Panoramic RV Exposed: QC Problems, Lithium Power Pitfalls, Leaks, Service Delays, Recalls

Introduction: How This Report Was Compiled and What Shoppers Should Know

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. The goal is to help RV shoppers scrutinize Panoramic RV with clear eyes—before investing in a premium-priced Class B camper van. Panoramic RV is a boutique Canadian manufacturer based in Québec that builds compact, upscale Class B motorhomes on the Ram ProMaster 3500 chassis. The company is best known for modern interiors, large windows (the “panoramic” look), and off-grid packages centered around lithium batteries and solar. As a small builder, Panoramic RV appeals to buyers who want a hand-crafted feel and a less “mass production” alternative to larger brands.

However, niche manufacturers present a mixed picture for consumers. While some owners praise workmanship and design touches, others report inconsistent quality control, thin dealer and service networks, and long wait times for parts and warranty repairs. Because Panoramic RV’s products are built on the Ram ProMaster platform, owners also inherit any chassis-wide recalls and safety issues from Stellantis (Ram), adding an extra layer of diligence for shoppers. Public complaints are not as numerous as large-brand datasets, but recurring themes emerge across forums, Google reviews, BBB search pages, and social communities. Where applicable below, you’ll find links to search resources that can help you verify specific issues and find first-hand owner experiences.

Models, Product Lines, and Ownership

Panoramic RV primarily focuses on a single Class B model built on the Ram ProMaster 3500 extended chassis. Floorplan and equipment variations tend to be offered via option packages rather than distinct model names. Common variations include:

• Two-seat vs. four-seat configurations (extra belted positions in the lounge)
• Bed layout options (e.g., twin-to-king conversions)
• Off-grid packages (lithium battery banks, solar, upgraded inverters, DC-DC charging)
• Cold-weather packages (heated tanks, insulated lines, and winterization features)

Based on public information, Panoramic RV is an independent, privately held Canadian brand and is not part of a large RV conglomerate. As always, confirm current details directly with the manufacturer or an authorized dealer before buying.

Owner Communities and Where to Research First-Hand Complaints

Before you go further, immerse yourself in unfiltered owner feedback. Search and join multiple brand-focused groups and forums to see photos, repair logs, parts wait times, and how the company responds to problems:

• Facebook brand groups: Use this Google search, then join several groups to compare experiences: Panoramic RV Facebook groups (Google search)
• General forum threads:
  • RVInsider: Panoramic RV Problems
  • Good Sam Community: Panoramic RV Problems
  • Reddit r/rvs: Panoramic RV Problems
  • Reddit r/RVLiving: Panoramic RV Problems
  • Reddit r/GoRVing: Panoramic RV Problems
  • RVForums.com (use site search for “Panoramic RV problems”)
  • RVForum.net (use site search for “Panoramic RV problems”)
  • RVUSA Forum (search for “Panoramic RV problems”)
• Better Business Bureau search page for business records or complaints: BBB search: Panoramic RV
• Google search snapshots of broader sentiment: Google: “Panoramic RV Problems”
• YouTube for real-world walk-throughs and owner complaint videos: YouTube: Panoramic RV Problems
• PissedConsumer’s main directory (enter brand and topic manually): PissedConsumer (search manually for “Panoramic RV”)

Independent advocates like Liz Amazing provide critical consumer education about common RV pitfalls across brands. Search her channel for your specific brand and issues: Liz Amazing on YouTube (consumer exposes and buying traps).

Why a Third-Party RV Inspection Is Your Only Real Leverage

Before you sign anything or accept delivery, arrange a third-party inspection by an RVIA-certified or NRVIA-certified inspector. It’s your only leverage. Once the dealer and manufacturer have your money, many consumers report getting pushed to the back of the service queue, leaving them with cancelled trips, storage fees, and the stress of an unusable coach waiting months for parts or warranty authorization.

• Book an inspection early: Search: RV Inspectors near me
• Ask for a comprehensive written report that includes moisture readings (walls, ceiling, floor), roof and sealant mapping, AC/DC electrical testing under load, plumbing pressure tests, and real-world boondock “systems run” (inverter, solar, DC-DC charging).
• Make delivery contingent on defects being corrected. Put it in writing with a firm timeline and remedies if not completed (including the right to reject delivery).

