Thor Motor Coach-Four Winds RV Exposed: Leaks, Delamination, Slide-Out Failures & Service Delays

Introduction & Reputation Snapshot

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. The Thor Motor Coach Four Winds is a long-running Class C motorhome line positioned as an “affordable family coach” on Ford E-350/E-450 and sometimes Chevy chassis, with floorplans ranging from compact bunk models to larger slides with residential amenities. Its nationwide dealer presence and aggressive pricing make it a common first RV for new buyers. However, the model’s reputation among owners is mixed to negative, with recurring themes around quality control, water intrusion, slide-out reliability, and service delays. This report consolidates those themes, highlights safety and financial risks, and points you to credible public sources where you can verify each issue yourself.

Before diving in, you’re encouraged to verify patterns, not one-offs. Use multiple sources—YouTube owner videos, BBB complaints, independent forums, and recall databases—to form your own risk assessment. Consumer advocate channels like Liz Amazing’s RV industry investigations have been actively exposing systemic RV quality problems; search her channel for “Four Winds” or the exact floorplan you’re considering to see if there’s model-specific coverage.

Where to Find Unfiltered Owner Experiences

Start with broad, model-specific searches, then drill into subtopics (water leaks, slide issues, electrical, warranty). Here are one-click research starting points using the proper query formatting:

• YouTube Owner Reports: YouTube: Thor Motor Coach Four Winds Problems
• Google (all sources): Google: Thor Motor Coach Four Winds Problems
• BBB Complaints: Better Business Bureau: Thor Motor Coach Four Winds
• Reddit (Owner Threads):
  • r/rvs: Four Winds Problems
  • r/RVLiving: Four Winds Problems
  • r/GoRVing: Four Winds Problems
• NHTSA Recalls (VIN-level safety): NHTSA Recalls: Thor Motor Coach Four Winds
• RVInsider Owner Reviews: RVInsider: Four Winds Problems
• Good Sam Community: Good Sam Forum: Four Winds Problems
• Facebook Groups (use Google to find multiple groups): Google: Thor Motor Coach Four Winds Facebook Groups (Join several groups for an unfiltered owner feed.)
• PissedConsumer (manually search “Thor Motor Coach Four Winds”): PissedConsumer main site
• Independent forums: Use onsite search for “Four Winds Problems” at RVForums.com, RVForum.net, and RVUSA Forum

For a balanced view of recurring trends across brands, consumer advocate videos from Liz Amazing’s channel are valuable; on her channel, use the search box to look up “Thor Four Winds” and your specific floorplan year. Have you had issues with a Four Winds? Add your experience.

Before You Buy: Independent Inspection Is Your Only Leverage

Once money changes hands, many buyers report long waits for repairs and diminished priority at the dealership. A third-party inspection—before signing final paperwork—can catch costly defects early and give you leverage to demand fixes or walk away. Search for a certified inspector near you: Find RV Inspectors near me.

• Why this matters: Owners report cancelled trips and months-long service delays while their RV sits awaiting parts. An inspection can document issues in writing before acceptance.
• Scope to request: Full roof and seam inspection, moisture meter readings (cab-over bunk and around slides), electrical/charging test, LP leak-down test, generator load test, weight estimates (axle, CCC), and slide operation evaluation.
• Do it again at delivery: Even if you had a pre-delivery inspection, re-check on delivery day. If anything changed, do not sign until it’s corrected. You can also price-in the cost of independent repairs if the dealer refuses timely fixes.

If you already own a Four Winds and experienced long repair delays, tell readers how long your coach sat at the dealer.

Build Quality & QC Gaps

Across model years, owners frequently cite poor fit-and-finish, loose fasteners, cabinet misalignment, staples/screws backing out, and sealant voids that lead to water ingress. These are high-frequency complaints in Google and forum searches referencing the Four Winds line and similar Thor-built Class Cs.

• Fit and finish defects out of the gate: Reports of trim falling off during first trips, interior panels buckling, and missing sealant around plumbing fixtures. Source examples: Google: Four Winds Fit and Finish Problems, RVInsider: Four Winds owner complaints.
• Dealer prep often inadequate: Multiple owners say “PDI misses” allowed defects to pass through delivery. YouTube and Reddit threads document owners finishing the dealership’s job after driving home. See: YouTube: Four Winds Problems, r/rvs discussions.
• Sealant quality and application: Owners commonly rework roof and exterior seams in the first year to avert leaks. Poor sealant tooling and missed edges are often pictured in owner posts. Research: Google: Four Winds Sealant Problems.

