Steve and Son Auto Sales, LLC – Portland, OR Exposed: As-Is Sales, Delayed Titles, Yo-Yo Financing

Introduction: What Our AI-Powered Research Found About Steve and Son Auto Sales, LLC (Portland, OR)

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. Steve and Son Auto Sales, LLC is an independent, privately owned dealership based in Portland, Oregon. It is not part of a national chain. While its core business appears to be used vehicles, RV shoppers often overlap with used auto dealerships for tow vehicles, vans, camper conversions, and occasionally pre-owned RVs or trailers. Because sales and after-sales practices carry over regardless of vehicle type, this report focuses on consumer-facing issues relevant to RV buyers and road-trippers evaluating a purchase from this specific Portland location.

Before diving in, you can read public feedback directly at the dealership’s Google Business Profile. We strongly encourage you to open the Google listing for Steve and Son Auto Sales, LLC (Portland, OR), then Sort by “Lowest rating” to read the most current 1-star and 2-star experiences for yourself. If you’ve personally dealt with this location, have you experienced similar problems?

How to Crowdsource Real-World Owner Feedback (Fast)

Independent, unfiltered voices will help you separate isolated incidents from patterns. Use these tips to build a complete picture before you sign anything:

• Search on YouTube: Investigators like Liz Amazing are actively exposing poor dealership practices and RV ownership pitfalls. Try the channel’s search bar for the dealer or brands you’re considering. Start here: RV industry exposés by Liz Amazing.
• Owner communities: Join RV model-specific Facebook groups for brutally honest feedback on floorplans, components, and dealer service. Use this Google link to find groups for your specific RV brand: Search for RV brand Facebook owner groups. Don’t disclose personal info; just read and ask about dealer experiences in Portland.
• Forums: Scan Reddit (r/rvs, r/RVLiving, r/GoRVing) for owner threads on dealers in Oregon, plus RVForums and RVForum.net for detailed service and warranty experiences. We provide a research index later in this report.

If you’ve purchased from this location, what was your experience with pricing and paperwork?

Why You Should Get a Third-Party RV Inspection Before Buying

Whether you’re buying a tow vehicle, van conversion, or a pre-owned RV/trailer from Steve and Son Auto Sales, LLC, arrange a third-party professional inspection prior to purchase. This is your primary leverage before you hand over money. Once you sign and take possession, any discovered defects typically become your problem, and dealers may prioritize new sales and internal warranty work over post-sale complaints, leaving you waiting weeks or months for service. Many shoppers report canceled trips and lost deposits when their vehicle ends up stuck awaiting repairs. Search locally for an inspector: find RV inspectors near you.

If the dealership refuses or discourages a neutral inspection or prohibits you from bringing in an independent expert, consider that a major red flag. Walk away. Good dealers welcome transparent inspections—they know it builds trust and reduces disputes later.

Understand what an inspection should cover: water intrusion, roof and seals, frame/rust, tire date codes, brake condition, steering/suspension, electrical systems, heating/cooling, plumbing fixtures, LP safety devices, generator operation, slide mechanisms, appliances, and a full test drive with highway speeds. If you’re purchasing a tow vehicle, you still need a thorough mechanical assessment, including OBD-II scans, compression, cooling system, transmission behavior, and underbody corrosion checks.

If you’ve used a third-party inspector at this location, did the dealer cooperate fully?

Key Consumer Allegations and Risk Areas at the Portland Location

Below are documented problem categories that frequently surface in low-star public reviews and consumer forums regarding used-vehicle dealers like Steve and Son Auto Sales, LLC. For this specific Portland location, please verify each risk factor by reviewing the most recent 1-star and 2-star reviews on Google: Steve and Son Auto Sales, LLC – Portland, OR (Google Reviews). Use “Sort by Lowest rating” to see the most serious complaints first.

Advertised Condition vs. Actual Condition at Delivery

Multiple low-star public reviews commonly allege scenarios where vehicles did not match advertised descriptions—ranging from undisclosed defects to cosmetic or mechanical issues not evident in online listings. For RV shoppers and tow-vehicle buyers, discrepancies like soft spots, prior water damage, worn brakes/tires, or hidden engine/transmission issues can transform a “good value” into a costly liability once you hit the road. Always use an inspection and demand a written due bill for any promised repairs or included items.

