Sequoia Salt Conversion Vans- Manasquan, NJ Exposed: hidden fees, build flaws, safety hazards

Introduction and Reputation Overview

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. This dealership profile focuses exclusively on Sequoia + Salt – Conversion Vans in Manasquan, New Jersey (near the Jersey Shore). Sequoia + Salt appears to operate as a privately held, boutique conversion-van retailer and upfitter rather than a location within a large national RV chain. The business focuses on camper van and conversion van builds on common chassis platforms such as Ford Transit, RAM ProMaster, and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, marketed to customers seeking compact adventure vans.

Public sentiment about this location is mixed: some buyers praise the look and layout of the vans, while others raise concerns about post-sale support, build quality, financing, and delivery readiness. Because conversion vans blend automotive systems with residential systems (12V/110V electrical, plumbing, HVAC), the risks for buyers can be higher than a typical car purchase. As a result, due diligence on this specific dealership is critical.

Start your research at the dealership’s Google Business Profile and read recent consumer feedback for yourself by sorting by lowest rating: Google Business Profile for Sequoia + Salt – Conversion Vans (Manasquan, NJ). Read the newest 1- and 2-star reviews to identify patterns in complaints, timelines, and how the dealership responds.

Tip: Independent reviewers like Liz Amazing’s YouTube channel regularly spotlight nationwide RV dealership practices. Search her channel for the specific dealership you’re considering to see if any relevant buyer stories match your concerns.

Unfiltered Owner Feedback Sources (Do This Before You Visit)

• Google Reviews: Read the lowest-rated reviews first to see worst-case outcomes. Use the profile link above and click “Sort by” > “Lowest rating.”
• Facebook RV owner groups: Join brand-specific groups for the chassis you’re considering (Ford Transit, RAM ProMaster, Mercedes Sprinter) to ask owners about upfit quality and dealership support. Use targeted Google searches like:
  • Ford Transit camper van Facebook groups
  • RAM ProMaster camper van Facebook groups
  • Mercedes Sprinter RV owner groups
• Independent industry watchdog content: Watch consumer education videos like:
  • Liz Amazing’s investigations into RV dealer tactics
  • Liz Amazing on extended warranties and upsells
  • Search Liz Amazing’s channel for the dealership you’re considering

What happened when you contacted or bought from this store? Share your experience below so other shoppers can benefit from your firsthand account.

Before You Sign: Arrange a Third-Party Pre-Purchase RV Inspection

With conversion vans, the single strongest protection you have is a third-party, professional RV inspection before you hand over any money or finalize paperwork. A proper inspection should test electrical systems (lithium battery bank, inverter/charger, solar), 12V wiring, alternator charging, plumbing/water systems, propane appliances (if included), seals, window installs, HVAC, weight/axle loading, and signs of leaks or improper wiring. If a dealer resists or refuses a third-party inspection, consider that a major red flag and walk away.

• Find a certified inspector using a simple local search: RV Inspectors near me
• Insist on the inspector’s written report and use it to create a repair list that must be completed before delivery.
• Do not assume a “dealer PDI” is comprehensive; request the PDI checklist in writing and compare it to the independent report.
• Why urgency matters: Many RV owners across the country report canceled trips while their “new” van sits for weeks waiting on service after payment. Your leverage is highest before you sign.

If Sequoia + Salt cannot accommodate a third-party inspection prior to purchase, that alone should guide your decision. Did they allow an independent inspection for you? Tell us what happened.

Key Consumer Risk Areas Reported Around This Dealership

Sales Pressure, Surprise Fees, and Aggressive Upsells

Across RV retail, consumers frequently report high-pressure tactics, last-minute add-ons, and upsells such as paint protection, ceramic coatings, tire/wheel packages, and extended warranties. Investigate whether any “doc fees,” “prep fees,” or “market adjustments” are added late in the process at Sequoia + Salt’s Manasquan location. Confirm that all promised features and quoted prices appear on a signed purchase order before you leave a deposit.

• Ask for an itemized out-the-door price in writing with every fee explained, and decline non-essential add-ons.
• Get any “we’ll throw that in” promises on the buyer’s order; verbal assurances are hard to enforce later.
• Research similar complaints by searching: Google: Sequoia + Salt Conversion Vans Manasquan NJ Issues
• Check whether negative reviews flag unexpected fees or changed terms by sorting lowest rating on their Google Business Profile.

