Roadtrek-Eco Trek RV Exposed: Lithium Recalls, Charging Failures, and Costly Service Delays

Introduction and model background

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. What follows is a deeply sourced, consumer-first investigation into the Roadtrek EcoTrek-equipped Class B vans—Roadtrek’s lithium power package introduced in the mid-2010s and marketed as a breakthrough for off-grid camping. The EcoTrek system (commonly seen as EcoTrek 200/400/800) promised quiet, generator-free power supported by a battery management system, optional solar, an underhood alternator generator, and auto-start features such as VoltStart.

In practice, EcoTrek’s reputation is mixed. While some owners have enjoyed extended boondocking, a significant volume of public complaints and recall information points to serious reliability, safety, and service challenges—especially among model years produced under Erwin Hymer North America (EHNA) before its 2019 collapse and the subsequent relaunch of Roadtrek under new ownership. Because many EcoTrek-equipped vans are still on the road and being sold used, shoppers should approach with rigorous due diligence, particularly around battery safety recalls, charging system behavior, and long repair timelines after purchase.

Before diving into the details, one resource worth bookmarking: Liz Amazing’s YouTube channel regularly examines RV industry problems and owner rights. Explore Liz Amazing’s consumer advocacy videos and then use her channel’s search function for Roadtrek/EcoTrek specifics. Also, willing to add your story for other shoppers?

Where to find unfiltered owner feedback

• Facebook owner groups: Don’t rely on marketing. Join Roadtrek/EcoTrek-focused Facebook communities for uncensored owner reports. Use this Google search to find relevant groups: Roadtrek Eco Trek Facebook Groups (Google results).
• YouTube owner reviews and breakdowns: Start with a broad search for patterns: Roadtrek Eco Trek Problems on YouTube. For broader industry context and owner advocacy, see how Liz Amazing exposes hidden RV issues.
• Google and BBB: Scan dealer and brand complaints: Roadtrek Eco Trek Problems (Google search), and Roadtrek listings via the BBB: Roadtrek Eco Trek on the BBB.
• Reddit RV communities: Owners post detailed repair journeys, wiring diagrams, and hard-won lessons:
  • r/rvs: Roadtrek Eco Trek Problems
  • r/RVLiving: Roadtrek Eco Trek Problems
  • r/GoRVing: Roadtrek Eco Trek Problems
• Owner review platforms: Look for recurring issues and timelines:
  • RVInsider Roadtrek Eco Trek Problems
  • Good Sam Community: Roadtrek Eco Trek Problems
  • PissedConsumer: go to PissedConsumer main search and search for “Roadtrek EcoTrek” or “Roadtrek lithium” to read buyer disputes.
• Technical forums: Use site search boxes for “Roadtrek EcoTrek problems”:
  • RVForums.com
  • RVForum.net
  • RVUSA forum

Finally, save this recall lookup: NHTSA recalls related to Roadtrek Eco Trek (search). If you own or are considering a used EcoTrek-equipped van, verify every recall has been completed before travel. If you’ve encountered issues, would you add your repair timeline to help other buyers?

Strongly recommended: get a third‑party inspection before you buy

Your leverage ends once you sign. After purchase, many owners report months-long waits for parts and service, cancelled trips, and vans stranded at dealers awaiting authorization. Protect yourself by hiring an independent NRVIA-certified inspector to evaluate the EcoTrek batteries, wiring, charging sources, and safety recalls before taking possession. Book via a local search: RV Inspectors near me.

• Demand a load test and BMS scan. Confirm the EcoTrek packs accept charge, hold capacity, and aren’t in a faulted/locked state.
• Verify recall remedies. Have the inspector inspect labeling, serial numbers, and recall documentation; cross‑check with the seller.
• Simulate real usage. Run the air conditioner, induction cooktop, and microwave from the battery/inverter to observe behavior, heat, and alarms.
• Check charge sources. Test shore power charging, solar controller output (if equipped), underhood generator charging, and auto‑start behavior.

If a dealer resists a pre‑delivery inspection, that’s a red flag. Schedule it yourself: find a qualified RV inspector. If you’ve been pushed to the back of the line post‑sale, can you outline what happened for future buyers?

