Palomino-Solaire Expandable RV Exposed: Water Intrusion, QC Misses & Warranty Delays

Introduction and Model Reputation

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. The Palomino SolAire Expandable sits within Forest River’s lightweight, hybrid “expandable” travel trailer segment, known for hard-sided bodies with fold-out canvas bed ends to keep weight and price down. On paper, it offers appealing features for families who want more sleeping capacity without a heavier towable. In practice, owner experiences vary widely. While some owners report acceptable performance for weekend use, a notable and recurring pattern of build-quality issues, water intrusion, warranty obstacles, and slow service has emerged across reviews, forums, BBB complaints, and recall data searches. This report consolidates those patterns to help shoppers understand true risk areas before they buy.

Want to see how independent creators scrutinize RV build quality? Consider searching the channel investigations here: Liz Amazing’s RV industry exposés. She regularly shows practical inspection tips and red flags to look for. Also, have you owned a SolAire Expandable? Add your experience to help other shoppers.

Where to Find Unfiltered Owner Feedback and Documentation

• Google Reviews and owner threads: Start with a broad search: Google search: Palomino SolAire Expandable Problems.
• BBB (Better Business Bureau): Complaints often detail warranty and service delays: BBB search for Palomino SolAire Expandable.
• Reddit communities: Long-form owner discussions are invaluable:
  • r/rvs: Palomino SolAire Expandable Problems
  • r/RVLiving: Palomino SolAire Expandable Problems
  • r/GoRVing: Palomino SolAire Expandable Problems
• Facebook owner groups (join multiple groups for candid feedback): Use this search and request to join several communities: Google: Palomino SolAire Expandable Facebook Groups.
• NHTSA recalls: Confirm open recalls: NHTSA recall search: Palomino SolAire Expandable.
• Owner review databases and forums:
  • RVInsider: Palomino SolAire Expandable Problems
  • RVUSA Forum (search “Palomino SolAire Expandable Problems”)
  • RVForums.com (use the search bar)
  • RVForum.net (use site search)
  • Good Sam Community: Palomino SolAire Expandable Problems
  • For PissedConsumer, go here and search “Palomino SolAire Expandable”: PissedConsumer main reviews page
• Video evidence and walkthroughs: Scan YouTube owner uploads: YouTube: Palomino SolAire Expandable Problems

For investigative consumer commentary on modern RV manufacturing practices, see Liz Amazing’s channel and use its search to look up the exact model you’re considering.

Before You Buy: Make a Third-Party Inspection Non-Negotiable

Independent, pre-delivery inspections are often the only leverage consumers have before signing paperwork. Many owners report dealers promising to “take care of it after the sale,” only to discover long service queues, hard parts-to-get, and weeks to months of lost camping time. Hire a certified mobile inspector or NRVIA inspector to perform a comprehensive PDI and document everything in writing—including moisture readings, underbelly checks, slide function tests, LP leak tests, and electrical analysis. Use a local query to find options: Google search: RV Inspectors near me. If you don’t address defects before taking possession, dealers may push you to the back of the line after they have your money.

As you research and inspect, watch real-world RV defect breakdowns to calibrate expectations: Liz Amazing’s investigations into RV quality. And please share what you find in your inspection so other shoppers can learn.

Recurring Build and Materials Defects Reported by Owners

Water Intrusion at Tent Ends, Roof and Seams

Expandable hybrids are inherently vulnerable to water ingress because of canvas bed ends, multiple seals, and folding mechanisms. Owners of the Palomino SolAire Expandable repeatedly flag:

• Leaking tent-end corners and hinge lines during heavy rain or when towing in wet conditions, leading to wet mattresses and mildew risk.
• Roof seam and front cap seal failures that allow slow, hidden water intrusion, later discovered as soft spots or staining.
• Compromised storage hatches and window seals that drip during storms or washing.

See documented complaints and troubleshooting threads:
Google: Palomino SolAire Expandable Water Leaks,
YouTube: SolAire Expandable leak walkthroughs,
and Reddit r/rvs: water leak problems.

Slide-Out Leaks, Alignment, and Mechanism Issues

Multiple owners report slide seals that fail to shed water, wiper seals that invert, and slides that bind or go out of sync. On some units, slide water finds its way under flooring or into cabinetry.

• Seal maintenance burden: Frequent resealing/conditioning is needed more than new owners expect.
• Mechanism hiccups: Slides sometimes stop mid-travel, requiring manual override or dealer service.
• Water trails: Rainwater can track inside at corners if the rig is not perfectly level or seals are improperly installed.

Cross-check experiences: Google: SolAire Expandable slide-out problems and YouTube: Slide leak examples. Discussion also appears across Good Sam forums and RVInsider owner reviews.

