Roadtrek-Simplicity RV Exposed: Owner-Verified Electrical Problems, Leaks, Recalls & Delays

Introduction: What Shoppers Need to Know About the Roadtrek Simplicity

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. The Roadtrek Simplicity is a Class B camper van historically built on the Ram ProMaster chassis and marketed as Roadtrek’s value-oriented build. Roadtrek, a once-iconic Canadian brand, experienced a notorious corporate collapse in 2019 under Erwin Hymer Group North America (EHGNA), followed by a relaunch under new ownership (Groupe Rapido). In owner forums and across consumer review platforms, the Simplicity is frequently discussed as a mixed bag: an accessible floor plan from a well-known name, but shadowed by patterns of workmanship complaints, service delays, and chassis-related recall concerns that can heavily affect ownership costs and safety.

Below you’ll find the most consistent, verifiable issues reported by owners, accompanied by direct links to public sources where you can read complaints in their own words. We strongly advise you to investigate each problem category and corroborate it using the linked search tools, forums, and databases.

Where to Research Unfiltered Owner Experiences (Before You Buy)

• YouTube owner reports: Start with broad searches like
  YouTube: Roadtrek Simplicity Problems.
  Also consider industry watchdog channels like
  Liz Amazing’s investigative RV videos (search her channel for the exact model you’re considering).
• Google reviews and complaints: Use a broad web search to surface dealer and owner feedback:
  Google: Roadtrek Simplicity Problems.
• Better Business Bureau (BBB): See complaint histories and responses:
  BBB: Roadtrek Simplicity.
• Reddit communities: Owner-to-owner threads can be blunt and detailed:
  r/rvs: Roadtrek Simplicity Problems,
  r/RVLiving: Roadtrek Simplicity Problems,
  r/GoRVing: Roadtrek Simplicity Problems.
• Owner review aggregators:
  RVInsider: Roadtrek Simplicity Problems and
  Good Sam Community: Roadtrek Simplicity Problems.
• Forums: Use the site search boxes at
  RVForums,
  RVForum.net, and
  RVUSA Forum to find threads on “Roadtrek Simplicity problems.”
• NHTSA recalls (safety critical): Search safety actions tied to the chassis and conversion:
  NHTSA Recalls: Roadtrek Simplicity.
• PissedConsumer: Visit
  PissedConsumer and search manually for “Roadtrek Simplicity.”
• Facebook groups (unfiltered owner diaries): Join multiple Roadtrek and Simplicity-focused groups. Use this Google query to find them:
  Roadtrek Simplicity Facebook Groups.

For ongoing consumer advocacy and model-specific red flags, also explore
this YouTube channel exposing common RV defects, and search within it for “Roadtrek Simplicity.”

Have you owned or test-driven a Roadtrek Simplicity? Tell shoppers what surprised you.

Before You Sign: Get a Third-Party RV Inspection

The biggest leverage you have is before you accept delivery. Arrange an independent pre-purchase inspection to document defects and negotiate repairs prior to payment. Owners across forums and 1‑star reviews commonly report multi-month service backlogs for warranty items after the dealer has your money—sometimes canceling planned trips while the van sits at a lot waiting on parts or factory approval. An independent report can identify water intrusion, electrical faults, propane leaks, misaligned doors/windows, undercarriage corrosion, and appliance setup issues that you won’t catch in a quick walkthrough. Start with a local search:
RV Inspectors near me.

• Put inspection findings in writing: Attach the report to your purchase agreement and require completion of all items before final payment.
• Time your purchase: If the dealer insists you “take it and we’ll fix it later,” assume you may be deprioritized once you leave the lot.
• Re-inspect after repairs: Before taking possession, confirm all items are corrected.

One more time, here’s a quick link to find a qualified professional:
Find an RV inspector near you.

Brand History That Affects Simplicity Owners

Roadtrek’s 2019 corporate turmoil under EHGNA left many owners in limbo on warranty support; subsequent ownership changes aimed to stabilize operations and service. Prospective Simplicity buyers should read owner accounts from this period to understand how warranty transitions and parts sourcing affected repair times and coverage. Use these sources to verify timelines and impacts on Simplicity owners:
Google: Roadtrek Simplicity Problems,
BBB search for Roadtrek Simplicity, and
YouTube searches tied to model-specific experiences
here.

To broaden your understanding of the industry’s systemic quality problems, consider browsing
Liz Amazing’s RV consumer advocacy channel and search for your exact model by name.

