Palomino-Banshee RV Exposed: Leaks, Lift Failures, Warranty Delays & Off-Road Reality Check

Introduction and background: what the Palomino Banshee is, and what shoppers should know

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. The Palomino Banshee is a lightweight, off-road oriented pop-up/tent camper line historically marketed by Palomino, a division of Forest River. It has been positioned as an affordable way to reach rougher campsites with a compact footprint, fold-down profile, and the promise of “rugged” features and simplified amenities. In practice, owner-reported experiences paint a mixed picture. While some owners appreciate the value and towability, a significant volume of complaints over build quality, water intrusion, lift system reliability, warranty delays, and dealer service backlogs present consistent risk themes that prospective buyers should weigh carefully.

Because pop-up campers combine soft-wall tenting, a lift mechanism, and lightweight framing, they are particularly sensitive to workmanship and sealing standards. The Banshee’s off-road branding adds extra stress on components (frame, axles, lift system), making quality control and post-sale support even more critical. The sections below aggregate the most frequently cited problems and direct you to independent sources so you can verify each claim, read first-person owner stories, and gauge severity.

Find unfiltered Palomino Banshee owner feedback and evidence

Before making a decision, examine model-specific complaints and discussions across multiple platforms:

• YouTube: See real-world walk-throughs and problem diaries: YouTube search results for Palomino Banshee Problems.
• Google: Broader owner posts and review sites: Google search for Palomino Banshee Problems.
• BBB (Better Business Bureau): See complaint patterns and responses about Palomino/Forest River and model mentions: BBB search for Palomino Banshee.
• Reddit (owner communities): Model problem threads in r/rvs, r/RVLiving, and r/GoRVing:
  • r/rvs search: Palomino Banshee Problems
  • r/RVLiving search: Palomino Banshee Problems
  • r/GoRVing search: Palomino Banshee Problems
• RVInsider: Owner reviews and scoring: RVInsider search for Palomino Banshee Problems.
• Good Sam Community: Owner threads on specific failure modes: Good Sam search for Palomino Banshee Problems.
• NHTSA recalls and manufacturer communications: Verify open recalls by VIN and model: NHTSA recalls search for Palomino Banshee.
• Facebook owner groups: Join multiple Banshee/Palomino groups for uncensored feedback. Use this Google search to locate active groups: Google search: Palomino Banshee Facebook Groups.

For industry watchdog content, search investigative reviews on the Liz Amazing channel. She regularly documents RV quality and service pitfalls: Liz Amazing’s RV consumer advocacy channel (search her videos for “Palomino Banshee” or the specific floorplan you’re considering).

Before you buy: a third-party RV inspection is essential

Arrange an independent inspection before you take possession—this is your leverage. If you sign the paperwork and drive off, many dealers will prioritize new sales and push your warranty issues to the back of the line. Owners routinely report canceled trips and long waits while their RV sits at the dealer for months awaiting parts or authorization.

• Find a certified NRVIA inspector or experienced mobile tech: Use a local search: Search: RV Inspectors near me.
• Make the sale contingent on inspection: Put it in writing. If the dealer objects, that’s a red flag.
• Require documentation: Request pre-delivery inspection (PDI) checklists, leak tests, and torque logs for suspension/axle fasteners.
• Bring a moisture meter and thermal camera check: Water intrusion is common on tent campers; identify leaks before ownership.

Have you had a Palomino Banshee inspected before signing? Add your story in the comments.

Reported problem patterns and risk areas

Water intrusion: roof seams, bunk ends, and tenting leaks

Owners frequently report leaks from roof seams, vent cutouts, A/C gaskets, and tenting attachment points, as well as condensation that presents like leaks. Once water gets into the roof/ceiling or bunk-end decks, rot can progress quickly, leading to soft floors and structural weakness.

• Roof sealant failure: In lightweight roofs, any missed sealant pass or cracked lap seal can channel water under the membrane. Many owners describe damp ceiling panels after rain, then visible staining.
• Tent canvas and zippers: Wicking at seams, zipper tracks that don’t close tightly, and pinholes near stress points are recurrent complaints, especially after a season of UV exposure or rough-road vibration.
• Bunk end moisture: Puddling on bunk end mattresses from leaked or condensed moisture. Without prompt drying, mold becomes a risk.

Research owner experiences: Google: Palomino Banshee Water Leaks, YouTube: Palomino Banshee Leaks, and forum threads: Good Sam: Banshee leak issues, RVInsider reviews mentioning Banshee problems.

To see how independent creators investigate RV water intrusion, explore this channel and search for relevant models: Liz Amazing’s deep dives into RV leak problems.