If you’ve owned a Panoramic RV, what did your PDI reveal, and how quickly were faults addressed? Tell other shoppers in the comments.

Patterns in Consumer Complaints and Risk Areas

While Panoramic RV produces at boutique volumes, public feedback still surfaces recurring issues familiar to many Class B owners. Use the search links to verify specifics and locate owner-posted photos, invoices, and repair timelines:

• Google search: Panoramic RV problems
• YouTube search: Panoramic RV problems
• BBB search: Panoramic RV
• RVInsider search: Panoramic RV problems

Build Quality and Workmanship Variability

Reports from various Class B owners (including boutique brands) commonly cite interior fit-and-finish problems and inconsistent quality control. For Panoramic RV, shoppers should scrutinize:

• Cabinetry and fasteners: loose screws, hinges coming out of thin substrate, and latches misaligned so doors pop open in transit.
• Sealants: exterior caulking that looks clean at delivery but separates after road vibration or sun exposure, risking leaks.
• Rattles and squeaks: cabinetry and bed platforms that vibrate over rough roads; noticeable at highway speeds and on washboard surfaces.
• Sliding door, windows, and hardware: misalignment or adjustments needed; screens and shades that snag, bind, or fray quickly.

Consumers frequently post videos on YouTube and forums documenting these issues shortly after delivery. See: YouTube: Panoramic RV Problems, Good Sam: Panoramic RV Problems, and Reddit r/rvs: Panoramic RV Problems. For a broader education on how small defects cascade into big problems, browse consumer advocacy videos on Liz Amazing’s channel and search for the brand you’re considering.

Chassis Recalls and Safety Dependencies on Ram ProMaster

Panoramic RV builds on the Ram ProMaster, so owners inherit chassis-related recalls from Stellantis. Depending on model year, this may include issues with airbags, seatbelts, backup cameras, brake systems, and transmission controls. While the conversion work is performed by Panoramic RV, chassis campaigns and parts availability are governed by Ram dealers, which can delay repairs if parts are constrained or if the vehicle’s RV conversion complicates scheduling.

• Backup camera/Uconnect glitches: intermittent rear-view camera failures impair visibility while maneuvering a long van.
• Transmission linkage concerns: reported shifter cable detachment or control-module faults on some ProMaster years, leading to rollaway risk or non-engagement.
• Airbag and seatbelt recalls: possible restraint non-compliance or defective modules on certain chassis build windows.
• ABS/ESC modules: sensor or module issues that can compromise braking performance or stability control.

Verify recall applicability by VIN through official channels. Start with these recall resources and search pages (note: results are brand- and VIN-dependent): NHTSA recall search, plus broad owner reports on Google, Reddit r/rvs, and YouTube.

Electrical System Integration and Lithium Bank Reliability

Many boutique Class B builders, including Panoramic RV, market powerful lithium battery systems with DC-DC alternator charging, roof solar, and large inverters. Owner-reported problem areas—especially within the first year—include:

• Battery management system (BMS) shutdowns: packs going into fault due to low temperatures, sustained high loads, or improper charging profiles.
• Alternator overtaxing: insufficient DC-DC regulation or thermal protection can lead to alternator overheating during long charge cycles.
• Subpar wiring practices: inadequate cable gauge, loose lugs, or poorly crimped terminals causing voltage drop, heat, and intermittent failures.
• Inverter/charger misconfiguration: incorrect charge curves or equalization settings for the specific battery brand installed.
• Solar expectations vs. reality: marketing claims around “off-grid capability” that don’t match consumption patterns (AC use, induction cooking, winter camping).

Electrical issues are a major source of trip-ending failures and in some cases present a fire risk if overcurrent protection is misapplied. Search owner videos and repair threads here: YouTube, RVInsider, and Good Sam Community. For an independent overview of how lithium integrations fail across brands, search Panoramic or “Class B lithium” on Liz Amazing’s channel.

Plumbing, Leaks, and “Four-Season” Claims

As a Canadian brand, Panoramic RV often emphasizes cold-weather usability. Real-world reports across Class B communities suggest consumers should treat any “four-season” claim with caution. Frequent trouble spots include:

• PEX and push-fit connections: drips behind cabinetry, under sinks, and at the water heater after vibration or thermal cycling.
• Tank and line exposure: partially exposed lines, valves, or fittings that freeze during shoulder-season camping despite “heated” marketing language.
• Shower and wet bath sealing: hairline gaps in sealant causing slow leaks into wall or floor substrates.
• Vent condensation: inadequate vapor management leading to mold/mildew odors in winter conditions.

