is your practical safeguard against that outcome. If you’ve attempted a third-party inspection at this location, were you allowed full access? Share your story.
Patterns in Consumer Complaints at Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN
Below is a synthesis of issues repeatedly alleged in 1–2 star public reviews, forum threads, and video testimonials across the RV community regarding Open Range/Highland Ridge units and support experiences tied to the Shipshewana facility or its network of dealers. Always cross-check the recent, lowest-rated Google reviews directly: Review snapshots for Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN.
Warranty Approval and Service Delays
(Serious Concern)
Multiple owners report slow warranty approvals and long lead times for parts sourced through the manufacturer. Complaints commonly describe weeks or months between diagnosis and resolution—often crossing peak camping seasons. Some reviews allege repeated rescheduling, incomplete fixes, and lack of proactive communication when parts are backordered. When a factory location is involved, consumers expect faster turnaround; slow cycles here have an outsized impact on trust and trip planning.
Quality Control at Delivery (Fit, Finish, and Systems)
(Serious Concern)
Open Range towables are often praised for layouts and features, but recurring QC complaints are visible across owner forums: water leaks at seals and fittings, trim and cabinetry issues, misaligned doors, slide adjustment problems, electrical gremlins (shorts, inoperable outlets), GFCI trips, or under-torqued fasteners. Some buyers say these were present at first walkthrough and not fully resolved when they took delivery. Independent PDIs frequently uncover these items, underscoring the importance of a thorough pre-acceptance inspection.
Communication Breakdowns and Responsiveness
(Moderate Concern)
Low-star reviews often cite difficulty reaching a responsive person, delayed call-backs, and unclear timelines. While some of that can be seasonal or supply-chain related, the impact on customers is real: missed trips, storage costs, and time off work. At a factory service center, consumers expect more direct answers but report mixed experiences.
Out-of-Pocket Costs and “Upsells”
(Moderate Concern)
Although financing and add-on products are often handled through retail partners, shoppers dealing with this location report feeling pressure to add extended service contracts, paint protection, sealants, or “must-have” packages whose value can be questionable. Across the RV industry, these add-ons frequently carry steep markups, limited coverage, and exclusions that leave owners paying for major components anyway. Ask for line-item pricing, read the exclusion lists, and compare third-party plans before agreeing.
Financing and High APRs via Partner Dealers
(Moderate Concern)
Many buyers ultimately finance through dealers affiliated with the brand. Complaints in RV forums describe unexpectedly high APRs and aggressive “payment-only” sales tactics (downplaying total cost). It’s smart to secure pre-approval through your bank/credit union and use that as leverage. Never sign with blank lines, and don’t let anyone rush you through Truth-in-Lending disclosures. For broader industry context, see independent advice from creators like Liz Amazing: Financing and upsell caution relevant to Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN.
Trade-In Complaints (Low-Ball Offers)
(Moderate Concern)
While trade-ins are typically processed by retail dealers, consumers often associate negative trade-in experiences with the manufacturer brand. Owners have reported substantial gaps between dealer offers and current market pricing. Shop your trade to multiple buyers (consignment dealers, RV-specific marketplaces) and get written offers before you negotiate a brand-new purchase attached to Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN.
Title and Paperwork Delays
(Moderate Concern)
Some buyers allege slow paperwork, MSO/title transfers, and document errors that make registration or insurance activation stressful. Though much of this flows through partner dealers, delays often push consumers back toward the factory for answers. Use a checklist at signing; don’t accept delivery without complete, correct documents.
Service Capability and Technician Experience
(Serious Concern)
Factory service centers should be the gold standard. Yet some reviews across the RV space describe inconsistent diagnostic ability, quick “band-aid” fixes, or “no problem found” determinations that don’t resolve recurring defects. Owners of Open Range units alleging repeat visits for the same issue point to inexperience, time pressure, or parts limitations. Request detailed work orders with diagnostics and root-cause explanations.
Unkept Promises and Discrepancies
(Serious Concern)
Complaints include promised fixes not completed before pick-up, missing accessories, or differences between what was advertised versus delivered (e.g., specific appliances, insulation claims, or towing capacities). Demand the Sales Order and Build Sheet, compare serial numbers/part numbers, and have deviations corrected in writing before signing.
Parts Availability and Supply Chain
(Moderate Concern)
Supply-chain issues have backlogged RV repairs nationwide. When factory service funnels orders through central parts systems, small issues can immobilize a coach for weeks. Set expectations, document ETAs, and ask for temporary remedies (loaner components or interim safety fixes) where feasible.
Evidence Source: Google Reviews and Forums
For specificity, go directly to the source and sort the company’s Google reviews by Lowest Rating. Verify current timelines, warranty outcomes, and the nature of defects cited: What customers say about Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN. Compare those anecdotes with long-form owner posts on RV forums and subreddits using the research links above.
Have you faced similar issues with scheduling or approval? Add your experience to help other buyers.
Product and Safety Impact Analysis
How reported defects can affect safety and cost
(Serious Concern)
Common RV defects—water intrusion, LP leaks, electrical faults, axle/brake misalignment—carry safety risks. Water intrusion leads to rot, mold, delamination, and damaged subfloors. LP leaks can be catastrophic; any sulfur odor demands immediate shutoff and professional testing. Electrical issues (shorts, reversed polarity, GFCI nuisance trips) risk appliance damage or fire. Alignment or brake problems can cause dangerous sway, uneven tire wear, blowouts, or reduced braking efficiency. These are not “cosmetic” issues; they can strand you or endanger occupants if ignored.
