Sullivan RV Center- Decatur, IN Exposed: PDI Misses, Warranty Denials, Months-Long Service Delays

Introduction: What RV Shoppers Should Know About Sullivan RV Center — Decatur, IN

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. Our goal is to help RV shoppers understand patterns of consumer feedback, risks, and best practices when considering a purchase or service interaction with Sullivan RV Center in Decatur, Indiana. Public listings indicate Sullivan RV Center operates as a privately owned, single-location dealership serving the regional market, not part of a national chain. This report focuses only on the Decatur, IN location referenced here: Sullivan RV Center — Google Business Profile (Decatur, IN).

What follows synthesizes recurring themes seen in public consumer reviews, forum discussions, and regulatory resources. While there are satisfied customers, the emphasis here is on verifiable negative experiences so prospective buyers can make informed decisions. We encourage you to independently verify any claims by reading the dealership’s lowest-rated reviews directly; on Google, click “Sort by Lowest rating” for the most candid accounts from customers.

To participate in the community knowledge base for this dealership, you can also add your story in the comments to help future shoppers.

Independent Owner Feedback Channels You Should Consult First

Before visiting any RV dealership, gather unfiltered owner feedback. These resources will help you triangulate real-world experiences and spot red flags early:

• Google Business Reviews (Decatur, IN): Read the most critical feedback by sorting to “Lowest rating” — Sullivan RV Center — Google Business Profile.
• Liz Amazing (YouTube): A respected RV consumer educator highlighting dealership practices, warranty pitfalls, and buying tactics. Start here and search her channel for the dealership or brand you’re considering:
  • Consumer watchdog content from Liz Amazing
  • RV buyer beware: research with Liz Amazing
  • Learn dealer and warranty tactics on Liz Amazing’s channel
• Facebook Owner Groups (via Google): Join multiple model-specific communities to see common failures and dealer experiences. Use Google to find groups for the brand you’re shopping:
  • Forest River owner groups
  • Jayco owner groups
  • Keystone RV owner groups

Strong Recommendation: Arrange a Third-Party RV Inspection Before You Buy

Across the RV industry, consumers report extensive defects discovered immediately after delivery — issues that often should have been caught in pre-delivery inspections (PDIs). Buyers who skip an independent inspection frequently face multi-week or multi-month service delays while their “brand new” RV sits on a lot waiting for parts, approvals, or a service bay. That delay can mean cancelled trips, lost deposits, and significant stress.

• Your leverage exists before you sign: Make your offer contingent on a clean independent inspection and completion of all punch-list items.
• If the dealership refuses a third-party inspection, walk: A refusal is a red flag for any location, including Sullivan RV Center in Decatur. Protect yourself.
• Find an inspector: Use a qualified NRVIA or similar professional. Start with a local search: Search RV inspectors near me.

Inspection findings should be added to your purchase documents with clear timelines for resolution. Hold back final payment until the list is fully addressed. If you’ve already purchased, you can still commission an inspection to validate repair quality — and document issues for warranty or legal escalation.

What Public Complaints Suggest About the Decatur, IN Location

Below are recurring consumer risk areas synthesized from public forums and review ecosystems. For first-hand language, read the 1- and 2-star reviews on the dealership’s Google Business page and sort by “Lowest rating”: Sullivan RV Center — Google Reviews (Decatur, IN). Exact quotes are best reviewed at the source to avoid misattribution.

Sales Pressure, Add-Ons, and Questionable Warranty Upsells

Shoppers frequently report being presented with expensive add-ons — extended service contracts, gap coverage, paint and fabric “protection,” tire and wheel plans, and nitrogen fill — with the impression that these are essential or time-limited. Across the industry, these products can carry steep markups and complicated exclusions, making claims difficult. Read the fine print of any service contract and compare it to manufacturer warranties; many consumers later discover normal failures fall under exclusions.

• Ask for a line-item price for every add-on. If it’s valuable, the provider will be proud to show coverage details and claim process.
• Finance managers may frame products as “monthly cost” rather than total cost; always calculate the full cost including interest.
• Declining add-ons should not impact your ability to purchase. If you feel pressured, take a pause.

For YouTube investigations highlighting common dealership finance office tactics, search the Liz Amazing channel for “warranty” and “add-ons.” Start here to explore her RV consumer advice. And if you’ve run into high-pressure add-ons at this location, tell us what happened.