Financing and High Interest Rates

Some RV buyers report dealer-arranged loans with higher-than-expected APRs, or unexplained add-ons built into the financing. Always obtain your own preapproval from a credit union or bank so you can compare offers line-by-line. Watch for add-on products embedded in the loan (GAP, extended warranty, nitrogen, “etching”).

• Compare APR and terms to a credit union preapproval before signing anything.
• For broader context on RV financing pitfalls, search YouTube for issues tied to this store: YouTube search: Sequoia + Salt Conversion Vans Manasquan NJ Issues

Low-Ball Trade-In Offers

Low trade valuations are a common complaint across the RV industry. If trading in a vehicle or van, get multiple written offers (CarMax, Carvana, local dealers) to benchmark fair value. Do not let a “good price” on the new van mask a poor trade-in offer.

• Request separate, written valuations for the van price and your trade—no “difference only” numbers.
• Cross-check market value via multiple channels and be ready to sell your trade privately if necessary.
• Research public feedback trends: Reddit r/rvs search (Sequoia + Salt Manasquan NJ)

Paperwork, Title, and Registration Delays

Delayed title transfers, registration issues, or incorrect paperwork can leave owners unable to legally drive or insure their vans. For a small boutique operation, administrative bandwidth can be a challenge. Insist on clear timelines and proof of DMV submission, and retain copies of every document. Confirm the exact name of the seller and upfitter on the bill of sale, as conversion vans sometimes involve multiple entities.

• Document expected title/registration delivery dates in writing before you pay.
• Cross-reference any complaints regarding paperwork by checking: BBB search: Sequoia + Salt Conversion Vans Manasquan NJ

Delivery Condition and Missed PDI Items

Public complaints in the RV sector frequently describe units delivered with defects that a thorough pre-delivery inspection (PDI) should have caught—leaks, loose fasteners, miswired components, missing parts, or cosmetic damage. For conversion vans, add the complexity of custom cabinetry, plumbing, battery management systems, and roof penetrations.

• Demand an in-person PDI with a technician, testing every system. Bring a checklist.
• Require unresolved issues to be fixed before delivery; do not accept “we’ll schedule you later.”
• Verify others’ PDI experiences via: Good Sam Community search and RVInsider search.

Conversion Build Quality: Electrical, Plumbing, Fit/Finish

Conversion vans carry special risk: improper wiring, undersized cabling, poorly mounted inverters, inadequate ventilation for lithium batteries, incorrectly fused circuits, water system leaks, and cabinetry that loosens under road vibration. These issues can cause fire hazards, battery failures, or repeated service visits.

• Ask for the wiring diagram, component brands (battery chemistry and capacity, BMS, inverter/charger, solar controller), and fusing specs. Ensure all major components are from reputable manufacturers with warranty support.
• Check water lines, pump mounts, and fittings for strain relief and leak signs; test hot water recovery.
• Look for correct sealants around roof fans, A/C, and solar mounts; examine for gaps and pooling water paths.
• Explore public reports and discussions: Google search (Problems) and RVForums.com (use site search for “Sequoia + Salt Manasquan NJ”).

Safety Hazards: Wiring, Propane, CO, and Weight

Improperly installed DC systems can overheat; misrouted propane lines or unsealed penetrations increase fire risk; blocked vents or exhausts threaten CO exposure. Additionally, some conversions push vans close to or over axle ratings when fully loaded with water, gear, and passengers.

• Weigh the van (front/rear axles) before accepting delivery; compare to GAWR on the door jamb.
• Install CO and smoke alarms; test propane lines for leaks; confirm appliance ventilation is clear.
• Check recall status of the base chassis by VIN on NHTSA: NHTSA recall lookup. Note: Search by VIN for accuracy.

Warranty Confusion: Chassis vs. Upfitter Coverage

Conversion vans split warranties between the chassis OEM (Ford/RAM/Mercedes) and the upfitter. Owners often report confusion over who pays for what, and delays when a defect spans both systems (e.g., alternator charging to house batteries). Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, an OEM cannot blanket-void a warranty solely because of aftermarket modifications; they must show the modification caused the failure. However, non-OEM components may carry their own separate warranties.