Major recurring problems and risk areas

EcoTrek lithium battery thermal events and safety recalls

Public recall filings and owner reports document safety issues with certain EcoTrek lithium modules, including risks of overheating and thermal events. In 2019–2020, recalls addressed lithium battery assemblies in various Roadtrek vans built under EHNA. Prospective buyers should research whether a given VIN was affected and what remedy—disablement, module replacement, BMS rework—was applied. Start here: NHTSA recall search for Roadtrek Eco Trek and scan owner experiences: YouTube owner reports on EcoTrek issues.

• Symptoms described: Modules running hot during bulk charge, strong chemical odors, BMS alarms, or the need to disable packs pending recall completion.
• Real‑world consequences: Owners report out‑of‑service periods while packs were removed or disabled; emergency de‑energizing of the system; concerns about parking or storing near dwellings.
• Resale impact: Units with unresolved recalls or disabled EcoTrek systems may be significantly devalued, and replacement packs (when available) are costly.

To see how consumer advocates frame battery safety and recall follow‑through, review content from creators exposing RV safety gaps, e.g., Liz Amazing on RV safety and owner leverage. Also search complaint narratives via Google: Roadtrek Eco Trek recall Problems.

Charging system instability: underhood generator, VoltStart, and solar integration

EcoTrek systems rely on multiple charge sources that must work in concert: the underhood generator/alternator, shore power charger/inverter, and optional solar. Owner reports indicate chronic issues with: alternator belts or clutches, insufficient wiring protection, auto‑start (VoltStart) failing to trigger, or the inverter/charger misreporting state‑of‑charge. Read owner troubleshooting threads and videos: Reddit: Roadtrek Eco Trek Problems and YouTube: EcoTrek charging Problems.

• VoltStart failures: Reports of the system not auto‑starting as batteries drain, leaving fridges to warm and CPAP users without power overnight.
• Alternator/underhood generator issues: No‑charge situations due to belt wear, clutch failures, or control module faults; intermittent charging while driving.
• Solar/controller mismatches: Underwhelming output versus marketing claims, inadequate solar for real boondocking loads, and controllers not communicating state‑of‑charge reliably.

These issues reduce the core value proposition of EcoTrek: “quiet, reliable off‑grid power.” When the charging chain is unstable, owners face dead batteries, spoiled food, and lost camping nights—often repeated as a cycle of dealer visits and warranty claims. Cross‑reference owner reviews: RVInsider reports mentioning EcoTrek and Good Sam: EcoTrek charging Problems.

Months‑long service delays and parts availability

One of the most painful patterns in consumer complaints is not just system failure—but the wait for remedies. Owners describe vans sitting at dealers for weeks or months awaiting authorization, parts, or factory responses—especially acute around 2019’s corporate turmoil. Scan BBB complaints and Google reviews to see timelines and outcomes: BBB: Roadtrek Eco Trek and Google: Roadtrek Eco Trek service complaints.

• Common owner scenario: Warranty claim opened → repeated diagnostics → parts backordered → summer camping season lost.
• Financial impact: Loan payments and insurance continue while the rig is immobilized; rental or hotel costs during trips add to the burden.
• Post‑sale leverage collapse: Once funds clear, dealers may prioritize new sales; getting on the service schedule becomes harder.

To reduce risk, insist on pre‑delivery corrections documented by the dealer and an independent inspection before transfer of funds: book an RV inspector near you. If you’ve experienced long delays, can you share your timeline and how it resolved?

Warranty confusion and coverage gaps after corporate changes

When EHNA collapsed in 2019, coverage for earlier EcoTrek systems became a flashpoint. Public complaints reference denials, confusion over who pays for lithium replacements, and disputes over whether recall work also implies extended coverage for downstream damage. For context, scan aggregated discussions: Roadtrek Eco Trek warranty Problems (Google) and Reddit: EcoTrek warranty Problems.

• Battery pack costs: Out‑of‑warranty lithium replacements can run into thousands of dollars—sometimes more than buyers expected when choosing EcoTrek for “maintenance‑free” power.
• Component vendor overlap: Inverter/chargers (e.g., Xantrex) and auto‑start/ECU systems complicate claims when multiple vendors point fingers.
• Recall ≠ warranty extension: Owners sometimes assume safety recall work extends warranty—generally not the case unless stated by the manufacturer.