Lift system failures and roof structure issues

Pop-up lift mechanisms and roof structures are high-stress components. Reported issues include cables snapping, pulleys binding, winch failures, and uneven lifting that twists the roof and damages tracks or canvas. Some owners describe roofs dropping suddenly or becoming stuck partially raised—dangerous scenarios in windy or remote conditions.

• Symptom clusters: Grinding noises during lift, excessive cranking force, one corner lagging, visible cable fraying, or sudden “pop” followed by roof drop.
• Root causes cited by owners: Insufficient lubrication, misaligned guides from factory, or off-road jolts that loosen hardware. Poor dealer PDI adjustments can accelerate wear.
• Knock-on damage: Once a cable gives way, canvas rips and roof corner cracks are common. Repairs can be costly and time-consuming, and not always covered if deemed “user damage.”

Compare lift system reports: Google: Palomino Banshee Lift System Problems, YouTube: Banshee lift problems, Reddit r/rvs: lift issues.

Frame, axle, and tire troubles on “off-road” packages

“Off-road” branding does not make a light trailer indestructible. Owners of off-road targeted tent campers often report premature tire wear, axle alignment problems, leaf spring hanger damage, and loose U-bolts after rough-road use. In some cases, a mismatch between cargo loading, tongue weight, and wheel/tire capacity contributes to blowouts and bent components.

• Alignment and camber: Rapid inside/outside tire wear suggests axle misalignment. Off-road jolts can worsen factory tolerances.
• Fastener torque: U-bolt torque settling can occur after the break-in period; if not re-torqued, the axle may shift. Ask for documented torque checks before delivery.
• Tire quality: Economy tires are common; under-spec’d or poorly balanced tires lead to heat build-up and blowouts that can shred the tent body and wheel wells.

See owner threads and alignment discussions: Google: Palomino Banshee Axle Problems, Good Sam: axle issues on Banshee, Reddit r/RVLiving: Banshee tire problems.

Electrical system bugs: 12V wiring, batteries, and converters

Complaints include intermittent 12V shorts, finicky fuses, dead house batteries after short storage, and converters that fail to reach proper charging voltages. Chafed wiring near the frame or lift mechanism can intermittently blow fuses. Owners also cite sub-par ground connections and poor strain relief on harnesses.

• Batteries: Small OEM batteries and phantom draws (LP detector, stereo memory) can deplete charge quickly. Many owners upgrade battery capacity and add disconnect switches.
• Converters: Entry-level converters may not provide multi-stage charging, shortening battery life without upgrades.
• Lighting and fans: Loose crimp connectors cause flickering and intermittent appliance power.

Research patterns: Google: Palomino Banshee Electrical Problems, forum searches: RVForums (use search for “Palomino Banshee electrical”), RVForum.net (search Banshee wiring), and YouTube: electrical issues on Banshee.

Propane systems and appliance reliability

Reports of inconsistent fridge cooling, finicky furnace ignition, and water heater control board issues are widespread across many budget RVs, including Palomino pop-ups. While appliances are often made by third-party suppliers, owners frequently encounter warranty finger-pointing between manufacturer, dealer, and appliance brand.

• LP leaks and regulators: Some owners describe regulator failures or leaks at quick-connects. Always perform soapy water leak checks after transport.
• Fridge ventilation: In small cabinets, inadequate ventilation can impair absorption fridge performance in hot weather; fan kits and baffles are common owner fixes.
• Ignition reliability: Burner alignment and grounding issues can prevent reliable lighting, especially after bumpy travel.

Explore discussions: Google: Palomino Banshee Propane Problems, RVInsider: Banshee owner problems, and community threads on RVUSA Forum (search “Banshee furnace/fridge”).

Plumbing leaks and fittings

Leaks at push-fit or hand-tightened connections (kitchen faucet, outdoor shower, water pump fittings) are recurring themes. In a tent camper, even small leaks can soak underlayment and lead to delamination or mold, especially after storage.

• Symptoms: Water pump cycling when no faucet is open, damp under-sink cabinetry, and water stains under bunk ends.
• DIY fixes: Many owners replace plastic hand-tight fittings with higher-quality components and add thread sealant. Pressure regulators help prevent stress on fittings.

Owner reports: Reddit r/GoRVing: Banshee plumbing problems and Google: Palomino Banshee Water Pump Issues.

Fit and finish: cabinets, sealant, and fasteners backing out

Common owner complaints involve misaligned cabinet doors, loose screws/staples, gaps in trim, and sealant misses at exterior penetrations. In a folding camper, vibration during towing and frequent raising/lowering accelerate any assembly weaknesses.

