SD RV & Auto- San Diego, CA Exposed: Complaints of hidden defects, rushed PDIs, financing markups

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report

SD RV & Auto is an independent RV and auto dealership based in San Diego, California. This report focuses exclusively on the San Diego, CA location associated with the Google Business listing linked below. As a private, locally operated dealer (not part of a national chain), SD RV & Auto markets a range of pre-owned RVs and vehicles to regional buyers. The dealership promotes value and quick turnarounds; however, public reviews and community forums indicate recurring consumer pain points that prospective buyers should review carefully before signing. This report distills patterns, risks, and buyer protections to help you make an informed decision.

To read raw, unfiltered feedback, go to the dealership’s Google Business profile and Sort by “Lowest rating” to scan the most current consumer experiences: SD RV & Auto – Google Reviews (Sort by Lowest Rating). If you’ve worked with this dealership, tell us what happened in the comments.

Where to get unfiltered owner feedback before you buy

Join brand-specific owner groups and RV forums

Before buying from any RV dealership, immerse yourself in owner communities where you can read authentic repair histories, warranty outcomes, and long-term usage stories.

• Brand-focused Facebook owner groups: Search for your exact RV brand and model. Use this Google search template: Find RV brand Facebook groups (Google Search). Join multiple groups for balanced perspectives.
• Independent RV forums: RVForums.com, RVForum.net, RVUSA Forum, and the Good Sam Community often host model-specific threads with real repair timelines and dealer feedback.
• YouTube: Numerous channels document pre-delivery inspections (PDIs), warranty fights, and dealer experiences. We recommend searching the channel run by Liz Amazing for dealership and PDI education: Explore Liz Amazing’s RV buyer education videos. Use her channel’s search to look up “SD RV & Auto”.

Have you dealt with SD RV & Auto? Add your story to help other shoppers.

Strong recommendation: Arrange an independent, third-party inspection before you sign

Across public reviews of SD RV & Auto and comparable independent RV dealerships, a dominant pattern emerges: buyers who forgo a pre-purchase inspection often discover expensive defects after the sale. Once your money is in and the vehicle is delivered, you lose leverage. If the unit needs service after the sale, your RV may be parked at the back of the service queue for weeks—or months—while planned trips are cancelled and nonrefundable campsite bookings are lost.

• Always hire a licensed, independent RV inspector to perform a complete top-to-bottom assessment (roof, seals, slide mechanisms, subfloor moisture, electrical systems including inverter/charger, propane system, tires and DOT date codes, braking, generator hours/load, and all appliances).
• Put acceptance contingent on the inspection: Make the final purchase contingent on a clean third-party inspection and satisfactory remedy of any defects in writing.
• If the dealer will not allow an external inspection at their lot, that is a major red flag—walk away.
• Find professionals here: Search “RV Inspectors near me”.

For a deeper dive on PDIs and buyer protections, consider videos by consumer advocates such as Liz Amazing’s step-by-step PDI guidance.

What recent public feedback says about SD RV & Auto (San Diego, CA)

Below are recurring complaint themes compiled from public sources, including the dealership’s Google Business reviews and broader RV owner communities. To verify or read the original narratives, consult the live reviews here: SD RV & Auto – Google Reviews and sort by Lowest rating. While many buyers report acceptable experiences, negative reviews consistently describe issues in the areas below.

Sales representations vs. actual condition

Multiple low-star reviews describe scenarios where the condition of RVs or used vehicles did not match buyer expectations upon delivery or shortly thereafter. Common claims include undisclosed water intrusion, non-functioning appliances, electrical anomalies, soft flooring, and slide or awning problems that were not apparent on a brief lot walkthrough.

• “As-is” language can obscure material defects. In RVs, hidden water damage and soft subfloors are frequent, expensive repairs that may not be obvious during a quick tour.
• Cosmetic “detail” can mask deeper issues. Verify roof seams, inspect undercarriage rust, and use a moisture meter.
• Request proof of any “recent service” claims (receipts, part numbers, and the shop that performed the work).