Delamination, Soft Floors, and Underbelly Moisture

Delamination (wall bubbles), spongy floors, and saturated underbelly insulation are frequent downstream effects of small leaks that go undetected. Even minor water intrusion, especially near bed-ends or roof seams, can wick through fasteners and compromise substrates.

• Warranty friction: Owners report being told water damage is “maintenance-related,” leading to denied claims even on newer units.
• Hidden spread: Moisture can travel beyond the visible drip point, complicating repairs.

Review owner accounts: Google: SolAire Expandable delamination problems and Reddit r/RVLiving: soft floor threads.

Sealant Failures, Gaps, and QC Misses

Fresh-from-factory units are often delivered with inconsistent sealant application around roof fixtures, baggage doors, and beltline moldings. Several owners note missing screws, loose trim, or rough cut-outs behind cosmetic panels.

• Dealer prep inconsistency: Some dealers perform thorough PDIs and address sealant gaps; others push the job back on owners.
• High-maintenance reality: These units require regular sealant inspections (90 days recommended) to avoid costly damage.

Scan user reports: Google: sealant issues — Palomino SolAire Expandable and YouTube: SolAire Expandable quality issues.

Window, Door, and Hatch Misalignment

Owners report entrance doors that rub frames, baggage hatches that won’t latch, and windows that drip because weep holes are blocked or trim is mis-seated. These are classic QC issues often caught in a good PDI but frustrating if discovered after delivery.

Evidence threads: Google: door/hatch problems — Palomino SolAire Expandable and RVInsider: SolAire Expandable complaints.

Chassis, Axle, and Weight-Related Risks

Tire Wear, Axle Alignment, and Suspension

Uneven tire wear, bent axles from curb strikes, and leaf-spring bushing failures are shared across lightweight travel trailers. For the SolAire Expandable, owners also report premature tire wear and alignment challenges, sometimes discovered only after blowouts or vibration.

• Factory alignment can be off; insist on alignment verification and tire date codes at delivery.
• Underspec’d tires or running close to weight limits exacerbate heat buildup and wear.

Cross-reference: Google: axle/tire problems — Palomino SolAire Expandable and Reddit r/GoRVing: tire wear reports.

Weight Labels, Cargo Capacity, and Overloading

Travel trailers sometimes ship with optimistic cargo-carrying capacity (CCC), especially once common options are installed. Misunderstanding actual payload invites suspension stress, braking issues, and tire failure. Owners also note confusion over dry weights versus as-delivered reality. A few Forest River-brand recalls historically involved labeling inaccuracies, so verifying stickers and scale weights is critical.

• Weigh your rig: CAT scale tickets can reveal how close you are to GAWR/GCWR limits.
• Respect tongue weight: Improper distribution contributes to sway and instability.

Research background: Google: weight label/CCC concerns and confirm recall info here: NHTSA recall search — Palomino SolAire Expandable.

Frame Flex and Bumper Loads

Reports include rear bumper weld concerns and frame flex when heavy cargo carriers or bikes are added, especially on rough roads. Some owners warn against exceeding light-duty bumper ratings—risking cracks or failures.

See related issues: Google: frame cracks/flex — Palomino SolAire Expandable.

Electrical, Propane, and HVAC Performance

12V Wiring, Converter, and Fuse Panel Issues

Owners document intermittent 12V issues, loose wire nuts, and converter failures that lead to battery charging problems or lights flickering. Some GFCI trips stem from wiring gremlins discovered during inspections.

Cross-check user troubleshooting: Google: electrical problems — Palomino SolAire Expandable and YouTube: electrical issue demos.

Furnace/AC Limitations and Temperature Extremes in Tent Ends

Hybrid expandables struggle with climate control in hot/cold weather. Owners report condensation in bunk ends, underpowered AC on humid days, and difficulty holding heat below freezing.

• Insulation reality: Canvas bunk ends are weak points; thermal covers help but aren’t a cure-all.
• Airflow balancing: Ducting sometimes favors main cabin, leaving bed ends uncomfortable.

Owner advice threads: Reddit r/RVLiving: AC/heating struggles and Good Sam: condensation tips.

Propane System, Quick-Connects, and CO/LP Detectors

LP leaks are rare but serious. Across the towable market (including Palomino), recalls have addressed quick-connect fittings, regulator defects, and detector problems. Owners report detector false alarms and sensitive sensors—but also note units where fittings needed tightening from the factory.

Always perform LP leak-down tests during inspection and verify detector dates. Review recall status: NHTSA: Palomino SolAire Expandable recalls and search owner discussions: Google: propane issues — Palomino SolAire Expandable.