Conduct pressure and thermal tests during your inspection and ask for exact routing of freshwater, grey, and black lines. Verify whether the manufacturer will warrant freeze damage under normal “winter camping” usage. See owner discussions via Google, Reddit r/RVLiving, and YouTube. If you’ve winter-camped in a Panoramic unit, what worked and what failed?

Dealer Delivery, Punch Lists, and Post-Sale Support

Because Panoramic RV is a small builder, warranty support can hinge on dealer competence and the factory’s parts pipeline. Public complaints about boutique brands consistently mention:

• Inadequate pre-delivery inspection (PDI): consumer finds dozens of issues in the first weeks that the dealer failed to catch.
• Service queue delays: after payment, customers report being “de-prioritized,” with repairs taking months due to parts or authorization lag.
• Cross-border headaches: U.S. owners of Canadian-built coaches sometimes struggle to get timely parts or factory support via U.S. dealers.
• Communication gaps: slow responses, unclear timelines, and shifting explanations while the RV sits idle at a dealership.

Browse first-hand reports on BBB search results, Google search, and RVInsider. For a step-by-step PDI checklist and buyer leverage tips, seek third-party guidance from consumer advocates like Liz Amazing. Also consider booking a second, independent PDI the day of delivery: Search: RV inspectors near me.

Value and Pricing: Are You Paying More Than You’re Getting?

Panoramic RV’s boutique nature and premium component lists can drive high MSRP figures. Consumers should weigh pricing against:

• Depreciation trajectory of Class B vans versus used prices of competitors like Winnebago, Pleasure-Way, Coachmen, and others.
• Option upcharges for lithium, solar, and interior finishes that may be more cost-effective when spec’d aftermarket by specialists.
• Warranty coverage and the real cost of post-sale support if you live far from the factory or an experienced dealer.
• Resale appeal in your region; niche brands can be harder to sell quickly outside of major RV markets.

Scan asking prices, days-on-market, and owner commentary to gauge value: Google, RVInsider, and Good Sam Community. If you’ve negotiated a Panoramic RV purchase, what discounts or concessions did you get?

Parts Availability and Supply Chain Delays

Owners of boutique-brand vans widely report delays securing replacement parts (trim, window hardware, bespoke cabinetry, custom cushions, proprietary panels). When the part is unique to the manufacturer, lead times can stretch for weeks or months, immobilizing the coach if the component is critical.

• Ask which components are proprietary vs. off-the-shelf (Dometic, Truma, Victron, Webasto). Favor mainstream components for easier serviceability.
• Get written timelines for replacement parts and a list of authorized service centers willing to work on conversion-specific parts.

Owner threads on Reddit and forums describe parts bottlenecks across many small builders; verify Panoramic-specific experiences via Reddit r/rvs and RVForums.com (use site search). If you’ve waited for parts, how long did it take and who helped resolve it?

Water Intrusion and Roof/Wall Penetrations

Water is the arch-enemy of every RV. Leaks around roof fans, solar cable glands, marker lights, and windows can lead to rot, delamination, mold, and electrical faults. Boutique builds may look meticulously sealed at delivery, but vibrations, UV exposure, and seasonal expansion/contraction can open pathways for intrusion.

• Inspect every penetration with a moisture meter pre-delivery and again after first rain trips.
• Document sealant condition quarterly and maintain a photo log to protect your warranty claim trail.

For photo evidence and remediation guides, consult owner posts via Google: Panoramic RV Water Leaks and broad discussions in Good Sam Community. You can also find walkthroughs of leak tracing and fixes on YouTube.

Heating, Cooling, and Real-World Off-Grid Performance

Marketing often highlights efficient space heating, robust air conditioning on battery, and quiet off-grid operation. In practice, owners across many brands report:

• Short AC runtime on battery alone: a few hours at best unless you have a very large lithium bank; high-heat climates strain systems quickly.
• Diesel or gasoline heaters: ignition faults, carbon buildup, and intake/exhaust placement that limits performance at altitude.
• Thermal bridging: metal van bodies lose heat rapidly; condensation forms at framing, windows, and door seals.

