Pete’s RV Center Indiana- Schererville, IN Exposed: Hidden Fees, Delivery Defects & Service Delays
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Pete’s RV Center Indiana- Schererville, IN
Location: 500 W Lincoln Hwy, Schererville, IN 46375
Contact Info:
• Main: (219) 248-3841
• sales@petesrv.com
• info@petesrv.com
Official Report ID: 2518
Introduction: What RV Shoppers Need to Know About Pete’s RV Center Indiana (Schererville)
AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. Pete’s RV Center Indiana in Schererville, IN operates as part of a multi-location dealership group with outlets across several states. This location serves Northwest Indiana and the greater Chicagoland area. While the brand’s footprint has grown, public feedback for the Schererville store reveals cautionary patterns that RV shoppers should weigh carefully before purchasing or servicing an RV here.
Start your due diligence with the dealership’s most current public reviews. Visit the official listing and sort by “Lowest rating” to read recent 1-star and 2-star accounts: Pete’s RV Center Indiana (Schererville) Google Business Profile. Pay attention to details about delivery condition, paperwork delays, communication responsiveness, and service turnaround time.
To get unfiltered owner-to-owner feedback on the specific RV brand and model you’re considering, join multiple Facebook groups and model forums. Do not rely on a single page or group. Use this pre-filtered search and then add your RV make/model: Search for brand-specific Facebook groups via Google. Cross-check whether those owners report similar issues with the same dealership or model line.
For an independent industry watchdog perspective, consumer educator Liz Amazing has produced numerous videos on RV dealer practices, pre-delivery inspections, and warranty pitfalls. See her channel and search for the dealer or brand you’re considering: Liz Amazing’s RV consumer investigations. If you have personal experience with this location, would you add your firsthand account?
Before You Buy: Independent Inspections and Your Leverage
Get a third-party inspection before signing—your best leverage
Across the RV industry, costly defects, misaligned slide-outs, water intrusion, non-functioning appliances, and unfinished prep are common on “new” deliveries. To protect yourself, schedule a third-party, certified RV inspection before you sign final papers or accept delivery at Pete’s RV Center Indiana (Schererville). Use this search: RV Inspectors near me. Print the report, have the dealer sign off on every item they agree to correct, and tie it to your purchase agreement with specific timelines in writing.
- Insist the inspection happens pre-funding: Once the dealer is paid, the urgency to fix issues can plummet and you may be pushed to the back of the service queue.
- Walk if they refuse third-party access: If Pete’s RV Center Indiana won’t permit an independent inspector onsite, that’s a red flag. Reputable sellers welcome transparent inspections.
- Reconfirm warranty coverage: Ensure manufacturer and any extended service contract will cover items found by your inspector.
If you already purchased and are waiting on repairs, consider sharing your timeline and outcome so other shoppers can calibrate their expectations: tell us how it went.
Fast-Track Your Research: Verify Patterns, Don’t Guess
Use these pre-formatted search links to validate patterns of complaints and service outcomes for Pete’s RV Center Indiana (Schererville). Open each in a new tab, then compare themes across sources.
- YouTube search: Pete’s RV Center Indiana Schererville IN Issues
- Google search: Pete’s RV Center Indiana Schererville IN Issues
- BBB search: Pete’s RV Center Indiana Schererville IN
- Reddit r/RVLiving search
- Reddit r/GoRVing search
- Reddit r/rvs search
- PissedConsumer: open site and search “Pete’s RV Center Indiana Schererville”
- NHTSA recalls search (enter your RV make/model after opening)
- RVForums.com: use site search for this dealership
- RVForum.net: use site search
- RVUSA Forum: search for dealer name
- RVInsider search: Pete’s RV Center Indiana Schererville
- Good Sam Community search
Again, begin with Google reviews, sorted by the Lowest rating: Pete’s RV Center Indiana (Schererville) Google Business Profile. If you’ve already researched this store, what stood out in the low-star reviews?