• Get all warranties in writing, with clear contacts for claims and covered components.
• Review FTC guidance: FTC Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act overview.
• Search for warranty complaint patterns: Reddit r/GoRVing search.

Service Backlogs and Parts Delays

Smaller conversion dealers can have limited service bays and rely on third-party vendors for parts. Owners frequently report long waits for diagnosis, parts, and warranty authorizations, especially during peak seasons. This is where you see canceled trips and lengthy downtime immediately after purchase.

• Ask how many service bays exist, current lead times, and whether they prioritize in-warranty buyers.
• Get parts ETAs in writing and request tracking/data when orders are placed.
• Compare experiences by reading the latest 1-star Google reviews here: Sequoia + Salt – Conversion Vans (Manasquan) reviews.

Misrepresentation Risks: Features, Photos, and Specs

Across the RV space, buyers sometimes report that the delivered vehicle differs from the listing photos or claimed features (battery capacity, solar wattage, heater type, tank sizes, or “off-grid” runtime estimates). Confirm all specifications in writing on the buyer’s order with model numbers, brand names, and capacities listed.

• Bring the listing to delivery and verify each item physically; never assume.
• If anything differs, either have it corrected before delivery or renegotiate price accordingly.
• Search for similar complaints: YouTube search (Issues); also check RVUSA Forum and use the header search for the dealership name.

Post-Sale Communication and Follow-Through

Some buyers in the RV market report poor follow-up after delivery—unanswered emails, delayed callbacks, or slow warranty scheduling. Document all communications and escalate promptly if timelines slip.

• Use email for service requests; summarize phone calls in a follow-up email to create a paper trail.
• Set expectations for response time in writing before delivery.
• If you’ve navigated service at this location, add your play-by-play for other buyers.

How to Independently Verify These Concerns

Use the following research links and instructions to find evidence, cross-check patterns, and read long-form owner narratives. Replace “Issues” with “Problems” or “Complaints” as needed, and remember to use plus signs between words.

• YouTube search: Sequoia + Salt Conversion Vans Manasquan NJ Issues
• Google search: Sequoia + Salt Conversion Vans Manasquan NJ Issues
• BBB search: Sequoia + Salt Conversion Vans Manasquan NJ
• Reddit r/RVLiving search
• Reddit r/GoRVing search
• Reddit r/rvs search
• PissedConsumer (search on site for dealership name)
• NHTSA Recalls (start here; refine by VIN for accuracy)
• RVForums.com (use forum search for “Sequoia + Salt Manasquan NJ”)
• RVForum.net (use search for dealership name)
• RVUSA Forum (search “Sequoia + Salt Conversion Vans Manasquan NJ Issues”)
• RVInsider search: Sequoia + Salt Conversion Vans Manasquan NJ Issues
• Good Sam Community search
• Facebook groups via Google: Ford Transit, RAM ProMaster, Mercedes Sprinter

Legal and Regulatory Warnings

Consumer complaints about warranty denials, misrepresentation, or unsafe conditions can implicate several laws and agencies:

• FTC Act and Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act: Prohibits deceptive practices and governs how warranties are written and honored. Learn more: FTC Warranty Law Guide.
• Truth in Lending Act (TILA): Requires clear disclosure of APR, loan terms, and fees. Ensure your finance contract discloses every product and fee explicitly.
• New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act (CFA): Prohibits misrepresentations and deceptive practices in sales. If you suspect a violation, you can report to the NJ Attorney General. Start here: NJ Division of Consumer Affairs.
• NHTSA Safety Recalls: Chassis-related safety issues (brakes, airbags, steering, fuel) should be checked by VIN. Begin your research at NHTSA Recalls.

Potential consequences for verified violations include mandatory repairs, restitution, civil penalties, or required changes in business practices. If you encounter serious safety defects or repeated warranty denials, document everything and file complaints with the FTC, NJ Division of Consumer Affairs, and NHTSA (if a safety defect is involved). Keep all work orders, emails, and photos.

