Sell My RV CA- Riverside, CA Exposed: Hidden defects, title delays—insist on 3rd-party inspection

(Serious Concern)

Across the RV industry, buyer complaints frequently stem from defects revealed only after delivery: soft flooring, hidden water intrusion, delamination, slide issues, inoperable appliances, roof seal failures, frame or axle problems, and electrical or propane system faults. Once the dealer has your money and the unit is titled, service timelines can stretch for weeks or months—ruining travel plans while your RV sits in a queue. Many frustrated buyers report canceled camping trips and lost deposits because repairs dragged on.

• Hire a professional, independent RV inspector before you commit. Use a local search: find RV inspectors near you.
• Write your final sale contingent on a clean inspection report and a completed “we-owe” list in writing.
• If a dealership refuses to allow a third-party inspection, that is a major red flag—walk away.

Consider sharing whether this Riverside location welcomed or discouraged outside inspections. Tell future buyers how it went.

(Serious Concern)

In multiple public reviews of used-RV dealers, buyers describe high-pressure sales environments and “today-only” pricing. With pre-owned units, “as-is” terms are common, but that does not excuse misrepresentation. Shoppers should watch for:

• Discrepancies between verbal statements and the buyer’s order.
• Condition claims that are not backed by written inspection results.
• Units presented as “camp-ready” when routine maintenance (seals, tires, batteries, LP system checks) is overdue.

Insist that all representations about condition, included accessories, and any fixes be detailed in writing on the purchase contract.

(Serious Concern)

Common buyer complaints after delivery include water leaks, roof and sealant failures, soft floors, slide malfunctions, non-functioning refrigerators or water heaters, and lighting or 12V faults. A thorough PDI should catch many of these. Ask the dealer to provide a signed PDI checklist with line-item results and photos.

• Request roof photos and sealant dates; look for cracked caulking or pooling water.
• Demand a full systems demo under load (shore power, generator, freshwater, city water, LP appliances).
• Use an infrared thermometer and moisture meter during your own or third-party inspection.

If this Riverside location advertises “fully inspected” units, get proof—checklists, technician names, and repair invoices.

(Serious Concern)

Slow title transfer and registration are recurring pain points in dealership complaints. Extended delays can prevent you from traveling legally or transferring insurance. In California, dealers have statutory duties to process and transmit paperwork promptly under Vehicle Code section 4456.

• Do not take delivery without a clear timeline in writing for title and registration.
• If temporary tags or permits are issued, know the expiration date and renewal process.
• Follow up early; escalate to the California DMV Occupational Licensing office if necessary.

Reference: California Vehicle Code and the DMV complaint portal for licensed dealers: California DMV Occupational Licensing Complaint.

(Moderate Concern)

Low-ball trade offers and last-minute valuation changes are a frequent frustration. With used RVs, condition surprises can legitimately alter value—but consumers often allege that “reconditioning” charges or deductions were not explained until the signing table.

• Get a written ballpark appraisal before travel and a guaranteed minimum value subject to a pre-agreed inspection.
• Bring your own comps (NADA/J.D. Power guides, comparable listings) and current maintenance documentation.
• Be ready to walk if the final offer deviates materially from pre-visit discussions without clear justification.

(Moderate Concern)

Consumers often discover that the lowest-rate lender approval was not presented, or that optional add-ons (service contracts, GAP, tire-and-wheel, interior protection) were bundled into payments without clear consent. Many add-ons offer limited value and complicated claim processes.

• Obtain your own pre-approval before stepping into F&I. Compare the APR and total cost carefully.
• Decline all add-ons until you’ve read the exclusions. Most can be added later if you truly want them.
• Ask for a menu of products with itemized pricing and signatures acknowledging acceptance or declination.

Learn more about dealership add-on practices from independent advocates; search within Liz Amazing’s channel for “add-ons” and “warranties”: Liz Amazing’s buyer-protection content.

(Serious Concern)

Multiple buyers across the sector report radio silence after sale, slow parts ordering, and difficulty securing timely repairs, especially on as-is units or those with third-party service contracts. Make sure you understand, in writing, what the dealership will and will not cover post-sale.

• Before paying, require an itemized “we-owe” list with deadlines and escalation steps.
• Clarify whether service is in-house or outsourced, and request text/email updates at pre-set intervals.
• Ask for the service manager’s direct contact details and hours.

(Moderate Concern)

Businesses that buy RVs or accept consignments sometimes face disputes over pricing, storage, timeline to pay the seller, and reconditioning fees deducted from proceeds. If you are selling:

• Get the consignment agreement in writing, including agreed list price, minimum net to you, and term length.
• Define exactly which fees will be charged and set caps on reconditioning without your approval.
• Insist on prompt notification and funds delivery upon sale, with clear escrow terms.