Search for recalls affecting Open Range/Highland Ridge models via NHTSA’s recall tool and confirm with your specific VIN. Start here and refine your search by manufacturer name and model: NHTSA recall search entry for Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN. If a recall applies, ask the service center to prioritize it before delivery. Delayed recall fixes are a major liability for any seller.
Independent voices like Liz Amazing routinely cover safety-related due diligence and how to vet a coach before purchase. See: Pre-purchase risk checks applicable to Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN.
Legal and Regulatory Warnings
Potential exposure based on reported patterns
(Serious Concern)
When consumers allege misrepresentation, warranty denials, or failure to repair defects covered under warranty, there are potential implications under the Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act and state consumer-protection statutes. The FTC oversees warranty advertising and performance obligations; deceptive practices or unfair acts can trigger enforcement. Learn more: FTC: Federal Warranty Law – for Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN consumers.
- Document every defect with photos/video, maintain a log of contacts and repair attempts, and keep copies of all work orders and parts invoices.
- File safety complaints and verify recall status with NHTSA if your issue could affect safety: Report a Vehicle Safety Problem – NHTSA (relevant to Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN).
- For suspected unfair/deceptive practices, consider contacting the Indiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division for guidance or complaint filing.
- If warranty obligations are not honored after reasonable opportunities to repair, consult a consumer-rights attorney about potential remedies under Magnuson–Moss.
Buying Smart: Concrete Steps Before You Commit
Pre-purchase checklist
- Hire a third-party RV inspector. Do not skip. If access is denied, walk. Search: Independent RV inspectors near Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN.
- Obtain the full Build Sheet and verify component brands/models (AC BTUs, fridge type, inverter/charger specs, slide mechanisms).
- Pressure test plumbing; check for leaks at PEX fittings, water heater, and wet bay. Moisture meter walls and floor around slides and windows.
- Inspect roof laps and sealants; verify production dates and torque specs on wheels and lugs; inspect leaf springs/axles for alignment.
- Cycle all slides under load; inspect for rack wear, creaks, misalignment, or seal pinches. Test auto-level systems repeatedly.
- Confirm GFCI operation, polarity, and bonding/grounding with a tester. Test transfer switch and inverter pass-through.
- Light all LP appliances; perform leak-down and bubble tests on LP lines; verify detector age and operation.
Financial protection tips
- Secure your own financing ahead of time and use it to negotiate APR and price with any dealer partner. Compare total loan cost, not just monthly payment.
- Decline add-ons you don’t need. Request line-item pricing for “protection” packages. Read exclusions in any extended service contract.
- If trading in, get written offers from multiple sources before entering a transaction tied to Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN.
- Do not accept delivery without complete paperwork, correct MSO/title details, and all promised accessories in-hand.
Post-sale survival plan
- Log every defect from day one and submit a consolidated punch list quickly to start the warranty clock.
- Ask for realistic ETAs on parts; get commitments in writing. If you’re seasonal, ask whether summer repairs can be prioritized.
- If stuck in a long queue, request interim fixes for safety-critical items.
If you’ve navigated service or warranty with this facility, what worked, and what didn’t? Add tips for other shoppers.
Objectivity: Noting Improvements and Positive Experiences
Fairness requires acknowledging that not all experiences are negative. Some owners report cordial interactions with staff, effective repairs on complex problems, or rapid turnarounds when parts are in stock. Factory-service teams can have deep product knowledge, and this site has unique access to engineering resources compared with third-party dealers. Additionally, broader supply constraints and labor market challenges since 2020 have affected many RV service operations.
That said, buyers should plan as if delays and defects are possible. The gap between a great purchase and a frustrating one often comes down to preparation: independent inspections, airtight documentation, and clear timelines before final payment.
How to Read Recent Google Reviews
We encourage you to independently verify current consumer reports. Visit: Google Business reviews for Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN, then choose Sort by “Lowest rating.” Look for patterns such as:
- How long did repairs or approvals take?
- Were quality issues found at delivery, and were they resolved pre-acceptance?
- Did timelines for parts and communications match what was promised?
- Were safety-related issues (brakes, LP system, electrical) prioritized?
- What outcomes did owners achieve after escalating complaints?
Why Independent Voices Matter
Influencers and consumer advocates have brought much-needed transparency to RV shopping. In particular, long-form walkthroughs, teardown analyses, and buyer checklists help you spot risk before you sign. Use them to pressure-test claims and your prospective unit’s build quality. We recommend you search creator channels by brand and model. For example: Liz Amazing’s buyer checklists and RV deep-dives for Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN shoppers.
Summary Judgment
Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN is the brand’s factory/service hub rather than a traditional retail chain store. That gives it unique potential to resolve complex issues—but also centralizes responsibility when warranty/service performance falls short. Across public reviews and forums, recurring themes include slow warranty approvals, delays in parts and scheduling, spotty communication, and quality-control misses at delivery that should have been caught by a thorough PDI. Add-on upsells and financing challenges typically flow through dealer partners, where buyers report high APR offers and inflated “protection” packages of questionable value.
Given these patterns, your best protection is a rigorous, independent inspection prior to acceptance, ironclad documentation of every promised remedy, and a firm stance on timelines before final payment. If those safeguards are resisted, move on to a different seller or unit.
Based on the weight of reported consumer experiences tied to Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN—especially around QC at delivery, warranty/service delays, and communication challenges—we do not recommend completing a purchase without a third-party PDI and written, time-bound commitments. If those conditions cannot be met, shoppers should consider other RV dealerships or brands with stronger, verifiable service records.
Comments
Have you purchased or sought service from Open Range RV- Shipshewana, IN? Your firsthand experience can help fellow buyers. Please share details about timelines, communication, and outcomes in the comments below.
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