Roof Membrane, Front Cap, and Cab-over Workmanship

The cab-over bunk area and front cap seams are chronic weak points in many Class Cs, and Four Winds owners are no exception. Reported issues include bubbles in the roof membrane near the front radius, poorly sealed marker lights, and seam separation at the cab-over corners. Once water intrudes here, it can wick into luan layers behind the fiberglass, creating hidden rot and, eventually, delamination. Verify patterns: Google: Four Winds Roof Leak Problems, YouTube: Four Winds Water Leaks.

Water Intrusion, Delamination, and Mold Risk

Water intrusion is arguably the most expensive risk. Once water gets behind the exterior wall, delamination can appear as wavy fiberglass or soft spots—hard to reverse without major wall rebuilds. Owners discuss leak paths near slide openings, window frames, roof penetrations, and the cab-over nose. Mold risk follows prolonged leaks.

• Window and slide-topper leaks: Water tracking through poorly sealed slide roofs and window frames is widely reported. See: Google: Four Winds Water Leaks, Good Sam: Four Winds Water Leaks.
• Delamination after year one: Owners say dealers sometimes classify this as “maintenance-related,” leaving consumers to fight over coverage. Research disputes: Google: Four Winds Delamination Problems, r/RVLiving: Four Winds Water Damage.
• Cab-over bunk hotspots: The lip where the cab meets the house is a frequent failure point. Verify with owner photos: RVInsider: Four Winds Leaks.

In-person moisture meter readings around the cab-over, slide headers, and windows are essential. If the dealer resists, that’s a red flag. Book an inspector: Search RV inspectors near you. What leak points did you find on your Four Winds?

Slide-out System Failures

Owners of slide-equipped Four Winds models report out-of-sync motors, binding tracks, and sheared fasteners, often associated with rack-and-pinion or Schwintek-style systems. Symptoms include a slide room that creeps unevenly, loud grinding, or a slide that won’t retract fully—sometimes trapping the RV at a campground or dealer. Threads and videos documenting field resets and repairs are plentiful: YouTube: Four Winds Slide-out Problems, r/rvs: Four Winds Slide Problems.

Electrical, Charging, and Generator Problems

Electrical faults range from nuisance issues to safety risks. Owners mention miswired outlets, GFCIs that constantly trip, inadequate battery charging, loose grounds, and 12V failures affecting slides and jacks. Onan generator stalling under load or refusing to start after short runtime is also common in user posts across multiple years.

• Converter/charger weakness: Failing to maintain battery charge during boondocking or even on shore power can cascade into other systems. Research: Google: Four Winds Electrical Problems.
• Wiring and fusing inconsistencies: Reports of poorly routed wires, chafe points, and inaccessible inline fuses. See: Good Sam: Four Winds Electrical Issues.
• Onan generator surging/stalling: Often blamed on fuel pickup height, clogged carb jets, or load management problems. Owner videos abound: YouTube: Four Winds Generator Problems.

Electrical issues can pose fire risk when overheating connections are involved. Verify with NHTSA complaints and recalls: NHTSA: Four Winds Recalls/Complaints. For practical checklists and owner-led investigations, consider searching on Liz Amazing’s channel for “electrical,” “QC,” and “pre-delivery” topics.

Plumbing and HVAC: Leaks, Tank Sensors, and Climate Control

Plumbing leaks appear early in many owner reports—often at PEX fittings, shower pans, and under-sink connections. Freshwater pumps can be loud or inadequately mounted, causing vibration. Tank sensors are frequently inaccurate, reading “full” or “empty” regardless of actual levels. AC ducting and furnace distribution may leave hot/cold spots, challenging off-season camping.

• PEX fittings and shower pan seals: Loose connections produce hidden moisture in cabinets, sometimes only discovered after soft floor signs. See: Google: Four Winds Plumbing Leaks.
• Tank level sensor noise: A widespread RV issue; Thor Four Winds owners routinely add aftermarket sensors or cleaning regimens. Discussions: r/RVLiving: Four Winds Tank Sensor Problems.
• Underperforming HVAC: Poor duct sealing and return air leaks reduce efficiency; some owners rework ducting and add fans. Owner fixes: Good Sam: Four Winds AC Problems.

LP Gas and Appliance Safety

LP system integrity is critical. Across brand lines, RVs have experienced regulator, line, and appliance recalls; you should treat LP leaks as life-safety hazards. Four Winds owners report propane odor, regulator failures, and furnace ignition problems—sometimes tied to uneven voltages or marginal wiring.

• Regulator and line recalls: Always check your VIN at NHTSA: NHTSA: Thor Motor Coach Four Winds.
• Furnace/Water heater ignition: Misfires, sooting, and lockouts are common complaint topics. Research: Google: Four Winds Propane Problems.