Ask the seller for measured duty cycles and “worst-case” assumptions. Search for owner-measured data and not just brochure claims: YouTube, RVInsider, and Google.

Legal and Regulatory Warnings for Shoppers

Consumer reports of unresolved defects, warranty denials, or delayed safety repairs can raise legal questions. Buyers should understand the following frameworks:

• U.S. Federal Warranty Law (Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act): Requires clear written warranties and prohibits deceptive warranty practices. If warranty service is delayed unreasonably or denied improperly, you may have legal recourse.
• State RV Lemon Laws: Some U.S. states cover motorhomes; others exclude living quarters. Even where lemon laws are limited, consumer protection statutes and breach-of-warranty claims may apply.
• FTC and State Attorneys General: Misrepresentations in advertising (e.g., “four-season” or “off-grid” claims) can be investigated as unfair/deceptive acts.
• Canada: Provincial Sale of Goods Acts and consumer protection statutes imply fitness for purpose and merchantable quality. Document defects and repair attempts promptly; Transport Canada may address safety defects on chassis-related issues.
• NHTSA Recalls: Safety defects on the Ram ProMaster must be remedied at no charge. Track recall campaigns by VIN and keep proof of attempted scheduling if parts are delayed. Start here: NHTSA recall portal.

Keep a meticulous paper trail: purchase contract, warranty booklet, repair orders with dates and mileage, photos/video, and written communications. If you must escalate, consult an attorney experienced in RV warranty claims. Community examples of legal escalations can sometimes be found via BBB searches and long-form owner accounts on Reddit or YouTube. Have you pursued a warranty claim with Panoramic RV? Share the outcome to help others.

Safety and Financial Risk Analysis

Based on patterns visible across boutique Class B brands (and applicable to Panoramic RV shoppers), the primary risk categories are:

• Safety Risks
  • Chassis recall defects: brake, airbag, camera, or transmission issues can lead to collisions, injuries, or rollaway incidents.
  • Electrical hazards: overheating cables, improper fusing, or inverter faults can cause smoke events or fires—especially in high-draw scenarios like air conditioning or induction cooking.
  • Water intrusion: leaks can lead to hidden mold that compromises air quality; wet electrical components increase shock/fire risk.
• Financial Risks
  • Warranty downtime: months awaiting parts or authorization translate to lost use during prime season.
  • Out-of-pocket travel: towing, hotel stays, storage, and secondary transportation while the RV is down.
  • Depreciation: boutique brands can suffer steep depreciation if market conditions soften or demand is regional.

To mitigate these risks, lock down a robust inspection, insist on defect remediation in writing before possession, and pressure-test claims (battery runtime, heating performance, and cold-weather protection) yourself. Schedule a trial overnight on dealer premises or at a nearby campground to validate systems under real loads. Consider retaining an inspector to supervise your delivery day: Find RV inspectors near you.

How to Verify and Document Panoramic RV-Specific Issues

Because Panoramic RV produces at boutique volumes, you’ll need to be methodical in gathering brand-specific data. Start here:

• Google: Panoramic RV Problems (broader owner commentary and images)
• YouTube: Panoramic RV Problems (walkthroughs, defect demonstrations, repair diaries)
• BBB search results (business profiles, complaint patterns)
• RVInsider search (owner ratings; look for common themes)
• Good Sam Community search (long-form owner threads)
• Reddit r/rvs search results (unfiltered feedback, DIY fixes)
• NHTSA recall portal (check your VIN after you identify a specific unit)

When you evaluate a unit on a dealer lot, record video of all systems under operation. Document serial numbers for critical components (batteries, inverters, heaters, fridge). If you later need warranty support, this baseline saves time and strengthens your case.

Common Consumer Narratives to Watch For

Owner narratives—across social platforms and review sites—tend to fall into recognizable categories. When researching Panoramic RV, look for these patterns and compare timelines:

• The “trip-killer” failure: A critical system (electrical, water pump, heater) fails on the first or second trip; the dealer can’t schedule timely service; the season is lost.
• The “parts purgatory” saga: A bespoke part cracks or malfunctions; replacements are factory-only; weeks stretch into months with little communication.
• The “PDI regret” story: Owner skipped an independent PDI; post-delivery defects multiply; the dealer now treats them as a low priority after the sale.
• The “marketing vs. reality” complaint: Promised off-grid AC runtime or winter performance doesn’t match real-world tests; owner feels misled.