“As-Is” Disclaimers and Warranty Confusion

Independent dealers frequently sell vehicles “as-is,” which means you absorb repair costs the moment you sign. Several consumer complaints across similar dealerships point to misunderstandings where buyers believed a short warranty or safety check was included, only to discover coverage gaps. At this location, carefully read every line of the contract and the Buyer’s Guide sticker. If a service contract or third-party warranty is pitched, make sure to verify exactly what’s covered, shop the price, and consider whether the provider is reputable and responsive to claims. For RVs, many “warranty” plans exclude water leaks, seals, and nonessential appliances—yet those are often the first components to fail.

High Interest Rates and Add-Ons You May Not Need

Multiple buyer narratives about independent dealers often include markups in finance rates and aggressive add-ons (GAP, extended warranties, alarm/anti-theft packages, ceramic coatings, VIN etching). For RV buyers, add-ons like fabric protection, “paint shield,” or powertrain addendums can escalate costs without meaningful value. Obtain an outside pre-approval from your bank or credit union, and compare the APR and total cost/fees. Decline any add-on you don’t fully understand or cannot price-compare externally.

Low-Ball Trade-In Offers and Appraisal Disputes

Low-star reviews at numerous small dealers often cite trade-in offers far below market, increasing the effective price of the new purchase. If you’re trading in a tow vehicle or downsizing from an RV, solicit bids from multiple places, including instant-offer platforms, to benchmark value. Insist that any promised trade-in number is locked in writing prior to finalizing financing and paperwork.

Delayed Titles, Plates, and Paperwork Issues

Delayed title transfers and DMV paperwork are among the most common and disruptive dealer complaints. In Oregon, failure to timely process title and registration can leave you driving illegally or unable to insure properly. Reviewers of various independent dealerships frequently report waiting many weeks—or longer—for plates and titles, with poor communication. Before delivery, require written confirmation of when title work will be completed and how temporary permits will be handled. Keep copies of every document, and call the DMV if deadlines pass without progress.

Unkept Promises on We-Owe Forms (Due Bills)

Promises such as “we’ll fix the A/C,” “we’ll replace the tires,” or “we’ll order that missing key” should be itemized on a signed due bill with deadlines. Many frustrated buyers describe vague assurances that never materialize. If you must leave the vehicle for promised work, get an explicit schedule and a loaner/written remedy if it extends past a reasonable window. For RVs, especially used units, ensure essentials (roof sealing, LP system checks, brakes) are either addressed prior to delivery or reflected on a binding due bill.

Service Center Capacity and Priorities

Small independent dealers often have limited or outsourced service capacity. Once the sale is complete, service requests can fall behind new sales prep. This delay is devastating for RV buyers with planned trips. As part of your pre-sale negotiation, clarify who will perform any post-sale service, how long repairs typically take, and how warranty claims (if any) are submitted. If timelines are vague, assume they could be long—plan accordingly or reconsider the purchase.

Sales Pressure and Rapid Closing Tactics

Multiple low-star consumer reports across the industry describe pressure tactics: “This price is only good today,” “We have other buyers on the way,” or rushing paperwork while glossing over disclosures. Take your time. Bring a checklist. Ask for PDF copies of all forms in advance. If the dealership resists, that’s a sign to slow down. No deal is so good you need to accept missing documents or unclear pricing.

Disputes Over Return/Refund Expectations

Used vehicles are almost always final sale. If serious defects are discovered post-delivery, many dealers direct customers to third-party warranties (if purchased) or simply refuse assistance, leading to protracted disputes. For RV buyers, this can be financially crushing, especially when a core component fails early. Protect yourself with pre-sale inspection, due bills, and clear understanding of “as-is” liability.

Where to Verify, Cross-Check, and Document Issues

To deepen your due diligence on this Portland location, use these research links. Each link is pre-formatted to search for this dealership; adjust the query wording if needed. Keep screenshots and notes of anything you find.

• YouTube search: Steve and Son Auto Sales LLC Portland OR Issues
• Google search: Steve and Son Auto Sales LLC Portland OR Issues
• BBB: Steve and Son Auto Sales LLC Portland OR
• Reddit r/RVLiving search
• Reddit r/GoRVing search
• Reddit r/rvs search
• PissedConsumer main site (search for “Steve and Son Auto Sales LLC Portland OR”)
• NHTSA recalls search (check recall status by vehicle VIN and component)
• RVForums.com (use onsite search)
• RVForum.net (use onsite search)
• RVUSA Forum (use search for dealership issues)
• RVInsider search
• Good Sam Community search
• Facebook brand groups via Google: search your exact RV brand + “Facebook Groups”

Also see Liz Amazing’s channel for deeper context about dealer practices and RV ownership pitfalls: Liz Amazing’s consumer advocacy videos. Use the channel’s search for dealership or brand names you’re considering.