Request an LP leak-down test during inspection, and insist on proof of recall completion paperwork. If you’ve faced LP safety concerns, please describe what you found and how it was fixed.

Chassis Handling, Weight Limits, and Braking

Many Four Winds units ride on the Ford E-350/E-450 chassis, which can feel top-heavy and wander without aftermarket suspension upgrades. Owners describe white-knuckle driving in crosswinds and truck wash without sway bars, track bars, or alignment adjustments. More seriously, cargo carrying capacity (CCC) on some floorplans may be tight; when loaded with passengers, water, and gear, owners risk exceeding axle or tire ratings, compromising braking and stability.

• Handling and sway: Common owner upgrades include front/rear sway bars, rear track bar, SumoSprings, and professional alignment with proper caster settings. Read owner experiences: r/rvs: Four Winds Handling Problems.
• Braking and tires: Overweight conditions stress tires and brakes; blowouts and brake fade are safety-critical. Research: Google: Four Winds Braking Problems.

Towing and Hitch Ratings vs. Reality

Marketing often showcases 7,500–8,000 lb hitches, but the real towing capacity depends on your actual weight versus the chassis GCWR and GAWR. Many owners discover they can tow far less once their coach is loaded. Verify figures on the yellow weight sticker and do an actual scale weight. For threads debunking towing assumptions, see: Good Sam: Four Winds Towing Capacity, r/GoRVing: Towing Problems.

Warranty, Service Delays, and Dealer Practices

One of the most consistent owner complaints involves slow warranty approvals, parts backorders, and dealers requiring the RV to sit onsite for weeks or months. Buyers report cancelled trips and ongoing payments for a coach they can’t use. Some consumers also cite finger-pointing between the chassis maker (Ford), the coach builder (Thor), and appliance vendors, leaving the customer managing multiple claims.

• Lengthy repair queues: A repeated pattern in BBB and Google reviews is service departments booking months out and prioritizing in-house buyers. Research: BBB: Thor Motor Coach Four Winds, Google: Four Winds Warranty Complaints.
• Denials as maintenance-related: Water intrusion and delamination disputes show up frequently. See: Google: Four Winds Delamination Warranty.
• Practical steps: Meticulous documentation, written timelines, and escalation to Thor corporate along with regulatory filings can help. Also study consumer guidance from Liz Amazing’s videos; on her channel, search “warranty,” “dealer delays,” and “PDI.”

If you’re still shopping, remember: an independent inspection before you sign is powerful leverage. If you already purchased, consider hiring an independent shop for faster turnaround on non-warranty items if the cost-benefit makes sense. Have you been stuck in the service queue? Share your timeline.

Recalls and What to Check by VIN

Recalls can involve the house portion (Thor-installed components), the chassis (Ford/Chevy), or appliances (Dometic/Norcold, Atwood, etc.). Because Four Winds spans many years and sub-models, you must run your specific VIN. Look for seat belt anchor issues, LP system components, egress window failures, and chassis items like driveshaft, fuel system, or brake-related recalls.

• Run your VIN at NHTSA: NHTSA recall search for Thor Motor Coach Four Winds
• Confirm completion: Ask for printed proof of recall closures. If a recall remains open, do not take delivery until resolved in writing.
• Follow up on TSBs: Technical Service Bulletins may not be “recalls” but can fix known defects; ask the service writer to search your VIN for applicable TSBs.

Legal and Regulatory Warnings

Patterns of defects, repair delays, and warranty denials may carry legal consequences under federal and state law:

• Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (federal): Requires manufacturers to honor written warranties and prohibits deceptive warranty terms. If substantial defects persist within the warranty period and the manufacturer fails to fix within a reasonable number of attempts, you may have remedies including attorney fees.
• State Lemon Laws: Some states cover motorhomes (often only the chassis), others exclude RV “house” portions. Nonetheless, many states have consumer protection statutes and implied warranty claims that can apply.
• FTC and State AG Complaints: For deceptive advertising or warranty practices, you can file with the FTC and your state Attorney General. Documentation matters—save written communications, repair orders, and photos.
• NHTSA Safety Complaints: If you experience a safety-related defect (brakes, steering, LP leaks, egress failures), file a complaint. Enough similar complaints can trigger investigations and recalls. Start here: NHTSA: Four Winds.

If you’re fighting a denial, consult an attorney familiar with RV warranty law. Organized documentation and independent inspections can be pivotal. Have you pursued legal remedies? What worked?

Product and Safety Impact Analysis

Based on aggregated owner reports, the most consequential risks in a Thor Motor Coach Four Winds are water intrusion (leading to structural damage, mold, and delamination), handling/weight safety issues (potentially compromising braking and stability), and service delays that impose significant financial and lifestyle costs.