Key Risk Areas to Scrutinize at the Schererville Location
Sales Tactics, Pricing Transparency, and Financing
Across public reviews of many RV dealers—this store included—shoppers frequently flag aggressive sales tactics, shifting numbers, or after-the-fact fees. Watch for high-pressure closes, unexplained “prep” or “delivery” add-ons, and heavy pushes toward in-house financing or add-on products. Before you visit:
- Get a line-item buyer’s order with every fee named and capped. Don’t sign until it’s complete.
- Bring your own pre-approval from a credit union and compare APR and term against dealer financing.
- Refuse unnecessary add-ons: paint/fabric protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tire fills, and “etch” packages rarely add real value.
When reading low-rated Google reviews, look for terms like “upsell,” “changed the price,” “hidden fees,” or “bait-and-switch.” If you encounter anything similar at Pete’s RV Center Indiana (Schererville), ask for a corrected buyer’s order or walk. You can also learn how to spot these tactics from consumer advocates like Liz Amazing’s videos on dealer games.
Trade-In Values and Appraisal Practices
Some buyers allege low-ball trade offers followed by last-minute appraisal “adjustments.” To avoid surprises:
- Obtain third-party valuations (NADA, RVTrader comps, multiple competing dealership appraisals) before visiting.
- Get the trade number in writing on the deal sheet with conditions clearly stated (e.g., final inspection findings).
- Decouple transactions: if necessary, sell your old RV privately to maximize value.
Paperwork, Title, and Registration Delays
Delayed titles or plates can leave you unable to travel or register your RV, while still making payments. When you review recent low-star feedback on Google, scan for phrases like “title delay,” “paperwork not sent,” “temp tag expired,” and “DMV issues.”
- Demand a written timeline for title work and registration with specific due dates and a staff contact.
- Keep copies of everything, including the signed odometer statement, MSO (for new units), and funding confirmation.
- Escalate early to the general manager if dates slip. Document calls and emails.
Delivery Condition, PDI (Pre-Delivery Inspection), and Post-Sale Fixes
Multiple consumers across the industry report paying for “dealer prep” only to discover non-functioning systems at delivery: leaks, dead batteries, miswired components, or slides that won’t extend. To counter this risk at Pete’s RV Center Indiana (Schererville):
- Bring your own PDI checklist and test every appliance, slide, water fixture, tank, and safety device in daylight and while connected to water/power.
- Refuse delivery until critical defects are corrected in writing with a dated service work order.
- Use a professional inspector and attach their defect list to the contract. Search: RV Inspectors near me.
Service Department Responsiveness and Repair Timelines
RVers often report long waits for warranty authorization, parts, and technician availability. Some also document units sitting for weeks with little communication. When you review low-star reviews on the Google Business Profile for the Schererville location, look for specifics like “months waiting,” “no updates,” “kept our camper,” or “canceled trips.”
- Ask for a written ETA for diagnostic and repair steps; require status updates by email or text.
- Get a printed work order listing every concern and the promised resolution date.
- If delays escalate, request your unit back and consider mobile RV techs for certain non-structural jobs.
To better understand what “normal” turnaround should look like and how consumers are pushing back, see examples on Liz Amazing’s channel, which covers service backlogs and consumer strategies. If you’ve experienced extended delays at this store, please document the timeline below—it helps others plan.
Manufacturer Warranty vs. Extended Service Contracts
Upsells for “warranties” and “protection plans” are often highly profitable for dealers yet difficult to use when you need them. Consumers sometimes discover exclusions, deductibles, maintenance requirements, and pre-authorization hoops that undermine coverage.
- Read full contracts before purchase; don’t rely on verbal assurances. Verify who administers claims and where repairs can be completed.
- Skip redundant coverage if your manufacturer’s warranty already covers the risk in the first year.
- Compare third-party service contract options outside the dealership for price and coverage.
Parts Availability and Recall Handling
Parts delays are common, but proactive communication and accurate ETAs distinguish better service departments. Always ask whether the dealer has verified parts availability and confirmed any relevant recalls for your VIN before scheduling repairs. Look up recalls affecting your RV’s brand/model at NHTSA: NHTSA Recalls Portal and then enter your vehicle details.
