Royal Coach Sales- Eugene, OR Exposed: Pushy Add-Ons & Hidden Defects – Demand 3rd-Party Inspection

(Serious Concern)

Across many RV dealerships—especially those selling older or consigned units—buyers report expensive post-sale repairs they didn’t anticipate. Whether you are looking at a travel trailer, fifth-wheel, or motorhome, your single strongest leverage is an independent, third-party inspection conducted before you pay in full or sign “as-is” paperwork. If a dealer resists or refuses a third-party professional inspection, that is a major red flag—walk.

• Book an inspection via a local, certified RV inspector: Search “RV Inspectors near me”. Find someone with motorhome and chassis experience if you’re buying Class A/Class C.
• Require the inspector to test water systems under pressure, roof integrity, slideouts, propane leaks, brake performance, generator load, and HVAC/heating with real-life loads.
• Make any findings part of a written “we-owe” list the dealer signs, with completion dates, before final payment.

Skipping this step often results in RVs being stuck at the dealer for weeks or months for repairs—derailing camping plans and leaving you with payments on a coach you can’t use. Initiate the inspector search early: Certified RV inspectors near you. If you already have an appointment scheduled, confirm the dealer will allow full access and hookups; if they decline, it’s a signal to reconsider. For specialty diesel pushers, consider a separate chassis/engine inspection as well, and ask the inspector about estimated repair costs.

Curious how experienced RVers vet dealers and units? Learn from consumer advocates like Liz Amazing’s investigative videos and then apply those checklists to any RV you’re considering at Royal Coach Sales-Eugene.

(Serious Concern)

Multiple RV shoppers report dealerships pushing “protection packages” (paint/fabric, undercoating, GPS theft devices, nitrogen, ceramic coatings) that add four figures without equivalent value. If you see line items you didn’t request, insist they be removed. Most add-ons are optional and can be done later at lower cost.

• Ask for a clean, itemized buyer’s order showing the price of the RV alone, without add-ons.
• Decline etch/theft packages unless you truly want them; they rarely impact your insurance premium or recovery rate.
• Extended service contracts can be useful for complex rigs—but coverage exclusions can be substantial. Ask for the full policy booklet up front.

For deeper education on dealer add-ons and how to say no, check independent consumer resources like Liz Amazing’s guides to avoiding RV upsells.

(Moderate Concern)

Low-star reviews across the RV sector often mention rate markups and last-minute changes in loan terms. Come pre-approved from a local credit union. If the dealership’s Finance & Insurance (F&I) office beats your rate, great—just verify no add-ons were slipped in. Ask for the final out-the-door price and the APR, term, and total finance charge in writing.

• Refuse to negotiate based on “monthly payment.” Anchor the discussion to the RV’s sale price plus taxes and title only.
• Check your approval documents carefully for add-ons rolled into the loan.
• Request your credit score and the “buy rate” lender approval to spot potential markups.

(Moderate Concern)

Some dealers re-inspect trade-ins and attempt to lower the allowance on delivery day. Protect yourself with a signed appraisal that includes condition notes and pictures. If the dealer tries to change the numbers without a demonstrable, material difference, be prepared to walk—or sell your RV privately instead.

(Serious Concern)

In complaint narratives, buyers sometimes discover water damage, soft floors, faulty slides, worn tires, or non-functional generators post-sale, despite “ran fine” or “recently serviced” descriptions. This is exactly why you need a third-party inspector to verify the condition before paying. Also, request receipts for any claimed recent repairs or brand-new components.

• Perform a full water test (pressurize plumbing, run sinks, showers, flush toilet; inspect all bays for leaks and rot).
• Run HVAC and generator under load for at least 30 minutes.
• Check tire DOT dates; old tires can look new but be dangerous in heat and at highway speeds.

(Serious Concern)

Post-sale repairs are a common sore point in low-star feedback at many RV stores. Even if a dealer agrees to fix items, their shop capacity can mean long waits, especially during peak season. Ask service advisors for realistic timelines and parts lead times before you sign. Include exact dates in the we-owe and specify loaner or mobile tech options if deadlines slip.