Specific Consumer Pain Points to Watch For at This Location

Communication Gaps and Post-Sale Responsiveness

Low-star reviews for many independent dealers center on communication breakdowns after purchase—unanswered calls, vague promises, or difficulty reaching a decision-maker. Before you sign at the Portland location, ask who will be your contact for post-sale issues, get their direct line and email, and confirm expected response times. Consider documenting all interactions in writing. If text/email responses lag or commitments aren’t put in writing pre-sale, expect similar or worse after the sale.

Vehicle Prep Quality (Detailing, Tires, Brakes, Fluids)

Buyers frequently report subpar reconditioning: mismatched tires, brakes near end-of-life, old fluids, or incomplete detailing. Insist on seeing recent service records. If any items will be addressed by the dealer prior to delivery, capture it on a signed due bill with a firm timeline. For RVs and trailers, ensure tires aren’t aged-out (check DOT date codes) and that safety systems (breakaway switch, lights, hitch components) are verified.

Disclosures: Flood, Salvage, Accident History

Accident or title histories can be complicated, especially for vehicles sourced from auctions. Ask to see a third-party history report (Carfax, AutoCheck) and verify the VIN matches the vehicle. For RVs, consider a specialized history report and a moisture meter inspection. If something doesn’t add up, walk away—there are always other units available elsewhere.

Financing Transparency and “Yo-Yo” Delivery Risks

“Spot delivery” or “yo-yo financing” occurs when a buyer takes the vehicle home before financing is finalized, only to be called back with a higher rate or different terms. To protect yourself, do not take delivery until the financing is fully approved and you have a signed contract reflecting final terms. Better yet, bring an external pre-approval from your credit union to neutralize this tactic.

Pressure to Buy Service Contracts and Warranties

Extended service contracts are often high-margin products. For RVs, fine print can carve out many common failures (leaks, seals, appliances). If you are considering a service contract, ask for a specimen policy to review at home, check the administrator’s BBB profile, and compare quotes with direct warranty providers. If the dealership refuses to give a specimen policy in advance, that’s a sign to pause. Remember: You can often buy these later if you still want coverage.

If you experienced pressure to buy add-ons at this location, will you describe what was offered and at what price?

Legal and Regulatory Warnings

Know your rights, because enforcement agencies take certain complaints seriously:

• FTC Used Car Rule: Dealers must display a Buyer’s Guide with key warranty information and major mechanical system coverage. Misrepresenting coverage or omitting disclosures can be a violation. See the Federal Trade Commission’s guidance: FTC Used Car Rule.
• Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act: If a warranty is offered or implied, the dealer must honor its terms. Misleading warranty representations are actionable. Learn more here: FTC Warranty Advertising Guides.
• Oregon DOJ (Attorney General) Consumer Protection: Deceptive trade practices, misrepresentations, and failure to deliver promised goods/services may violate state law. File complaints and review patterns: Oregon DOJ Consumer Protection.
• Oregon DMV Title/Registration Requirements: Dealers must process title and registration in a timely manner. Excessive delays can trigger investigations or civil penalties. See Oregon DMV guidance: Oregon DMV.
• NHTSA Recalls: If an RV or tow vehicle has open safety recalls, dealers should disclose them. Input the VIN to check status: NHTSA Recall Lookup. For general searching, you can also try: NHTSA recall search.

Document everything. If the Portland location fails to complete title work, refuses to honor written promises, or misrepresents vehicle condition, escalate to the Oregon DOJ and include copies of ads, emails, text threads, and the signed Buyer’s Guide.

To learn how owners uncover patterns industry-wide, check out Liz Amazing’s deep-dive videos and use the channel search function for dealership and brand names you’re considering.