Always insist on an independent inspection: Find an RV inspector near you. And please report your experience for other shoppers.

Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) quality and missed defects

Owners report defects surfacing immediately post-sale, suggesting minimal or rushed PDIs. In the RV industry broadly, insufficient PDI is a key driver of warranty and repair disputes. When PDI is light, buyers discover issues only after they’ve left the lot—when leverage is gone.

• Demand a written PDI checklist signed by a technician and confirm the technician ran systems under load (shore power, generator, 12V).
• Verify plumbing is pressure-tested, water heater and furnace cycle, fridge cools to spec, and slides seal properly.
• Record the PDI with video. If the dealer refuses, document what they did test in writing.

For PDI walkthroughs and common pitfalls, search the Liz Amazing channel for checklists and real-world tests: Watch practical PDI and buyer-protection content.

Paperwork delays (title, tags, registration)

Some recent SD RV & Auto reviewers describe delayed titles, registration, or plates after purchase. In California, dealers are obligated to process transfers promptly; prolonged delays can expose buyers to tickets or hinder travel plans.

• California Vehicle Code requires dealers to process registration and title in a timely manner (often within about 30 days for used vehicles). If this timeline slips, escalate in writing.
• Keep copies of the purchase contract, temporary tags, and all DMV-related documents.
• If the delay stretches, file a complaint with the California DMV and consider copying the California Attorney General.

Financing and interest rate markups

Reports reference financing surprises: higher-than-expected APRs, add-on products bundled into payment quotes, and pressure to use in-house financing. In the auto/RV industry, dealers can mark up “buy rates” from lenders, especially on subprime loans, and may quote monthly payments instead of disclosing the true cost.

• Get pre-approval from your bank or credit union before visiting the lot. Compare the “buy rate” vs. the dealer-offered APR.
• Decline any add-ons you do not want. Force the finance office to reprint the contract without unwanted products.
• Read every line of the Retail Installment Sales Contract; verify no “service contract” or GAP appears unless you opted in.

Upsells: extended warranties, service contracts, aftermarket add-ons

Owners commonly report aggressive upsells at independent dealerships: extended service contracts with unclear coverage, “interior protection,” tire-and-wheel packages, and GPS or anti-theft add-ons. Some buyers later discover their service contract excludes the failures they assumed were covered or requires authorization hurdles that cause long delays.

• Ask for the full service contract booklet before you sign. Search for exclusions related to “pre-existing conditions,” water intrusion, and “wear-and-tear.”
• Compare third-party RV warranty administrators by reputation and claim approval rates. Consider self-insuring if coverage looks thin.
• Never let add-ons be a condition for financing approval; that is a deceptive practice and should be reported.

Trade-in disputes and “low-ball” valuations

Multiple reviewers at SD RV & Auto and comparable dealers report frustration with trade valuation swings—an attractive preliminary offer reduced after appraisal or during paperwork, often justified by “new findings.”

• Get competing cash offers (CarMax, Carvana, local RV consignment or buyers) before visiting the dealer. Bring printed offers to preserve leverage.
• Disclose your trade’s defects upfront and document condition with photos and service records to avoid “surprise” deductions.
• Refuse to sign if the trade value suddenly changes without legitimate, documented reasons.

Service after the sale and long repair queues

Across the RV industry, long delays for parts and service are common, particularly for used units without robust manufacturer support. Several SD RV & Auto reviewers express dissatisfaction with post-sale service responsiveness and scheduling delays. When a dealer prioritizes new sales over service, buyers can be left waiting through peak camping season.

• Get all “We’ll fix it after delivery” promises in writing, including completion dates and loaner or campsite compensation if delays occur.
• Ask whether the dealer completes warranty repairs in-house or subcontracts, and what the average turn time is for parts and scheduling.
• If the defect affects safety (brakes, tires, LP leaks), do not use the RV until repaired. File a complaint with NHTSA if the issue is safety-related.