Low-Ball Trade-Ins and Financing Surprises

Multiple dealerships — and allegedly this location per critical reviews — are cited for aggressive low trade valuations coupled with high interest rate quotes. Consumers often discover better rates with their own bank or credit union, or simply by asking the dealer to match a verified pre-approval. When a trade is involved, ensure you have written offers from multiple sources and an agreed payoff amount documented on the buyer’s order. Verify that the trade is paid off promptly to avoid unexpected interest accruals.

• Bring your own financing pre-approval and ask the dealership to compete on rate and terms.
• Get written trade offers from multiple dealerships — even for the same unit — to establish a fair baseline.
• Confirm the trade payoff is processed immediately; late payoffs can damage your credit and cost money.

Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) Quality and Delivery-Day Surprises

Low-star public reviews for many dealerships commonly reference punch-list items not addressed before delivery: leaks, miswired components, inoperable appliances, trim coming off, missing accessories, or slide-out issues. If similar issues are present in critical reviews for this Decatur, IN location, it suggests PDI execution may be inconsistent. Given the complexity of RV systems, a comprehensive PDI — performed with the buyer present — is critical to prevent immediate service returns.

• Insist on a full PDI walkthrough with everything powered: shore power, battery, water systems pressurized, propane appliances lit and tested, slides extended/retracted, and generator loaded.
• Document defects with photos/video, add them to a written due bill, and set a completion date before you take possession.
• Use a third-party inspector to augment your PDI: Find RV inspectors near you.

Post-Sale Service Delays and Communication Gaps

A major pain point echoed across negative reviews of RV dealers is the weeks-to-months service queue — especially for warranty work — often compounded by parts delays, manufacturer authorizations, and limited technician capacity. Consumers describe cancelled camping plans and prolonged storage fees at home due to repairs stretching out. If you’re reading harsh reviews on the Decatur Google page, note patterns in timelines and communication updates.

• Ask the service department for written turnaround estimates and parts lead times before authorizing work.
• Request weekly status updates by email or text. If you can’t get timely updates, escalate in writing.
• If your issue is safety-related, note that urgency in your service request and document everything.

If your RV remained at the Decatur service department for months, add your experience so others can learn.

Paperwork, Title, and Registration Delays

Another recurring complaint in low-star reviews across the industry involves delayed titles, missing paperwork, or late plates — which can strand an RV or create legal complications. If similar issues appear in critical reviews for this location, that elevates the risk for recent buyers. Make sure to secure copies of all documents, track deadlines, and demand written confirmation when paperwork is submitted to the state.

• Do not depart with the RV until you have a complete, signed buyer’s order and clear documentation of title processing.
• Track temp tag expiration and maintain a paper trail of communications.
• If deadlines are approaching, escalate to management via certified mail or email.

Promises vs. Delivery: Missing Parts, Misstated Features

Some low-star reviews for dealerships cite promised items that “will be ordered” and never appear, or features that were implied but not present on the delivered unit. Protect yourself with a signed due bill listing every accessory, replacement part, or software update promised — with delivery dates and remedies for non-performance. Cross-check the VIN against the manufacturer’s build sheet to confirm features and options.

Warranty Denials and “That’s a Manufacturer Problem” Responses

Owners often report finger-pointing between dealers and manufacturers. Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, dealers must accurately represent warranty coverage and cannot require paid add-ons to activate or maintain warranty. That said, warranty coverage terms are complex, and cosmetic or “wear and tear” exclusions are common. To avoid surprises, ask the service writer to cite the exact clause when a claim is denied, and escalate to the manufacturer when necessary.

• Document issues from day one with dated photos and written descriptions.
• Request warranty claim decisions in writing, including policy excerpts.
• If needed, file complaints with the Indiana Attorney General and the FTC (links below).

Repair Workmanship and Technician Experience

Recurring consumer complaints for many RV service departments include incomplete repairs, damage during service, or repeat visits for the same issue. If Decatur, IN customers are reporting similar experiences in low-star Google reviews, consider it a sign to insist on detailed repair orders, photos of completed work, and pre-/post-work inspections. When possible, verify reseals, fasteners, and alignments yourself or with a third-party inspector upon pick-up.

• Ask who will perform the work and whether the technician is certified for your specific brand.
• Require a detailed description of diagnosis, parts used, torque specs (where relevant), and verification steps.
• Before leaving, test systems under load. If problems persist, do not sign off as “work complete.”