• Sealant gaps: Missed dabs at roof accessories and marker lights can become leak vectors.
• Hardware backing out: Owners often re-torque and Loctite fasteners within the first few trips.

Compare model-specific narratives: Google: Palomino Banshee Quality Issues and owner scoring on RVInsider.

Warranty service delays and dealer runaround

The most frustrating pattern reported by owners across many budget RV brands, including Palomino, is delayed service and inconsistent warranty coverage. Complaints describe months-long waits for diagnosis, factory authorization, and parts shipment, with dealers often prioritizing new sales over warranty repairs.

• Common experiences: “We dropped it off in spring and didn’t get it back until late summer,” or “The dealer blamed us for water damage within months of purchase.”
• Documentation is key: Detailed, dated photos and written defect lists submitted immediately after purchase dramatically improve outcomes.
• Escalation: BBB complaints and direct manufacturer escalation sometimes move stalled cases forward.

See patterns and responses: BBB complaints and business responses, general owner complaint hubs like PissedConsumer (search for “Palomino Banshee” and “Palomino RV”), and broader reviews: Google: Palomino Banshee Warranty Complaints.

Independent creators have highlighted these service pitfalls; search this resource for “warranty” and “dealer delays”: Liz Amazing’s RV warranty and service coverage.

Have you encountered months-long delays on your Banshee repairs? Post your Palomino Banshee experience.

“Off-grid” and “off-road” marketing vs. real-world capability

Owners frequently discover that marketing language around “off-grid” is optimistic. Solar “prep” often means a simple port without a controller, the stock battery capacity is limited, and water tank size may be insufficient for extended boondocking. Suspension clearance helps, but the overall structure and components still demand gentle driving and cautious route selection.

• Overpriced options: Bundles may add cosmetic or marginal gear without addressing key weaknesses (battery capacity, tire quality, charging system).
• Actual off-road use: Corrugated roads and ruts can quickly test axle alignment, cabinet fasteners, and lift system integrity.

Reality checks: YouTube: Palomino Banshee Off-Road Review and user feedback: Google: Palomino Banshee Off Grid Issues.

Resale value and depreciation

Pop-up trailers generally depreciate faster than hard-sided RVs, and models with a visible trail of water or lift-system issues can lose value rapidly. Many owners report that private-party buyers scrutinize sealant condition and lift operation; any defects can significantly impact selling price.

• Mitigation: Keep detailed maintenance logs, sealant records, and inspection reports. Prove care to retain value.
• Inspection before listing: A pre-sale inspection can detect issues and speed repair before shoppers walk away.

Considering resale on a Banshee? What happened with your Banshee at resale?

Recalls and safety notices

Check NHTSA for active recalls, Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), and manufacturer communications tied to your exact VIN. Because pop-up lines evolve, the VIN-specific lookup is critical: NHTSA recalls search: Palomino Banshee.

Forest River has issued recalls across various Palomino-branded products over the years (for example, wiring protection, axle fastener torque, LP regulator defects) that may or may not apply to the Banshee configuration and year you’re considering. Verify applicability by VIN and confirm the dealer has completed all recall remedies prior to delivery. If you find an unrepaired recall, require immediate remedy as a condition of purchase.

Also search for video coverage of recall experiences, dealer response, and owner fixes: YouTube search: Palomino Banshee Recall.

Legal and regulatory warnings

Based on complaint patterns around leaks, lift failures, and service delays, the manufacturer and dealers could face legal exposure under:

• Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act (federal): Governs consumer product warranties. If warranty coverage is denied without reasonable basis or repair attempts are unreasonably delayed, owners may seek remedies including attorney fees.
• State Lemon Laws: Some states cover towable RVs; others do not. Even when excluded, state consumer protection laws can address deceptive practices, failure to repair, or misrepresentation of condition.
• Uniform Commercial Code (UCC): Implied warranty of merchantability may apply. If the RV is not fit for ordinary use, remedies may be available.
• FTC and state AG complaints: For deceptive or unfair practices. Patterns of misrepresentation about “off-road” capability or “off-grid readiness” could draw scrutiny if documentation shows significant gaps.
• NHTSA safety defect reporting: Owners can file Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) for defects that pose safety risks (e.g., lift mechanism failures or axle issues causing loss of control).

If you encounter warranty roadblocks, consult an attorney experienced in RV lemon law and warranty litigation. Keep a comprehensive paper trail: purchase agreement, PDI checklist, dated photos, all service orders, and written communications.