(Moderate Concern)

When PDI is rushed or performed by inexperienced technicians, critical items—roof seals, water intrusion, alternator/charging faults, brake issues—get missed. Require a written PDI checklist and walk through every item with the technician. If you’re new to RVs, bring an experienced friend or your inspector to the PDI as well.

(Serious Concern)

Consumers periodically report slow titles or missing paperwork after purchase, which can prevent registration and insurance updates. In Oregon, dealers are generally required to submit title/registration paperwork promptly (commonly within 30 days). Keep copies of all documents and follow up early and often. If time frames lapse, you can file a complaint with the Oregon Department of Justice Consumer Protection section.

• Confirm the RV has a clear title with no liens before paying. Ask to see the physical title or secure lien payoff documentation.
• Get a written date by which the dealer will complete title transfer and registration.
• If delays persist, consider contacting the Oregon DOJ Consumer Protection for guidance.

(Moderate Concern)

Extended service contracts (often called “extended warranties”) are not manufacturer warranties and can exclude many items. Read the full policy booklet before you agree. For used units, pay attention to pre-existing condition clauses and maintenance requirements. The federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act governs written warranties; false or misleading claims about coverage can be unlawful.

(Serious Concern)

System failures and misrepresented condition in RVs carry serious safety and financial consequences. Examples include:

• Propane leaks or faulty regulators: Fire/explosion risk. Always insist on a leak-down test.
• Brake and tire issues: Older tires with adequate tread can still be unsafe due to age-related degradation. Verify DOT codes.
• Water intrusion: Rot and mold can affect structural integrity and resale value. Inspect roof, seams, slide toppers, and window seals.
• Electrical faults: Inverters, converters, GFCI/AFCI trips, and generator wiring errors can pose shock or fire risks.
• Chassis and steering: Worn bushings, ball joints, or alignment issues contribute to dangerous handling at highway speeds.

Check for open recalls by VIN using NHTSA’s recall tool. While recalls are issued by manufacturers, a dealership selling a unit with known, unrepaired safety recalls should disclose that status and help you schedule remedy work. Use these resources:

• NHTSA Official Recall Lookup (by VIN)
• NHTSA recalls – search context for Royal Coach Sales

If a dealer downplays a safety-critical defect, proceed with caution. A reputable store will prioritize remedying safety items before delivery or coordinate immediate manufacturer-authorized repairs.

(Serious Concern)

Allegations in public complaints about misrepresentation, delayed paperwork, or failure to honor written promises can implicate consumer protection laws. Key frameworks and agencies include:

• Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Unfair or deceptive acts or practices are prohibited. Misrepresenting warranty coverage or condition can draw scrutiny. See the FTC’s warranty guidance: Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act overview.
• Oregon Department of Justice – Consumer Protection: Handles complaints on deceptive practices, failure to deliver titles, and unfulfilled promises. File or learn more here: Oregon DOJ Consumer Protection.
• Truth in Lending Act (TILA): Requires accurate disclosure of finance terms (APR, total of payments). Rate markups or add-ons presented as “free” but financed can be problematic if not properly disclosed.
• FTC Holder Rule: Preserves your right to assert claims and defenses against a holder of your credit contract, which can matter when defects or misrepresentations are discovered post-sale.
• Odometer and title laws: Accurate mileage disclosure and prompt title transfer are mandatory; dealers who fail to submit documents timely can face enforcement.

Consumers who believe they’ve been harmed should document everything: ads/screenshots, texts/emails, signed we-owe, inspection results, and dated photos/videos. These records are essential if you need to file a complaint with the Oregon DOJ or seek private legal counsel.

(Serious Concern)

Beyond inconvenience, the risks are concrete:

• Financial hit: Hidden water damage or drivetrain problems can exceed thousands of dollars. Insurance typically won’t cover pre-existing defects or wear-and-tear repairs.
• Trip cancellations: Service backlogs can sideline your RV for weeks. If you’re full-timing or on a fixed travel schedule, the impact can be significant.
• Safety: Brakes, tires, LP systems, and electrical faults can lead to fires or roadside breakdowns, endangering occupants and other motorists.

Mitigate by making the third-party inspection mandatory, securing all we-owe items in writing with dates, and insisting safety items are remedied before delivery. If a dealer suggests “we’ll take care of it later,” that often translates to long waits and limited urgency once they have your funds. Protect yourself up front.