Appliances and Components: Spotty Reliability

Refrigerator Performance (Absorption Units)

Common complaints involve absorption fridges struggling in heat, off-level operation causing faults, and slow cool-downs. Ventilation and fans help, but owners still report food-spoilage during summer trips.

Owner reports: Google: refrigerator problems and Reddit r/rvs: fridge issues.

Water Heater and Plumbing Leaks

Reports include fittings dripping under sinks, PEX connections needing re-crimp, and water heaters with soot or ignition issues. Small leaks can saturate wood and underbelly insulation fast.

See troubleshooting: Google: plumbing leaks — Palomino SolAire Expandable and YouTube: water heater problems.

Power Awnings, Arms, and Fabric

Owners mention awning arms loosening, motor failures, and fabric pooling water. Some industry-wide recalls over the years have addressed awning components; verify your specific unit’s parts and recall status.

Research examples: Google: awning problems — Palomino SolAire Expandable and NHTSA recall search.

Warranty, Service Backlogs, and Dealer Experience

Long Repair Queues and Parts Delays

A consistent pattern among SolAire owners (and many towable buyers) is multi-week or multi-month waits for service appointments and parts. Trips are canceled and units sit at dealerships during peak season. This makes pre-delivery punch lists critical; once you’ve paid, your urgency often falls.

• Document every defect at delivery with photos and written addendums.
• Ask for parts in advance: Dealers sometimes wait to order until a tech confirms the issue—adding weeks.

Check BBB narratives for timelines: BBB: Palomino SolAire Expandable and scan owner reports: Google: warranty delays. If you’ve faced months-long delays, add your timeline in the comments to warn others.

Warranty Coverage Disputes

Consumers frequently cite denials for water damage (“maintenance issue”), certain appliances (“vendor warranty”), and cosmetic concerns (“within spec”). Owners report feeling ping-ponged between dealer, OEM, and third-party suppliers.

See experiences: RVInsider: warranty problems — SolAire Expandable and Reddit r/rvs: warranty complaints.

Pricing, Options, and Value Concerns

Overpriced Packages vs. Real-World Durability

Buyers often pay for “premium” packages or add-ons but still report basic assembly defects and component failures. The value proposition deteriorates quickly if you must invest in resealing, tire upgrades, and aftermarket fixes within the first year.

Research value sentiment: Google: overpriced/value concerns — Palomino SolAire Expandable.

Depreciation and Resale Difficulty After Leaks

Trailers with documented leaks, delamination, or soft floors can suffer steep resale hits. Prospective buyers search forums and inspect moisture—any stains can crush trade-in offers.

See owner resale stories: Reddit r/GoRVing: resale experiences.

Legal and Regulatory Warnings

Allegations of warranty denials on apparent defects, safety hazards (e.g., LP leaks, axle/tire failures), and mislabeling have potential legal implications. Consumers should understand:

• Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act: Requires clear warranty terms and prohibits deceptive practices. If a covered defect isn’t repaired within a reasonable number of attempts or time, you may have federal and state remedies.
• State Lemon Laws: Coverage varies; many states’ lemon laws are weaker for towables. Still, state consumer protection statutes and implied warranties (merchantability/fitness) may apply.
• NHTSA: Safety-related defects and recalls fall under NHTSA. File a complaint if you encounter serious safety failures: NHTSA search/reporting hub.
• FTC and State Attorneys General: Deceptive marketing or systemic warranty non-compliance can be reported to the FTC and your state’s AG.

Maintain a paper trail: dated photos, service orders, emails, and inspection reports. If necessary, consult a consumer-law attorney versed in RV warranty disputes.

Product and Safety Impact Analysis

Based on patterns across complaints and forums, the most consequential risk areas for the Palomino SolAire Expandable are water intrusion, structural degradation (soft floors/delamination), and safety-related component failures (tires/axles/LP systems). These are not mere inconveniences; they can materially affect safety and finances:

• Safety hazards: LP leaks risk fire; tire blowouts at highway speeds can cause crashes; electrical shorts can spark fires.
• Structural integrity: Water damage undermines floor and wall structure, leading to hazardous soft spots and expensive rebuilds.
• Financial risk: Extended service delays ruin trips and add storage/loan costs; resale value tanks once leaks are documented.

Shoppers should assume a high maintenance burden. If your camping will include severe weather, long trips, or long-term storage outdoors, risk exposure increases and proactive mitigation (roof inspections, bunk-end covers, upgraded tires, dehumidification, regular torque/seal checks) becomes critical.

What to Check During an Independent Inspection

Use this checklist during a third-party PDI. Hire a pro if you’re not comfortable; here’s a local search: Find RV inspectors near you.