Communication and Accountability
In low-star reviews across the industry, recurring issues include unreturned calls, lack of status updates, and conflicting answers from different staff. If you see similar patterns when you sort Pete’s RV Center Indiana’s Google reviews by Lowest rating, treat that as a forecasting tool for how your case might be handled.
- Designate one contact and get their direct extension/email.
- Use written communication and summarize phone calls with follow-up emails to create a paper trail.
- Escalate promptly to management if commitments slip; confirm new dates in writing.
Price Integrity and “Add-Ons” at Signing
Last-minute items can inflate your out-the-door number. Be prepared to decline anything you did not agree to in advance and refuse to sign until the buyer’s order matches the agreed price. Bring a copy of your written quote and ensure it’s signed by the dealership.
What the Lowest-Rated Reviews Can Reveal (How to Read Them)
Use a structured approach to spot patterns
To avoid cherry-picking, scan through multiple 1-star and 2-star reviews on the Schererville Google listing and tally the following:
- Category: Sales experience, delivery/PDI, service delays, parts/recall, paperwork/title.
- Timeline: How long did the issue persist? Were trips canceled?
- Resolution: Did management step in? Was a fix or refund issued?
- Documentation: Did the reviewer post emails, dates, or specifics that make the account credible?
Then open BBB and Reddit threads to see whether similar themes appear. This helps distinguish one-off friction from recurring process issues. Don’t forget to read the dealer’s responses: do they accept responsibility and provide fix timelines, or do they deflect? If you have a specific experience at this location, would you summarize the steps the dealer took?
Legal and Regulatory Warnings
Consumer protection laws that may apply
RV transactions involve a patchwork of laws and regulators. If you believe Pete’s RV Center Indiana (Schererville) misrepresented a unit, failed to honor written promises, or mishandled title work, you may have recourse under:
- Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (MMWA): Governs consumer product warranties and prohibits deceptive warranty practices. Learn more at the FTC: FTC on Magnuson-Moss.
- State deceptive trade practices and auto/RV dealer laws: You can file a complaint with the Indiana Attorney General if you suspect unfair or deceptive practices. Start here: Indiana Attorney General Consumer Complaint.
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Accepts complaints on deceptive sales or financing practices: Report to the FTC.
- NHTSA (safety defects and recalls): If you suspect a safety defect hasn’t been addressed, report it: Report a Vehicle Safety Problem.
If paperwork or title delays persist beyond promised dates, consider sending a formal demand letter. For financed sales, also notify your lender of unresolved delivery defects or missing documents to protect your rights. You can simultaneously file a written complaint with the BBB: BBB search for Pete’s RV Center Indiana.
Product and Safety Impact Analysis
How reported defects translate into real-world risk
Common RV defects—especially if not corrected before delivery—can present serious safety and financial hazards:
- Water leaks and mold: Compromised seals, roof penetrations, or slide leaks can rapidly damage subflooring and walls, reducing structural integrity and resale value.
- Brake, axle, or tire issues: Improper torque, alignment, or defective components increase the risk of blowouts and loss of control while towing.
- 12V and 120V electrical faults: Miswiring can cause shorts, battery failures, or fire hazards; GFCIs and detectors must be tested before departure.
- LP gas system leaks: Loose connections or failing regulators can lead to explosion or carbon monoxide risks.
- Slide and leveling malfunctions: Binding slides can damage seals, while unstable leveling systems pose crush or rollover dangers.
Always run your VIN through recall databases and ask the dealership to certify in writing that all recalls are completed before delivery. Start at NHTSA: NHTSA Recalls and enter your exact year/make/model. If you’re unsure how to assess risk, an independent inspection is essential: find a certified RV inspector near you.
Recognizing Common Upsells and How to Respond
Extended warranties, coatings, and “must-have” packages
In the finance office, expect offers for extended service contracts, gap coverage, tire-and-wheel, interior/exterior coatings, and theft-deterrent etching. Some buyers later discover limited coverage, high deductibles, or claims denial. To avoid paying for fluff:
- Ask for full policy documents before you decide. Take them home to review, and compare to alternatives.