• Safety hazards:
  • LP gas leaks, faulty regulators, and appliance misfires can lead to fire/explosion hazards. Always perform LP leak testing and keep detectors current.
  • Chassis handling and overweight conditions can contribute to loss of control, tire failures, and extended stopping distances.
  • Electrical faults may cause overheating or fire behind panels; look for warm breakers, scorched terminals, and address promptly.
• Financial risks:
  • Water damage repair can exceed thousands, sometimes requiring wall or roof rebuilds; resale value can be severely impacted by recorded delamination or “soft wall” findings.
  • Lost use costs: owners report months waiting in service queues while paying loans, insurance, and storage.
  • Warranty gaps: disputes over “maintenance” vs. “defect” can leave owners paying out-of-pocket early in ownership.

To reduce exposure, do not take delivery without a thorough inspection and moisture meter results. Re-seal known hotspots proactively, weigh the coach loaded for travel, and plan for immediate suspension and handling upgrades if highway manners feel unsafe. For real-world quality control insights, browse consumer advocates like Liz Amazing’s investigative content and search on her channel for your exact model and year.

Pricing, Options, and Value Concerns

Owners frequently argue the Four Winds commands “too much money for too little quality,” especially when factoring option packages that can be installed aftermarket for less (e.g., upgraded TVs, fans, solar kits). Complaints highlight basic materials, stapled cabinetry, and thin panels in areas subject to daily wear. The gap between marketing claims and delivered reality often shows up in 1-star reviews and owner forums: Google: Four Winds Overpriced Options, r/rvs: Four Winds Quality Complaints.

• Resale value drag: Documented leak history and delamination dramatically lower resale.
• Aftermarket fixes: Many owners plan $2–5k in immediate upgrades (suspension, sealant, fans, vent covers, battery/charging improvements) just to reach satisfactory usability for travel.

Small Signs of Improvement and Owner Workarounds

To be objective, some recent owners report fewer initial defects and better dealer PDIs at select retailers, plus stronger E-450 handling out of the box than older E-350 units. Others note that once they proactively resealed the roof and added suspension upgrades, their Four Winds became a serviceable weekend rig.

• Preventive maintenance matters: Quarterly seam inspections, prompt resealing, and winter storage under cover substantially cut leak risks.
• Handling upgrades: Bars, shocks, and alignment can transform driving manners; budget this in if highway comfort is important to you.
• Electrical reliability: Battery monitor, upgraded converter/charger, and tighter cable management reduce nuisance failures.

Still, these improvements typically come from owners—not from the factory. The burden of “making it right” often falls on the buyer during the first year. What upgrades made your Four Winds livable?

Pre-Purchase Action Plan (Checklist)

• Commission a third-party inspection: Book early, and accompany the inspector. Use: RV Inspectors near me.
• Require moisture meter readings: Focus on cab-over, windows, roof penetrations, and slide openings.
• Operate every system under load: Slides, generator, furnace, water heater, AC, water pump, outlets, GFCI, appliances.
• Weigh it or estimate carefully: Confirm CCC and towing math; demand actual scale tickets if available.
• Demand repair timelines in writing: If issues are found, get a signed repair list and deadlines before you sign.
• Check recalls/TSBs by VIN: Verify clearance at NHTSA; insist all open items are resolved pre-delivery.
• Read owner threads and complaints: Use: Google, BBB, YouTube, NHTSA, and Facebook owner groups via Google.

Summary Judgment

The Thor Motor Coach Four Winds offers compelling floorplans and broad dealer availability, but owner-reported patterns show meaningful risk in the core areas that matter: water intrusion and delamination, slide reliability, electrical and LP safety concerns, chassis handling and weight margins, and, critically, warranty and service delays that can erase entire camping seasons. While some owners achieve acceptable results with extensive preventive maintenance and upgrades, the burden typically falls on the consumer shortly after purchase. Cross-verify these patterns with the linked searches and communities, and pay close attention to moisture and handling before committing. If you do proceed, bake in time and budget for remediation.

Based on the weight of publicly available complaints, recalls, and forum reports, we do not recommend the Thor Motor Coach Four Winds for buyers seeking a low-maintenance, trouble-free RV. Consider alternative brands/models with stronger quality control records and better after-sales support, and never skip a third-party inspection before taking delivery.

Ready to weigh in? Post your firsthand Four Winds experience.

Owner Comments

Have you owned or shopped a Four Winds? Your insights help future buyers. Please share what went right, what went wrong, repair timelines, and how the manufacturer or dealer responded.