Electrical complexity, parasitic draws, and “mystery” shutdowns

EcoTrek systems interconnect batteries, BMS, inverter/charger, alternator charging, solar controller, and control panels. Owners report parasitic draws draining banks during storage; state‑of‑charge displays that don’t reflect reality; GFCI trips when on shore power; and systems “going dark” until reset. Troubleshooting threads and videos: EcoTrek electrical problems on YouTube and Reddit: electrical problems.

• Storage drain: Without disconnects configured properly, the system may drop below safe voltage, triggering BMS lockout.
• Inverter/charger nuisance faults: Error codes and shutdowns under heavy load; inverter cooling fans running constantly and adding heat.
• Reset rituals: Owners describe sequences to reboot systems—hardly the “turn‑key” experience advertised.

Build quality and workmanship complaints (cabinetry, seals, plumbing)

While the EcoTrek system grabs headlines, multiple owner review platforms document routine build issues: misaligned cabinet doors, loose trim, water leaks at fittings, sliding door rattles, and roof component sealing that requires early rework. Check pattern recognition on owner sites: RVInsider Roadtrek build issues and Good Sam: build Problems search.

• New‑owner punch lists: Reports of “shakedown” trips uncovering dozens of small fixes; some dealers address them quickly, others don’t.
• Water intrusion risk: Any leak near the battery/inverter area is doubly concerning due to electrical components nearby.
• Noise and vibration: Class B vans are tight spaces; loose cabinetry or rattling doors amplify fatigue on long drives.

Value and depreciation: premium pricing, expensive fixes

EcoTrek was marketed as a premium off‑grid solution, commanding higher MSRPs. When systems underperform or are affected by recalls, owners face a double hit: diminished utility and reduced resale value, plus costly component replacements if out of warranty. Verify market pricing against functional battery capacity and recall status: Roadtrek Eco Trek resale Problems.

• Lithium pack replacement: Costs can be prohibitive; some owners retrofit third‑party LiFePO4 solutions, which may affect warranty and insurance.
• Buyer skepticism: Informed shoppers increasingly demand proof of recent battery health tests; sellers without documentation may have to discount heavily.
• Opportunity cost: Time spent troubleshooting power systems reduces actual travel and enjoyment—a hidden “cost” many first‑time buyers underestimate.

For a broader perspective on RV value versus promises, see Liz Amazing’s owner-rights videos and then search her channel for Roadtrek/EcoTrek to benchmark your expectations.

Product and safety impact analysis

EcoTrek’s foundational promise—quiet, reliable, generator‑less camping—depends on battery safety and charging reliability. Where recalls or integration problems exist, real‑world impacts can be significant:

• Safety hazards: Overheating lithium packs are a fire risk. Even without ignition, thermal events can damage nearby components and require professional inspection. Always verify recall completion here: NHTSA recall search.
• Medical dependency risk: Owners using CPAPs or refrigeration for medications cannot rely on unstable systems. Reports of VoltStart failures or overnight depletion make trip planning risky.
• Financial exposure: Extended downtime, tow charges, hotel stays, and out‑of‑warranty replacements quickly swamp budgets.
• Insurance implications: Modifications or third‑party battery retrofits can affect policy coverage; consult your insurer before altering the system.

If you’ve run into safety concerns or insurance questions around a Roadtrek EcoTrek system, will you describe how your insurer responded?

Legal and regulatory warnings

Based on public complaints and recall records, potential legal consequences and owner rights may include:

• Safety recall obligations: Manufacturers must notify owners and remedy covered safety defects. Use the NHTSA recall portal to confirm your VIN. Driving or using recalled lithium systems without remedies can be dangerous and may affect liability in an incident.
• Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act (U.S.): Requires that written warranties be honored; misleading or ambiguous terms can trigger enforcement by the FTC. Keep records of every service ticket and communication.
• State lemon laws and UDAP statutes: Vary by state; some cover RVs, others don’t. Even without lemon coverage, unfair or deceptive acts and practices (UDAP) laws may support claims if the product fails to perform as represented.
• Bankruptcy-era claims: Ownership transitions can complicate warranty obligations. If your EcoTrek system stems from pre‑2019 production, obtain written clarification on who is responsible for repairs and recalls.
• Transport and storage safety: If instructed by a recall or service bulletin to disable lithium packs, follow directions to avoid injury or property damage; noncompliance may affect claims after an incident.