- Calculate total cost with financing—these products accrue interest when rolled into the loan.
- Say no first. You can always add certain coverage later if you decide you need it.
For deeper context on dealership upsells, see this independent perspective and search for your dealer or brand: Liz Amazing on beating F&I upsells. Have you encountered similar add-ons at the Schererville location? Add your notes for other buyers.
If Problems Arise After Purchase
Escalation steps that create leverage
- Document everything: Photos, videos, dated emails, and signed work orders form the backbone of any claim.
- Write a formal notice to the dealership’s general manager summarizing defects, promised corrections, and deadlines.
- Parallel-file complaints with the Indiana Attorney General, the BBB, and (if safety-related) NHTSA to start an official trail.
- Work with your lender: If the unit was never delivered as promised, promptly notify the bank and request options while the dealer remedies the situation.
- Consider small claims or mediation: For unresolved issues with clear documentation, small claims can be a cost-effective path to resolution.
Balanced Notes: Are There Improvements or Positive Outcomes?
What to look for in dealer responses
Even dealerships with many negative reviews sometimes provide meaningful remedies—covering substantial repairs, authorizing mobile techs, or swapping units. Scan Pete’s RV Center Indiana (Schererville) public responses for signs of accountability:
- Ownership of mistakes: Does management apologize and outline clear next steps?
- Specific timelines: Are dates and parts ETAs stated or just generic promises?
- Follow-through: Do updated reviews or edits confirm that the issue was resolved?
If you’ve had a positive resolution at this location, please share the details—what worked, who helped, and how long it took.
What to Ask Pete’s RV Center Indiana (Schererville) Before You Sign
A concise checklist for the showroom and service bay
- PDI and delivery: Who completed PDI? Can you watch the final PDI and test every system? Will they fix anything found before funding?
- Title and registration: What’s the average timeline? Who is my contact? What happens if deadlines are missed?
- Service lead time: Current average for warranty repairs? Do they allow mobile techs for minor items? Are appointments guaranteed?
- Financing: Provide the best APR in writing. Will they match your credit union rate?
- Add-ons: Provide all product contracts for review at home. Confirm “optional” status. No add-on should be mandatory.
- Third-party inspections: Do they allow a certified independent inspector onsite before closing?
Final Word: Buyer Protection Comes From Preparation
Why diligence matters more with RVs than cars
RVs are homes on wheels—complex, vibration-prone, and assembled from multiple component suppliers. Even brand-new units can suffer from defects that are time-consuming to rectify. That’s why your leverage is strongest before you accept delivery and before the dealership is funded. Insist on transparency, independent inspection, and firm written commitments from Pete’s RV Center Indiana (Schererville). Keep all communications in writing and verify that promises make it onto official paperwork.
For current consumer narratives, start here and read the most recent 1- and 2-star reviews: Pete’s RV Center Indiana (Schererville) Google Business Profile. Then cross-verify at BBB, Reddit, and forums listed above. If you’ve concluded your own purchase or service journey with this store, can you post a brief timeline and outcome?
Summary Recommendation
Based on recurring risk factors that appear across public reviews of the Schererville location and the broader RV dealership landscape—ranging from delivery-condition defects and service delays to paperwork timing and upsell pressure—we recommend shoppers approach Pete’s RV Center Indiana (Schererville) with heightened caution. Do not finalize any sale without a third-party inspection, a line-item buyer’s order, and written timelines for title, PDI fixes, and service support. If the dealership declines third-party inspections or cannot commit to clear, written deliverables, consider taking your business to a different RV dealer with stronger verified customer outcomes.
Comments
Have you purchased, traded, or serviced an RV at Pete’s RV Center Indiana (Schererville)? Your detailed account—dates, documents, and resolution—can help other shoppers avoid costly missteps. Thank you for contributing to a more transparent RV marketplace.
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