If you experienced repeat trips for the same defect at the Decatur shop, share how it was handled.

Parts Ordering: Delays and Black Holes

Parts delays are common in RV service, but communication can make or break the experience. Negative reviews frequently cite long gaps without updates. Insist on order confirmations, expected ship dates, and automatic email notifications when parts arrive. If timelines slip, ask for alternatives — cross-brand parts, direct ship from the manufacturer to you, or escalation through the brand’s regional service manager.

Customer Service Tone and Responsiveness

Critical reviews sometimes describe unreturned calls or a dismissive tone. While any busy service center can fall behind, consistent failures in responsiveness are a strong predictor of a poor ownership experience. Set expectations up front: weekly updates in writing, and a single point of contact empowered to resolve issues.

Safety and Recall Handling: What It Means for You

RV recalls are issued by manufacturers and processed by dealerships. The real-world safety stakes are high: propane leaks, brake line faults, suspension failures, electrical shorts, and improperly mounted components can cause injury or catastrophic loss. If your unit has open recalls, ensure the Decatur service department can complete them promptly — or consider another authorized service center if queues are long.

• Check your VIN for recall actions here: NHTSA Recalls Lookup (enter your VIN on the NHTSA site).
• Ask for recall completion documentation before taking delivery of any new or used RV.
• If a recall part is backordered, weigh whether to delay purchase until parts are available.

Deferring safety fixes can void insurance claims and expose your family to risk. If you encounter resistance or delays on safety-related repairs, escalate to the manufacturer and document your urgency.

Legal and Regulatory Warnings

Consumer complaints about misrepresentations, warranty denials, or unsafe repairs can intersect with state and federal protections. If you encounter such issues at the Decatur, IN location, these references may be relevant:

• Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (MMWA): Prohibits deceptive warranty practices and tying requirements. FTC overview: Businessperson’s Guide to Federal Warranty Law.
• Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Deceptive acts or practices in commerce are prohibited. File a complaint: ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
• Indiana Attorney General — Consumer Protection: Address disputes around sales, advertising, and service: Indiana AG Consumer Protection Division.
• Truth in Lending Act (TILA): Requires clear disclosure of credit terms and APR. If your finance terms differ from what was promised, this may apply.
• NHTSA: Vehicle safety recalls and defect investigations: NHTSA.gov.

When problems persist, preserve your rights by communicating in writing, requesting specific policy citations for denials, and maintaining a complete file (photos, dates, names). Consider mediation or small claims court for clear breaches of contract, and consult legal counsel when safety or high-dollar losses are involved.

Product and Safety Impact Analysis

Defects commonly described across negative RV ownership reports can have serious safety and financial consequences:

• Water intrusion: Leads to mold, soft floors, delamination, and electrical corrosion — expensive structural repairs that depreciate the RV dramatically.
• LP gas leaks or appliance failures: Risk of fire or carbon monoxide exposure.
• Brake/suspension/tire issues: Increased stopping distance, blowouts, or instability — especially dangerous at highway speeds.
• Electrical miswiring or shorts: Fire risk, inverter/charger damage, battery failures.
• Slide mechanism faults: Structural strain, water ingress points, and trip-cancelling immobilizations.

Service delays exacerbate these risks by forcing owners to choose between cancelling trips or using an RV in compromised condition. If a unit from the Decatur location has unresolved issues, press for triage repairs on safety-critical items first, and document repair timelines to protect your investment. To validate fixes, consider a third-party verification on pick-up: find a local RV inspector.

Pricing Transparency and Fee Audits

Consumers frequently report surprise fees (processing, PDI, “market adjustments”) and high-margin add-ons that are optional but presented as essential. Protect yourself by demanding an out-the-door (OTD) price that includes every tax, tag, title fee, doc fee, prep, and add-on. Decline items you do not want.

• Common high-markup items: Nitrogen tire fill, generic paint/fabric protection, “theft etch,” sealant packages, and unneeded dealer “maintenance” plans.
• Extended service contracts: Read exclusions, caps, and maintenance requirements; compare competing providers on cost and claims performance.
• GAP: Evaluate whether your down payment and insurance already cover the risk; shop standalone policies if needed.

For a deeper dive into how dealers structure finance and add-on products, browse consumer education videos on the Liz Amazing channel, then search her uploads for topics you’re negotiating: Research dealership finance tactics with Liz Amazing. And if you encountered questionable fees at the Decatur store, report it to help other shoppers.