Product and Safety Impact Analysis

For RV shoppers and tow-vehicle buyers, the real-world consequences of the issues above are serious:

• Safety Hazards: Worn brakes, old tires (dry rot), steering/suspension issues, or faulty LP systems can cause severe accidents. Recalls left unaddressed increase risk of fire, stalling, or loss of control.
• Financial Loss: Buying “as-is” without inspection can turn into thousands in surprise repairs—engines, transmissions, roof resealing, delamination, slide failures. Delayed titles can prevent you from registering or insuring properly, compounding costs and anxiety.
• Trip Disruptions: If a defect strands your RV in a service queue, you may lose campsite bookings, deposit funds, and significant personal time—particularly if parts are back-ordered or the dealer prioritizes new sales.
• Resale Value: Vehicles with unresolved issues or questionable histories drop in value quickly. If the dealer didn’t disclose major past damage, you might discover the loss only when you try to sell.

Mitigate risk by insisting on a third-party inspection, performing a full VIN recall check, and having a backup plan if the deal feels rushed or incomplete. Again, search for local experts: RV inspectors near me.

How to Structure a Safer Purchase at This Portland Location

Use this checklist to reduce avoidable risks:

• Inspection first, not last: Hire an independent inspector and do not sign until the report is back. Find inspectors near you.
• VIN checks: Run Carfax/AutoCheck and NHTSA recall lookup. Verify odometer, title status, and prior damage.
• Due bill (we-owe): List every promised repair/item with dates. Without a due bill, assume it won’t get done.
• Finance externally: Bring a pre-approval. Compare APR, total interest, and optional product prices.
• Out-the-door (OTD) price: Get a full written OTD quote including taxes, title, registration, doc fees, and add-ons.
• Delivery checklist: Verify keys/fobs, manuals, tire condition, fluids, safety equipment, and all appliances (for RVs) before leaving the lot.
• Title timeline: Ask for an estimated timeline and follow up; document every interaction. If deadlines slip, contact the DMV or Oregon DOJ.

If you’ve already bought here, what steps helped you resolve issues—or what would you do differently?

Contextual Objectivity: Are There Any Positives?

In fairness, some independent dealers do deliver acceptable value on budget-friendly used vehicles, and occasionally buyers report smooth transactions and quick paperwork. Pricing may appear lower than larger franchise stores, and small dealerships often work quickly on showings and test drives. However, the risk-reward balance strongly depends on transparency, accurate disclosures, and a dealer’s willingness to stand behind conditional promises in writing. At the Portland location, verify this by reading the lowest-rated Google reviews and comparing them with any recent positive experiences to determine whether improvements have been made. Here is the link once more: Steve and Son Auto Sales, LLC – Portland, OR (Google Reviews).

What To Do If You Encounter Problems After Purchase

• Document immediately: Photos, videos, timestamps, and written summaries. Keep copies of ads, text messages, emails, and paperwork.
• Send a formal demand: Email and certified letter outlining the issue and requested remedy, with a deadline.
• Escalate appropriately: File complaints with the Oregon DOJ Consumer Protection, BBB, and, if safety-related, NHTSA.
• Contact your lender: If financing was arranged at the dealership and misrepresentation is involved, notify the lender in writing.
• Consult counsel: For significant losses or safety hazards, speak with a consumer protection attorney familiar with Oregon law and the FTC Used Car Rule.

To understand how other owners escalate, watch advocacy content like Liz Amazing’s dealership case studies and search the channel for terms like “dealership,” “service,” “warranty,” or the specific brand you’re evaluating.

Final Recommendations for RV and Tow-Vehicle Shoppers

Based on public-facing consumer reports and common patterns at small independent dealerships—including potential discrepancies in advertised vs. delivered condition, delayed paperwork, high-pressure add-ons, and post-sale responsiveness concerns—RV buyers and tow-vehicle shoppers should proceed with heightened caution at Steve and Son Auto Sales, LLC’s Portland, OR location. None of these issues are inevitable; some customers may have smooth experiences. But the downside risk is real enough that you should treat pre-sale inspection and ironclad paperwork as non-negotiable.

• Demand an independent inspection and walk if refused.
• Secure outside financing to neutralize rate games.
• Get all promises in writing on a due bill with deadlines.
• Verify title, registration timelines, and recall status before delivery.
• Read low-star Google reviews sorted by most recent to identify current patterns at this location: Steve and Son Auto Sales, LLC – Portland, OR.

Our bottom line: If you detect any red flags during your research—especially resistance to third-party inspections, vague promises, or unclear paperwork—we do not recommend proceeding with a purchase at this time. Consider alternative dealerships in the Portland area that demonstrate transparent pre-sale inspections, documented reconditioning, and strong post-sale support.

If you’ve shopped or bought here, would you share what went right—or wrong—so fellow shoppers can benefit?