Reported Patterns of Defects and Failures on the Roadtrek Simplicity

Electrical System Instability and Charging Problems

Owners frequently report 12V system inconsistencies, weak house battery performance, converters/chargers running hot or failing, and alternator-based charging that doesn’t restore capacity as expected. On some units, parasitic draws lead to dead batteries after short storage periods. If equipped with older AGM banks or early-generation alternator charging setups, the Simplicity may struggle to support modern power needs (inverter loads, compressor fridges, CPAPs, etc.). Verify details in public threads and videos:
Google: Roadtrek Simplicity Electrical Problems,
YouTube: Roadtrek Simplicity Electrical Problems, and
RVInsider owner reports.

• Real-world impact: Trips cut short due to depleted batteries; reliance on shore power; unexpected generator or alternator runtime; premature battery replacement costs.
• Inspection tip: Have an inspector load-test the house bank, verify converter output voltages, check for undersized cabling, and confirm that the alternator and any DC‑DC chargers properly regulate charging.

Have you battled charging issues on a Simplicity? Add your firsthand guidance for fellow buyers.

Water Intrusion: Roof, Windows, and Plumbing Fittings

Common consumer complaints cite leaks around roof penetrations (fans, racks), side windows, and PEX plumbing fittings beneath sinks or near the water pump. Even minor water intrusion can delaminate cabinetry, stain headliners, and spur mold odors. Threads often mention loose hose clamps, mis-crimped PEX, or missing sealant in high-exposure areas. Verify owner accounts via
Google: Roadtrek Simplicity Water Leaks and
community discussions on
Good Sam and
Reddit: water leaks.

• Real-world impact: Damaged floors and cabinetry, mildew, ruined trips, hidden structural issues that harm resale value.
• Inspection tip: Moisture meter all seams, window surrounds, and the bath; pressurize plumbing and check every crimp and clamp; inspect roof sealant quality and age.

Propane System and Appliance Safety

Reports include propane smell, regulator issues, misrouted lines near heat sources, and appliance malfunctions (furnace ignition, water heater reliability). Any propane leak is a safety hazard and may also impair boondocking if owners must shut off LP entirely. Corroborate with
Google: Roadtrek Simplicity Propane Problems and check for related safety actions at
NHTSA recalls.

• Real-world impact: Fire/explosion risk; loss of heat or hot water; costly diagnostics; trip cancellations.
• Inspection tip: Demand a propane pressure test and leak-down test, and confirm proper ventilation and CO/LP detectors with fresh manufacture dates.

Interior Fit, Finish, and Hardware Failures

Many owner narratives describe loose cabinet hinges, latch failures, squeaks/rattles, misaligned doors, and table/bed hardware loosening over the first few thousand miles. On a moving platform, build quality and hardware choice matter; cheap fasteners and light cabinetry quickly reveal themselves. Cross-check via
Google: Roadtrek Simplicity Interior Problems,
Reddit owner threads, and
RVInsider reviews.

• Real-world impact: Constant tinkering, warranty visits for cosmetic/mechanical fixes, reduced perceived quality and resale value.
• Inspection tip: Operate every latch and hinge repeatedly; drive-test for rattles; examine screw bite in cabinetry and the quality of edge banding and finish.

Sliding Door, Window Alignment, and Seal Integrity

ProMaster sliding doors can be finicky; owners report wind noise, water ingress, and poor latching that worsens over time. Conversion modifications sometimes exacerbate window drainage and sealing. Evidence and case stories are easily found through
Google: Roadtrek Simplicity Door Problems and
YouTube examples.

• Real-world impact: Cabin drafts, leaks, rattling on highways, labor-intensive adjustments that sometimes bounce between dealer and chassis shop.
• Inspection tip: Test close and latch on angles; inspect weatherstripping contact and drain paths; water-test with a hose.

Appliance Reliability: Fridges, Furnaces, Water Heaters, and A/C

Owners cite intermittent fridge cooling (especially 12V compressor units on weak house banks), sensor/board faults, furnace short-cycling, and noisy or underperforming air conditioners. Many complaints blend appliance brand issues with installation quality. Verify aggregated complaints at
Google: Roadtrek Simplicity Appliance Problems and
YouTube fridge problem searches.

• Real-world impact: Food spoilage, loss of heat or hot water, poor sleep in warm climates, increased generator run time.
• Inspection tip: Run the fridge through a full cooling cycle on battery; test furnace and water heater ignition multiple times; measure A/C supply temps and verify voltage under load.