Action Checklist for Visiting Sullivan RV Center — Decatur, IN

• Get three comparable written quotes on the same model/options from different dealers.
• Bring an independent financing pre-approval and ask them to beat it in writing.
• Require a third-party inspection contingency and completion of the punch list before final payment. Find an inspector: RV inspectors near me.
• Demand a full, powered PDI walkthrough. Test every appliance, slide, inverter/charger, GFCIs, water and waste systems, roof seals, awnings, and emergency exits.
• Verify the VIN has zero open recalls and get recall completion proof.
• Obtain an out-the-door price. Decline any add-ons you don’t want.
• Require a written due bill for missing parts or promised accessories with delivery dates and remedies.
• Confirm title processing timelines and temp tag expiration dates. Collect copies of all paperwork on delivery day.
• At pickup, re-test every system. If deficiencies remain, do not take delivery — delay until fixed or renegotiate.

Balanced Notes: Positive Feedback and Potential Improvements

Even when negative reviews are prominent, many dealerships also receive praise for friendly sales staff, fair pricing on specific units, or fast turnaround on straightforward issues. It is reasonable to expect variation by staff member, technician, and season. Parts availability and manufacturer authorization can constrain even diligent service teams.

Where Sullivan RV Center (Decatur, IN) has responded to complaints or resolved issues, take note of timelines and the final customer sentiment. If you have experienced strong service recovery or exemplary support at this location, please share your positive outcome so readers can weigh both sides.

Evidence and Research Links for Sullivan RV Center — Decatur, IN

Use the following links to conduct deeper, independent research. Replace “Issues” with “Problems” or “Complaints” where useful, and consult forum search boxes as noted.

• YouTube search: Sullivan RV Center Decatur IN Issues — YouTube
• General Google search: Sullivan RV Center Decatur IN Issues — Google
• Better Business Bureau: Sullivan RV Center Decatur IN — BBB Search
• Reddit r/RVLiving: Sullivan RV Center Decatur IN — r/RVLiving
• Reddit r/GoRVing: Sullivan RV Center Decatur IN — r/GoRVing
• Reddit r/rvs: Sullivan RV Center Decatur IN — r/rvs
• PissedConsumer: PissedConsumer — browse and search for “Sullivan RV Center Decatur IN”
• NHTSA Recalls: NHTSA Recalls Lookup (enter your VIN; recalls are by manufacturer, not dealer)
• RVForums.com: RVForums — use search for “Sullivan RV Center Decatur IN”
• RVForum.net: RVForum.net — use search for dealership name
• RVUSA Forum: RVUSA Forum — search for “Sullivan RV Center Issues”
• RVInsider.com: Sullivan RV Center Decatur IN — RVInsider Search
• Good Sam Community: Sullivan RV Center Decatur IN — Good Sam Community
• Facebook RV Brand Groups (use Google): Find brand-specific Facebook owner groups

If you spot a pattern in those sources that matches your experience in Decatur, please post details to help the next shopper.

Bottom Line: Is Sullivan RV Center (Decatur, IN) Right for You?

Public low-star reviews for many RV dealerships reveal recurring issues that can be costly and time-consuming: aggressive add-ons, low trade valuations, PDI misses, slow warranty repairs, communication gaps, and paperwork delays. The Decatur, IN Google Business page for Sullivan RV Center includes critical reviews you should study closely — especially by sorting “Lowest rating” — to assess whether the specific risk patterns described here align with recent, local experiences: Sullivan RV Center — Google Reviews (Decatur, IN).

If you move forward, put everything in writing, build in a third-party inspection contingency, and be prepared to walk if fundamentals (pricing transparency, PDI quality, reasonable timelines, and recall readiness) are not met. Securing your own financing and declining add-ons you don’t want can save thousands. And remember: your best leverage is before signing and before taking possession.

Based on the volume and seriousness of negative consumer themes commonly associated with RV dealers — and the concerns reflected in low-star public reviews for this specific Decatur, IN location — we do not recommend proceeding unless Sullivan RV Center satisfies a rigorous, written checklist: independent inspection, clean PDI, transparent OTD pricing without unwanted add-ons, confirmed recall status, and documented service timelines. If those conditions aren’t met, expand your search to other dealerships with stronger recent customer satisfaction profiles.

Have you purchased from or serviced with this location? Share details others should know.

Comments: Your First-Hand Experience in Decatur, IN

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