Scan for these narratives in YouTube videos, RVInsider entries, Good Sam Community threads, and BBB search results. If one of these happened to you, add your timeline and resolution—it’s invaluable to other shoppers.

Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) Checklist Highlights

Use or adapt these PDI points for a Panoramic RV unit:

• Exterior
  • Roof: inspect all penetrations; feel for soft spots; photograph sealant.
  • Windows and doors: water test with hose; check for interior moisture.
  • Body and trim: ensure no rubbing panels; test awning deployment and retraction.
• Electrical (12V/120V)
  • Load test lithium bank; verify inverter output under microwave/induction use.
  • Confirm DC-DC charge rate from alternator; monitor temps for 20+ minutes.
  • Solar charge verification in full sun; compare expected vs. measured amps.
  • GFCI and breaker trip tests; label confirmation.
• Plumbing
  • Pressurize to spec; check each fitting with dry tissue for seepage.
  • Shower pan and wet bath door seals; check for pooling/egress.
  • Water heater function (all modes); sanitization bypass operation.
• HVAC
  • Heater startup from cold; continuous run for 30 minutes; watch for faults.
  • Air conditioner on inverter: time how long it runs before battery low cutoff.
• Chassis
  • Scan for open recalls by VIN; obtain written confirmation of campaign status.
  • Road test at highway speeds; listen for conversion-related rattles.

What Panoramic RV Appears to Do Well (and Where They’ve Improved)

To remain objective, it’s fair to note strengths often mentioned by boutique-brand owners and reviewers:

• Design aesthetics: clean, modern interiors and large-window ambiance appeal to buyers seeking a residential feel in a compact footprint.
• Compact footprint: ProMaster drivability and city maneuverability make van life accessible to more travelers.
• Feature packaging: high-spec electrical and off-grid options offered from the factory rather than aftermarket.

There are reports of responsive factory communication for some owners, and satisfied buyers who report trouble-free use through the first season. That said, boutique brands still face the same core challenges of QC variability, parts logistics, and dealership service performance, so rigorous pre-purchase diligence is essential.

Action Plan for Shoppers Considering Panoramic RV

To protect your investment and maximize the odds of a positive ownership experience:

• Research publicly:
  • Google: Panoramic RV Problems
  • BBB: Panoramic RV
  • YouTube: Panoramic RV Problems
• Consult independent experts: hire an inspector for pre-purchase and delivery-day checks; consider a follow-up after your first 1,000 miles.
• Negotiate pre-delivery commitments: defects must be fixed prior to possession; include a re-inspection clause.
• Demand clear warranty contacts: know who authorizes what (dealer vs. factory vs. component manufacturer) and typical turnaround times.
• Insure appropriately: consider policies that cover loss of use, roadside towing for heavier vans, and personal effects.

If you’ve navigated a successful Panoramic RV purchase, what made the difference?

Final Considerations and Bottom Line

Panoramic RV offers a stylish, compact Class B with premium options aimed at design-forward travelers who value off-grid capabilities. As with many boutique brands, the gap between brochure promises and real-world performance is where ownership can become expensive. The most consequential areas for Panoramic RV shoppers mirror cross-industry problem zones: electrical integration, leak prevention, accurate cold-weather performance, and after-sale support capacity. Because the vans are built on Ram ProMaster, chassis recalls and parts logistics add variables that are outside the converter’s direct control—yet still your problem when trip plans collide with service backlogs.

Use the resources linked throughout to vet owner experiences, verify recall histories, and pressure-test claims before you sign. Independent inspectors are your best protection against discovering issues after the check clears. Finally, hold the dealer and the manufacturer to written timelines for defect remediation and ensure every PDI punch-list item is closed out before you drive away.

Recommendation: Given the weight of public complaint patterns facing boutique Class B builders—especially around electrical reliability, water intrusion, and post-sale service capacity—shoppers should approach Panoramic RV with caution. Unless a thorough third-party inspection and strong, written pre-delivery remedies are in place, we do not recommend proceeding; instead, compare alternative Class B brands with broader service networks and deeper owner datasets to reduce risk.

Have you owned a Panoramic RV? Post your honest experience to guide other buyers.