Communication, expectations, and follow-through

Some low-star reviewers cite missed callbacks, slow response to questions after deposit, or difficulty getting updates during repair holds. Poor communication amplifies the stress and cost of defects.

• Set communication expectations in writing. Ask for a single point of contact and weekly updates until all items are resolved.
• Escalate in writing to management when commitments slip; maintain a clear paper trail.

How to verify and research SD RV & Auto further

Use the following search links to locate complaints, discussions, and public records about SD RV & Auto (San Diego, CA). Replace “Issues” with “Problems” or “Complaints” as needed. Always evaluate dates and specific circumstances:

• YouTube search: SD RV & Auto San Diego CA Issues
• Google search: SD RV & Auto San Diego CA Issues
• BBB search: SD RV & Auto San Diego CA
• Reddit r/RVLiving search
• Reddit r/GoRVing search
• Reddit r/rvs search
• PissedConsumer (use site search for “SD RV & Auto San Diego CA”)
• NHTSA Recalls search (use VIN for accuracy)
• RVForums.com (use onsite search for dealership name)
• RVForum.net (use onsite search)
• RVUSA Forum (use onsite search)
• RVInsider search
• Good Sam Community search
• Find Facebook RV brand owner groups (Google Search)

Reading those sources alongside the SD RV & Auto Google reviews will help you verify patterns. After you research, post your review or buying outcome.

Legal and regulatory warnings relevant to complaints

Truth in advertising and financing disclosures

Dealers must avoid deceptive claims and disclose the true cost of financing and add-ons. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) enforces truth-in-advertising and has acted against deceptive dealership practices. If you encounter bait-and-switch pricing, undisclosed add-ons, or misrepresented warranty coverage, you can report it to the FTC: Report to the FTC.

California DMV and title/registration timing

California law requires timely title and registration processing by dealers. Extended delays may violate state requirements and cause consumer harm (tickets, inability to travel). If deadlines lapse, file a complaint with the California DMV and notify the California Attorney General.

• California DMV consumer resources: DMV – Vehicle Registration
• California Attorney General (consumer protection): File a complaint with the CA AG

Warranties, “As-Is” sales, and service contracts

Many used RVs are sold “as-is,” which limits remedies for latent defects. However, if a dealer sells a written service contract, federal and California warranty laws may apply in ways that affect your rights. Review the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act and California’s consumer warranty statutes before purchase.

• Magnuson-Moss basics: warranty terms must be clear and truthful; deceptive warranty claims are prohibited.
• If a written warranty or service contract is sold, you may acquire additional federal protections regarding the performance of covered repairs.
• For service-quality disputes, California’s Bureau of Automotive Repair (if a licensed shop is involved) accepts complaints: Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR).

Safety defects and recalls

RVs often have open recalls at the component or chassis level. Dealers and private sellers may be unaware. Always check the exact VIN on NHTSA before you buy and after delivery. If a serious safety defect is found or a recall repair is delayed, file a report with NHTSA.

• Check recalls by VIN: NHTSA Recall Lookup
• Report a safety problem: Report to NHTSA

Product and safety impact analysis

Water intrusion and structural integrity

Water leaks in RVs can lead to structural rot, delamination, mold, and electrical shorts. If buyers take delivery with marginal roof seals or hidden moisture, the repair scope can escalate from simple reseals to subfloor and wall rebuilds. Mold exposure presents health risks, and compromised framing can make the RV unsafe to tow or inhabit.

Propane system and electrical system faults

LP leaks, malfunctioning regulators, or ignition failures can create fire hazards. Electrical anomalies (overheating transfer switches, miswired outlets, failing converters/inverters) increase the risk of shock and fire. Thorough pre-purchase testing—preferably by an independent RV inspector—reduces these risks.

Tires, brakes, and chassis components

Old tires with acceptable tread can still be unsafe due to age-related dry rot. Brake issues and worn suspension components are common on older rigs. Always check DOT tire date codes, inspect brake pad thickness, and verify bearing service history before you buy. Do not tow or drive long-distance without confirming these systems are roadworthy.