If you believe your warranty rights were denied or delayed, consider consulting a consumer‑protection attorney familiar with RV cases. Document everything and cite patterns reflected in public forums and reviews: warranty complaints search.

What’s changed since 2019? A nuanced view

After EHNA’s collapse, Roadtrek relaunched under new ownership. Reports suggest changes to lithium offerings and integration, and some owners indicate better responsiveness. However, a large population of pre‑2019 EcoTrek vans remains in circulation, and legacy issues continue to surface in used sales.

• Recall remedies: Some affected units received mitigation or replacement solutions; others had packs disabled. Always verify what was done on the exact VIN.
• System evolution: The brand’s current lithium configurations may differ in chemistry, BMS, and integration compared to early EcoTrek packs. Improvements here don’t automatically “fix” legacy vans unless retrofits were performed.
• Dealer variability: Owner experiences still vary widely by dealer; proactive shops help owners navigate recall lookups and battery diagnostics, while others defer to the factory and delay action.

Balanced takeaway: do not assume improvements in newer Roadtrek builds translate to older EcoTrek-equipped vans without documented retrofits. Confirm, test, and inspect.

Buying checklist for EcoTrek-equipped Roadtrek vans

• Recall status by VIN: Use the NHTSA search and request proof of completed remedies.
• Battery health verification: Documentation of recent capacity tests; successful bulk/absorption charge; BMS not in lockout.
• Thermal inspection: Ask your inspector to thermal-scan battery enclosures during a controlled charge and heavy inverter load.
• Charging sources test: Shore power charging to spec; alternator/underhood generator output while driving; real solar wattage under sun; VoltStart triggers observed.
• Wiring and protection: Inspect cable routing near heat sources; verify fuses/breakers are appropriate and labeled.
• Inverter/charger performance: Run high‑draw appliances; observe voltage sag and error codes; listen for fan cycles.
• Fit/finish and water test: Hose test for leaks; check plumbing under sink/shower; verify roof seals and window weeps.
• Documentation packet: Owner’s manuals, schematics, recall letters, service history, battery serial numbers, firmware revisions.
• Insurance and warranty clarity: Confirm current warranty terms and whether any third‑party battery retrofits affect coverage.
• Independent inspection before funds transfer: Schedule via RV Inspectors near me; make the sale contingent on satisfactory results.

If you’ve built your own pre‑purchase checklist, will you share what you added that helped you avoid problems?

Owner resources and citations

• NHTSA recall search for Roadtrek Eco Trek
• YouTube: Roadtrek Eco Trek Problems
• Google: Roadtrek Eco Trek Problems
• BBB: Roadtrek Eco Trek
• Reddit r/rvs: EcoTrek problems • r/RVLiving • r/GoRVing
• RVInsider: owner reviews • Good Sam Community
• Roadtrek Eco Trek Facebook Groups (Google search)
• RVForums.com • RVForum.net • RVUSA forum
• PissedConsumer: use site search for “Roadtrek EcoTrek” complaints.
• Advocacy and buyer education: Liz Amazing’s RV consumer investigations—search her channel for “Roadtrek” and “lithium.”

Balanced notes—acknowledging improvements

To be fair, not every EcoTrek owner reports problems. Some later Roadtrek configurations appear improved, and diligent owners who keep batteries within recommended temperature/charge ranges report stable performance. Additionally, some dealers have become proficient at diagnosing common failure points (e.g., alternator charging controls, inverter firmware updates). But because the severity of certain historical issues includes safety recalls and prolonged service delays, potential buyers should approach EcoTrek-equipped vans conservatively and demand documentation that specific, known problems have been addressed.

Final verdict

Given the volume and seriousness of public complaints—battery safety recalls, charging instability, warranty disputes, and extended service delays—we do not recommend purchasing a Roadtrek van equipped with the original EcoTrek lithium system unless you can conclusively verify recall completion, battery health, and reliable charging behavior under load through an independent inspection and test drive. If those conditions cannot be met, consider alternative brands or Roadtrek configurations that use newer, better‑documented lithium systems with clear warranty support.

If you own or owned a Roadtrek EcoTrek system, your insights will help future buyers. Add your lessons learned and repair outcomes.