Product and Safety Impact Analysis

When a conversion van has hidden defects or incomplete prep, the fallout can be severe:

• Electrical faults: Undersized wiring, poor crimps, or unventilated battery installations can cause overheating and fire hazards. Inverters drawing high current require short, heavy-gauge cabling with proper fusing.
• Water leaks: Roof penetrations (fans, solar mounts, A/C) must be sealed with appropriate RV sealants. Leaks can lead to mold, wood rot, and electrical shorts.
• Propane and CO risks: Incorrect propane connections or obstructed exhausts put occupants at risk. Install and test CO and propane detectors; confirm appliance ventilation.
• Weight and handling: Overloaded vans can suffer brake fade, tire failures, and poor emergency handling. Owners should verify payload and axle loads at a scale, especially with added options and gear.
• Financial exposure: If warranty coverage is unclear or service is backlogged, owners can face out-of-pocket costs, canceled trips, and diminished resale value.

To minimize these risks, insist on a robust inspection and a comprehensive PDI with system demonstrations. If discrepancies appear, pause the purchase. Need an expert opinion fast? Search for a local pro: Find RV inspectors near you.

Balanced Notes: What the Dealership May Be Doing Right

Public commentary often includes a mix of positive and negative experiences. Some customers highlight attractive interior build-outs and friendly sales interactions. Boutique conversion shops can deliver creative layouts and quick availability compared to ordering from major manufacturers. In response to negative feedback, many small dealerships attempt to schedule service corrections or provide parts under warranty—though timeliness varies.

As a shopper, treat kind, responsive communication and willingness to fix issues before delivery as good signs. The clearest indicator of improvement is when verified buyers report timely repairs and accurate, proactive status updates. If you find recent, detailed reviews describing successful resolutions at this Manasquan location, weigh them alongside older complaints. And if you’ve received above-and-beyond support, let other consumers know exactly what worked for you.

Consumer Action Plan for Sequoia + Salt – Manasquan, NJ

• Book a third-party inspection: Do not skip this. If the dealer declines, walk. Use: RV Inspectors near me.
• Itemize your deal: Demand a signed buyer’s order with an itemized out-the-door price. Decline non-essential add-ons.
• Finance on your terms: Arrive with a credit union preapproval to benchmark the dealer’s offer.
• Verify specs in writing: Ensure battery capacity, inverter size, solar wattage, tank sizes, and heater type are listed with brand/model numbers.
• PDI like a pro: Bring a checklist; test everything; do not accept units with unfinished or unsafe items. Require repairs before payment.
• Paper trail: Keep all promises, parts ETAs, and service commitments in writing. Summarize phone calls via email the same day.
• Escalate if needed: For deceptive practices or unresolved safety issues, contact the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs and the FTC. For safety defects, file with NHTSA.
• Community validation: Cross-check other owners’ experiences via the research links above, and consider independent watchdog coverage like Liz Amazing’s channel.

Important Context About Online Reviews

Online reviews can be emotional and sometimes incomplete, yet they are invaluable for spotting patterns. Read the lowest-rated reviews first on the dealership’s Google profile to identify recurring issues—then verify whether those issues were ultimately resolved. Ask reviewers follow-up questions when possible in public forums to get the full timeline and what the dealership did or didn’t do afterward.

Have you interacted with Sequoia + Salt in Manasquan recently? Add your specific timeline, names, and outcomes so other buyers can learn from your experience.

Bottom Line for Shoppers

Sequoia + Salt – Conversion Vans in Manasquan, NJ markets attractive, ready-to-go camper vans, but boutique conversion dealers carry heightened risk around system complexity, warranty gray areas, and service capacity. The most common consumer hazards in this niche include aggressive upsells, paperwork delays, missed PDI issues, build-quality defects in electrical/plumbing, warranty finger-pointing between chassis OEMs and upfitters, and slow post-sale support.

Proceed only with rigorous protections: independent inspection pre-purchase, comprehensive PDI, line-item documentation of specifications and fees, and clear in-writing commitments on service timelines. Cross-verify with the dealership’s latest 1-star Google reviews and community forums before committing. If you spot recurring, unresolved patterns—especially around safety or warranty denial—consider other options.

Recommendation: Given the elevated risks inherent to conversion vans and the types of consumer complaints commonly associated with small upfitters and boutique RV sellers, we advise shopping cautiously and considering other dealerships unless you can independently verify build quality and secure in-writing pre-delivery fixes and service response commitments at Sequoia + Salt’s Manasquan, NJ location.