Buyer’s checklist: How to protect yourself at SD RV & Auto

• Bring your own financing pre-approval. Compare to the dealer’s offer and question any rate disparities.
• Insist on a full, independent inspection with moisture testing and roof/slide checks. If denied, walk. Find an expert here: RV Inspectors near me.
• Get all promises in writing, including any “We’ll fix it after delivery” statements with dates and parts lists.
• Decline non-essential add-ons unless you have read the complete contract booklet and cost-benefit is clear.
• Bring a comprehensive PDI checklist and test every system under real conditions (shore power and generator; city water and fresh tank; furnace/AC; refrigerator over several hours).
• Check for open recalls (VIN-based) and demand recall documentation if applicable.
• Inspect tires, brakes, and undercarriage; ask for maintenance history and verify with receipts.
• Verify the title status matches the sales contract (no unexpected “salvage” or “rebuilt” designations).
• Document everything with photos and video at the lot.
• If you experience issues, escalate promptly and maintain a written trail; consider filing with BBB, DMV, AG, and FTC if necessary.

If you recently purchased here, what did you encounter during your PDI or delivery?

Context from public reviews and communities

While some buyers report smooth transactions at SD RV & Auto, low-star Google reviews highlight the risk areas above. Many negative accounts describe post-sale discoveries (leaks, appliances not working, electrical or brake problems) and frustration with service timelines or communication. Others report financing add-ons and interest rates that differed from expectations. Because experiences vary by unit, the most reliable step is to read firsthand accounts and verify them against dates, documentation, and outcomes.

• Start here and sort by “Lowest rating”: SD RV & Auto – Google Reviews
• Use the forum and Reddit links above to compare stories from independent communities.
• For real-world walkthroughs of what to check, watch investigative buyer tips like those from Liz Amazing’s RV channel and then apply them on the lot.

Have you interacted with SD RV & Auto sales or service? Share specifics so others can verify patterns.

If problems arise after purchase: escalation guide

Step 1: Written notice to the dealership

Send a dated letter or email that lists each defect with photos, your requested remedy, and a firm but reasonable deadline. Keep all communications in writing.

Step 2: Documented inspections and quotes

Obtain independent evaluations and repair estimates for major defects. This helps establish the severity of issues and supports claims under a service contract or post-sale negotiation.

Step 3: File with agencies and consumer platforms

• BBB complaint: can produce quick responses from management.
• California DMV: for title/registration delays or document issues.
• California AG: for deceptive practices or systemic issues.
• FTC: for advertising or financing misrepresentations.
• NHTSA: for safety defects or recall-eligible failures.

Balanced note: Any improvements or resolutions?

In fairness, some public reviews for SD RV & Auto note satisfactory resolutions or transactions that met expectations. A subset of buyers report units that performed as represented and responsive staff. However, negative patterns—particularly around unit condition, PDI thoroughness, paperwork timing, financing transparency, and post-sale support—appear often enough in low-star feedback that caution and meticulous due diligence are warranted.

Final assessment for SD RV & Auto (San Diego, CA)

This dealership operates as an independent seller in a high-risk product category (used RVs) where hidden defects and service delays are common. Public feedback indicates recurring issues with post-sale discoveries, PDI depth, and administrative follow-through. None of these risks are unique to SD RV & Auto—many RV dealers struggle with similar problems—but the concentration of low-star experiences should prompt extra diligence. Your best protections are a rigorous third-party inspection, written commitments, and a willingness to walk if you cannot verify condition, financing terms, and paperwork timelines.

Recommendation: Based on the volume and consistency of negative public feedback themes around condition discrepancies, PDI thoroughness, and administrative/service delays, we do not recommend purchasing from SD RV & Auto without first conducting an independent inspection and securing written remedies for all deficiencies. If the dealership declines a third-party inspection or cannot provide satisfactory documentation, consider other RV dealerships with stronger verified service records and transparent PDI processes.

Already bought or shopped here? Post your review to help the next buyer.