(Serious Concern)

Used RVs often carry open recalls on chassis components, appliances, or safety systems. Dealers should disclose what they know, but ultimate diligence falls on the buyer. Verify recall status by VIN and the model year of both the RV and chassis (Ford, Chevy, Freightliner, etc.). Failure to address safety recalls can expose you to real risk: LP leaks, brake or axle defects, fire hazards, and egress issues.

• Check recalls here: NHTSA Recall Lookup.
• Demand written confirmation of recall status and who pays for the remedy.
• Refuse delivery if a serious safety recall is outstanding and the fix is not scheduled in writing.

(Moderate Concern)

When buyers allege miscommunication, it typically ties back to unclear written documentation. Protect yourself by making the written deal jacket airtight.

• Everything promised verbally must appear on the buyer’s order, due bill, or a signed addendum.
• Ask for texts or emails that summarize key updates so a paper trail exists if disputes arise.
• If something feels rushed or incomplete, pause the deal and request a revised contract.

(Serious Concern)

Based on patterns in public complaints across the RV sector, these are the most relevant legal frameworks for California buyers:

• Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act governs written warranties and service contracts; misleading claims or failure to honor a warranty can trigger remedies: FTC – Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.
• California’s Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act provides warranty-related protections for consumer goods; consult counsel about applicability to your RV: CA Attorney General – Lemon Law overview.
• California Vehicle Code 4456 and DMV rules require prompt processing of title/registration; failing this can merit a complaint: DMV Dealer/Auto Broker Complaint Portal.
• Advertising and sales practice rules enforced by the FTC; unfair or deceptive tactics can draw enforcement: FTC – Auto Dealers: Advertising and Credit Practices.
• Financing disputes or add-on abuses can be reported to the CFPB: File a finance complaint with CFPB.

If you encounter unresolved issues with this Riverside dealership, document everything, then consider escalating via the California DMV Occupational Licensing division and the California Attorney General’s office.

(Serious Concern)

Commonly reported RV defects have serious safety and financial consequences when not addressed before delivery:

• Roof leaks and soft floors: structural damage, mold growth, costly subfloor repairs that can exceed thousands of dollars.
• LP system leaks or faulty appliances: fire and carbon monoxide risks; always require leak-down tests and detector functionality checks.
• Slide malfunctions: shear-pin failures or motor issues can trap occupants or damage sidewalls.
• Brake, axle, or suspension problems: increased stopping distance, blowouts, loss of control—especially dangerous on mountain passes and in high winds.
• Electrical faults: battery charging, converter/charger failures, and miswired circuits can lead to fire hazards.

Every one of these items should be part of your independent inspection scope. Again, line up a pro and make your purchase contingent: book an RV inspector. If a dealership refuses this step, choose another seller.

(Serious Concern)

• Research: Read the lowest-rated reviews on Google at this link: Sell My RV CA — Riverside reviews. Cross-check across forums and BBB.
• Inspection: Hire a third-party inspector and make the deal contingent on their written report. Find inspectors near you.
• Financing: Secure your own pre-approval; compare APR and avoid dealer add-ons you don’t need.
• Documentation: Put every promise and repair in writing with dates and responsible parties. Get a signed PDI checklist.
• Recalls: Verify by VIN on NHTSA.gov; don’t accept delivery with open safety recalls.
• Delivery: Conduct a full system demo and road test if possible; confirm you have all keys, remotes, manuals, and access codes.

(Serious Concern)

• Condition disputes: Buyers alleging the RV had defects not disclosed prior to sale (water leaks, electrical faults, appliance failures).
• Post-sale delays: Parts or repairs taking longer than expected, and difficulty getting updates.
• Paperwork and title: Reports of waiting for plates, registration, or title transfer past a reasonable window.
• Communication: Mixed accounts of responsiveness after the check clears, especially for as-is purchases.

Always verify these claims directly on the review page: Sort by “Lowest rating” here. Look for specific dates, unit details, and whether management responded with a fix. Your firsthand account can help others, too—tell us what you experienced.

(Moderate Concern)

• Independent inspection allowed onsite or offsite before signing; dealer to provide temporary power/water/LP for systems tests.
• Signed PDI checklist with detailed notes and photos; correction of deficiencies before delivery, with a dated due bill.
• Written confirmation of title/registration submission timelines and handling of any out-of-state title transfer complexity.
• Itemized finance menu; no add-ons without signatures; option to remove add-ons and reprint the contract.
• Recall status letter with VIN and who pays for applicable fixes; refusal to deliver with open safety recalls.
• Road test permission and confirmation that the generator, HVAC, slides, leveling, and appliances function as represented.