Chassis-Related Issues (Ram ProMaster)

The Simplicity rides on Ram ProMaster, which has its own set of recalls and service advisories across various model years (e.g., airbags, backup camera visibility, shifter cable detachment, electrical/alternator concerns). These are not unique to Roadtrek but absolutely affect Simplicity owners. Always run the VIN through recall databases:
NHTSA Roadtrek Simplicity recalls and—if known—the specific ProMaster year via NHTSA.

• Real-world impact: Safety hazards, breakdowns, long waits for parts, and coordination headaches between chassis dealers and RV dealers.
• Inspection tip: Demand a recall-free VIN at delivery; test drive at highway speed; scan for diagnostic codes; inspect tires for date, alignment wear, and load ratings appropriate for the conversion’s weight.

If your Simplicity had a significant chassis repair, what did it cost and how long were you down?

Awning, Exterior Accessories, and Sealant Maintenance

Reports of awning mis-deployments, wind damage, and water ingress at roof-rack or fan cutouts appear frequently in owner threads. Exterior add-ons can be installed in a rush, leaving inadequate bedding or sealant overlap. See examples via
Google: Roadtrek Simplicity Awning Problems and general exterior issues:
YouTube: Roadtrek Simplicity leaks.

• Real-world impact: Roof leaks, awning failures, costly replacements often not fully covered under warranty if labeled “owner misuse.”
• Inspection tip: Deploy and stow the awning several times; check fasteners, brackets, and seal lines; inspect roof sealants for uniformity and adhesion.

Warranty Response and Dealer-Service Delays

Thread after thread describes owners waiting weeks or months for warranty approval and parts, with vans immobilized at dealerships during prime camping season. Some describe back-and-forth disputes over whether an issue is “chassis” or “coach,” leaving the consumer stuck in the middle. Verify patterns in broader searches:
Google: Roadtrek Simplicity Warranty Problems,
BBB complaint listings, and
Reddit warranty threads.

• Real-world impact: Lost travel time, out-of-pocket expenses for temporary fixes, eroded confidence and resale value.
• Inspection tip: Pre-purchase, ask the selling dealer for their current service lead times and parts availability on Roadtrek jobs; get names and direct contacts in writing.

To avoid becoming a service-line cautionary tale, line up a pre-purchase inspection:
find an RV inspector near you.

Pricing, “Value” Positioning, and Under-Delivered Features

Although marketed as a value model, owners sometimes argue that the Simplicity is priced close to competitors that deliver more robust electrical systems, better cabinetry, or improved insulation. Some report paying extra for options they later felt were under-specced or poorly integrated. Inspect for what you’re actually getting—amp-hours of battery, true inverter wattage, solar controller specs—rather than relying on brochure language. Compare owner opinions via
Google: Roadtrek Simplicity Overpriced and
YouTube reviews.

• Real-world impact: Paying premium prices for components that require immediate upgrades (lithium battery, DC‑DC charger, fans, suspension).
• Inspection tip: Audit every “feature” line item and verify brand/model numbers. Price out upgrades to understand total cost of ownership in the first year.

Post-2019 Improvements and What They Mean

After Roadtrek’s ownership change, some buyers report more responsive communication and clearer model lineups. However, forum accounts indicate that implementation is uneven—some dealerships deliver well-prepped units; others don’t. We do see signs of improvement in parts availability and customer outreach compared to the 2019 turmoil, but buyers should not assume a uniform experience. Validate using recent-dated posts on
RVForums,
RVForum.net, and
RVUSA Forum.

If you purchased recently, what’s your service experience been like—smooth or uphill?

Legal and Regulatory Warnings

Based on recurring consumer complaints—especially around warranty denials, delays, and safety defects—buyers and owners should understand their rights and avenues for escalation:

• Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act (U.S.): This federal law requires clear warranty terms and good-faith warranty performance. If warranted items aren’t repaired within a reasonable number of attempts or timeframe, you may have remedies, including potential recovery of attorney’s fees. Document everything: dates, communications, and repair orders.
• State Lemon Laws: Many state lemon laws focus on the vehicle chassis and may not cover the coach components. Nonetheless, repeated failures affecting use, value, or safety may open state-specific remedies. Consult an attorney versed in RV lemon law in your state.
• FTC oversight: Deceptive marketing claims about features or performance could fall under Federal Trade Commission scrutiny. Keep brochures and emails that promised specific capabilities.
• NHTSA safety reports: Safety-related defects (brakes, steering, fuel systems, airbags, backup camera visibility) should be reported to NHTSA. Search existing Roadtrek/ProMaster actions at
  NHTSA Recalls.