Safety and financial impact analysis

From owner reports and forum discussions, the Palomino Banshee’s most consequential risks cluster around water intrusion, lift system reliability, and off-road suspension/axle durability. These issues can produce both safety hazards and major financial losses.

• Safety hazards:
  • Lift system failure: A roof that drops or binds mid-raise can injure occupants and tear canvas in high winds, potentially stranding campers.
  • Axle/tire failures: Blowouts or axle shift at speed threaten control; debris can damage the body and LP lines.
  • Electrical/LP leaks: Wiring chafe and LP regulator issues raise fire risk; repeated transport vibration amplifies risks without vigilant inspection.
• Financial risks:
  • Hidden water damage: Early leaks can undermine bunk-end plywood and roof panels; repairs may exceed resale value.
  • Protracted downtime: Warranty delays mean paying loan, insurance, and storage while the RV sits at the dealer during peak season.
  • Upgrade costs: Many owners invest in better tires, batteries, charging gear, sealants, and hardware shortly after purchase.

To mitigate these risks, insist on an independent pre-purchase inspection and moisture testing. If you already own the unit, schedule a preventive inspection now: Find an RV inspector near you. Did preventive checks save your season? Report your issues and outcomes.

If you already own a Palomino Banshee

• Document everything: Dated photos/video of leaks, lift irregularities, and any damage. Keep a log of attempts to repair and communications.
• Submit a written defect list immediately: Email the dealer and manufacturer. Include photos and a requested resolution timeline.
• Escalate when needed: File a complaint with the BBB: BBB: Palomino Banshee and report safety defects to NHTSA: NHTSA recalls/defect reports.
• Seek second opinions: A qualified mobile tech can diagnose faster than a backed-up dealer. If covered, ask for warranty authorization for third-party repairs.
• Preventive maintenance focus: Quarterly sealant inspection, lift system lubrication/inspection, torque checks on suspension, LP leak checks, and battery capacity testing.
• Community advice: Search forums and owner groups for model-specific repair guides: Good Sam: Banshee repair threads, Reddit: Banshee repairs, and YouTube: repair walkthroughs.

Looking for in-depth consumer tips and how to document your RV case? Investigative creators regularly post best practices—search these resources for “documentation” and “lemon law”: Liz Amazing’s consumer advocacy videos.

Balanced note: any improvements or positives?

Some owners report that once early bugs are addressed—resealing critical points, upgrading tires and batteries, and fine-tuning the lift system—the Banshee can serve as a nimble, budget-conscious camping platform. Lightweight towability and compact storage are undeniable advantages, especially for smaller vehicles or driveway storage limitations. There are also reports of helpful dealers who perform thorough PDIs and quickly resolve issues when pressed with documentation.

That said, improvements tend to rely on owner diligence and aftermarket upgrades. The core risk factors—water management, lift reliability, and service delays—remain recurring themes in the public record. Prospective buyers should plan and budget accordingly.

How to verify claims and dig deeper

• YouTube: Palomino Banshee Problems
• Google: Palomino Banshee Problems
• BBB: Palomino Banshee
• Reddit r/rvs: Palomino Banshee Problems
• Reddit r/RVLiving: Palomino Banshee Problems
• Good Sam: Palomino Banshee Problems
• RVInsider: Palomino Banshee Problems
• NHTSA: Palomino Banshee Recalls/TSBs
• Owner groups via Google: Find Palomino Banshee Facebook Groups

As you research, keep notes and screenshots of any complaints that mirror the unit you’re considering. Cross-check the model year and floorplan to identify recurring defects.

Alternatives and final recommendation

If you need a compact camper with some rough-road capability, consider comparing the Banshee to other off-road pop-up or small hard-sided alternatives, including models with:

• All-aluminum or composite construction to reduce water damage risk.
• Factory-installed lithium-ready charging systems and quality tires.
• Documented dealer PDIs and service capacity (ask for proof of technician staffing and average repair turnaround times).

Given the weight of public complaints about water intrusion, lift system issues, and slow warranty/service response affecting the Palomino Banshee line, we do not recommend this model for buyers unwilling to perform thorough pre-purchase inspections, immediate post-delivery remediation, and ongoing preventive maintenance. Risk-averse shoppers should compare other brands/models with stronger owner-reported QC and service records before committing.

Have you owned or shopped a Banshee recently? Tell future buyers what you learned.

Comments from owners and shoppers

We welcome first-hand experiences to help other RVers make informed decisions. What issues did you encounter? How did the manufacturer or dealer respond? Which fixes worked, and what would you do differently?