• Moisture readings around roof seams, tent-end hinges, bed-end corners, slide corners, and under windows.
• Canvas/bunk-end inspection: Stitching, seals, latching surfaces; flood with hose test while someone checks inside.
• Roof and sealant: Every penetration; lap seal continuity; edges/beltline; front cap transitions.
• Underbelly: Remove a section to inspect insulation for dampness; check frame welds and hanger alignment.
• Axles/tires: Tread wear pattern; tire DOT date codes; verify alignment and equal axle spacing.
• Weight verification: Confirm VIN sticker weights vs. actual scale tickets (if possible) and CCC with your gear.
• Electrical: Converter output, battery health, GFCI function, load test under AC + microwave + water heater.
• LP system: Pressure test, leak-down; regulator and quick-connect checks; verify detector age and function.
• Slide operations: Multiple cycles; water hose test; look for debris, seal roll, or binding.
• Plumbing: Pressurize and inspect all fittings; run hot water, test water heater ignition, check for drips.
• Awnings: Extend/retract; check arm bolts and fabric tension; simulate wind gusts with caution.

Consider recording the entire inspection. Ask the dealer to sign a punch list committing to repairs before final payment. If you’ve identified defects that the dealer initially minimized, post your findings to help other buyers.

Brief Notes on Improvements and Positive Reports

Some SolAire Expandable owners report satisfactory performance after addressing initial punch-list items. Positive notes include lighter towing compared to full hard-sided trailers of similar sleeping capacity and family-friendly floorplans. Anecdotally, owners who store indoors, maintain seals diligently, and limit use to fair-weather weekends report fewer issues. There are also reports of warranty fixes completed efficiently by responsive dealers—though experiences vary widely by retailer and region. If you find a dealer known for rigorous PDIs, that can make a substantial difference. For broader expectations-setting, watch independent reviews like industry deep-dives by Liz Amazing and then search her channel for your exact model.

How to Escalate and Protect Yourself if Problems Arise

• Document: Photos, dates, mileage/hours, ambient conditions; keep all receipts and work orders.
• Escalate in writing: Send certified letters to dealer and manufacturer summarizing defects and requested remedies.
• Regulatory reports: File safety-related complaints at NHTSA if applicable; consider FTC or state AG for warranty concerns.
• Mediation or legal counsel: If repairs drag on, consult a consumer-law attorney about Magnuson-Moss or state claims.
• Community leverage: Posting documented timelines in owner groups can encourage faster responses. Also browse:
  BBB complaint records,
  RVInsider complaints,
  and YouTube owner reports.

If you’ve navigated a successful resolution (or hit a wall), what worked for you? Your steps can save another family’s camping season.

Evidence Links and Further Research

• Google: Palomino SolAire Expandable Problems (broad overview)
• YouTube: Owner videos and issue walkthroughs
• BBB search: warranty/service complaints
• Reddit r/rvs: aggregated issues
• NHTSA: recall lookups
• RVInsider: model-specific owner reviews
• Good Sam Community: issue threads

Key Takeaways for Shoppers

• Expect a punch list: Many units require immediate fixes. Your only leverage is before final payment.
• Water is the enemy: Hybrid tent-ends increase leak risk. Rigorously test for moisture and reseal frequently.
• Service wait times are real: Plan backup camping options in case your trailer is in the shop during peak season.
• Verify recall status: Check NHTSA by VIN and confirm with your dealer.
• Budget for upgrades: Tires, sealants, bunk-end insulation, surge protection, and dehumidification can mitigate common issues.
• Use a professional inspector: Find RV Inspectors near me and require a written punch list before signing.

Have a tip, complaint, or success story on the SolAire Expandable? Share your firsthand report so others can weigh the risks.

Final Verdict

The Palomino SolAire Expandable attracts buyers with its sleeping capacity and tow-friendly weight, but public owner reports show a persistent pattern of leak vulnerabilities at tent ends and seams, inconsistent factory QC, slide and seal issues, and prolonged warranty/parts delays. These issues are not unique to this model, but the hybrid design amplifies the consequences of any sealing or assembly misstep. Shoppers who store indoors, camp fair-weather, and are meticulous about seal maintenance may find acceptable value—provided the unit passes a rigorous pre-delivery inspection and the selling dealer is known for strong post-sale support. However, for families expecting reliable all-weather performance and minimal maintenance, risk exposure is high compared to fully hard-sided alternatives.

Based on the weight of owner complaints, service backlogs, and water-intrusion risks documented across public sources, we do not recommend the Palomino SolAire Expandable for most buyers. Consider better-reviewed hard-sided travel trailers from other brands or different models within the segment that demonstrate stronger QC and dealer support records.

If you’ve owned or inspected a SolAire Expandable, what did we miss? Your experiences help inform the next buyer standing on a lot, pen in hand.