When warranty repairs drag on without resolution, formal demand letters referencing Magnuson–Moss can spur action. If you’ve reached that point with a Simplicity, what steps moved your case forward?

Product and Safety Impact Analysis

The Simplicity’s reported defects cluster around systems that directly shape safety, usability, and owner cost burden:

• Electrical instability: Low-voltage conditions can damage electronics, disable compressor fridges, or cause furnace boards to fault—leaving you without heat or refrigeration off-grid.
• Propane concerns: Any LP leak is a life-safety hazard; poor ventilation or failing detectors amplify risks.
• Water intrusion: Persistent leaks can lead to mold, respiratory problems, and expensive structural remediation.
• Chassis recalls: Airbag or shifter cable issues are safety-critical; recall completion is non-negotiable before long trips.
• Service delays: Months-long waits can strand your only vehicle (if you full-time) or wreck seasonal plans—consumers may have to cover rental lodging or pursue partial refunds.

Together, these factors elevate both immediate safety risk and long-term financial exposure. That’s why a rigorous pre-purchase inspection and a detailed delivery-day checklist are essential.

How to Verify Every Claim in This Report

We encourage you to independently corroborate each concern using the following searches and communities. Read multiple first-person accounts, compare build years, and note whether a fix was permanent or temporary:

• Google: Roadtrek Simplicity Problems — broad sweep of owner reviews and dealer feedback.
• YouTube: Roadtrek Simplicity Problems — watch real repair journeys, delivery checklists, and failure modes.
• BBB search — chronology of complaints and business responses.
• Reddit: r/rvs,
  r/RVLiving,
  r/GoRVing — unvarnished owner diaries.
• NHTSA recall search — safety defects and remedies.
• RVInsider and
  Good Sam — owner satisfaction and patterns.
• Roadtrek Simplicity Facebook groups — day-to-day field fixes and common parts lists.

Also consider searching within
this consumer-advocacy channel for model-specific red flags and delivery-day walkthroughs.

Actionable Buying Checklist (If You Proceed)

• Independent inspection: Book a third-party inspection before signing. If the dealer balks, that’s a sign. Use
  RV Inspectors near me.
• VIN recall clearance: Obtain proof that all chassis and coach recalls are completed. Cross-check via
  NHTSA.
• Electrical audit: Confirm battery chemistry and usable amp-hours, presence of a DC‑DC charger, inverter continuous wattage, and cable sizes. Review heat management for the converter and inverter.
• Propane safety: Insist on a documented LP pressure and leak-down test, detector test, and proper venting verification.
• Water protection: Moisture test roof, window surrounds, bath, and under-sink spaces; require resealing before delivery if readings are high.
• Service plan in writing: Get dealer service lead time, parts sourcing commitments, and loaner/compensation policies documented.
• Exit clause: If major issues are uncovered pre-delivery, negotiate repair deadlines with penalties or walk-away rights.

Did a pre-purchase inspection save you from a lemon? Share your before-and-after.

Balanced Note: What Some Owners Appreciate

To maintain objectivity: some Simplicity owners praise maneuverability, modest parking footprint, and practical layouts for two travelers. A portion report acceptable reliability after initial shakedown fixes, and a few note responsive dealers post-2019. Those experiences exist—but the weight of evidence across reviews and forums leans toward caution, especially regarding electrical robustness, leak prevention, and warranty logistics.

Bottom Line and Recommendation

Aggregated consumer experiences paint the Roadtrek Simplicity as a high-variance purchase. Key risk factors include electrical system shortcomings, water intrusion vulnerabilities, propane and appliance hiccups, and frequent service bottlenecks—compounded by chassis recalls that must be cleared. Some buyers end up satisfied after early fixes; others face long downtime, repeated repairs, and unexpected costs.

For prospective buyers, the safest path is to leverage independent inspections, aggressive pre-delivery defect correction, and a documented service plan. Cross-reference every claim with public sources:
Google,
BBB,
YouTube,
NHTSA, and active owner forums and Facebook groups found via
this search.

Given the density of verifiable complaints about quality control, electrical performance, water intrusion, and service delays, we do not recommend the Roadtrek Simplicity for risk-averse buyers. If you need a Class B now, consider alternative brands/models with stronger owner-reported reliability and proven dealer support—and always demand an independent inspection and pre-delivery repairs in writing.

Already owned or shopped this model? Help the next buyer with your real-world insights.