Thor Motor Coach-Miramar RV Exposed: Leaks, Slide Failures, Electrical Risks & Service Delays
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Thor Motor Coach-Miramar
Location: 701 County Road 15, Elkhart, IN 46516
Contact Info:
• info@thormotorcoach.com
• Customer 877-500-1020
• Service 800-860-5658
Official Report ID: 1624
Introduction: What shoppers should know about the Thor Motor Coach Miramar
AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. The Thor Motor Coach Miramar is a gasoline Class A motorhome built on the Ford F53 chassis, positioned as a feature-forward coach with multiple floorplans, residential amenities, and eye-catching interiors. While it offers big-coach features at a relatively accessible price point, its reputation among owners is mixed: attractive on the lot, but frequently associated with quality control problems, service bottlenecks, and recurring mechanical and fit-and-finish issues once in use. Our investigation prioritizes recent and historical consumer complaints, safety recalls, forum discussions, and watchdog reports to map the risk areas that prospective buyers should weigh carefully.
To balance our reporting, we acknowledge that some owners love their Miramar after initial fixes and that Thor Motor Coach has addressed certain recalls. Still, the pattern of reported concerns—particularly around leaks, slide-outs, electrical systems, chassis handling, and warranty service—deserves a close, methodical review before purchase.
Where to find unfiltered owner feedback and documentation
Before you sign, gather primary-source accounts from owners and technicians. Use these searchable resources to verify specific claims and see real-world experiences:
- YouTube (owner walkthroughs, failures, and fixes): Search YouTube for Thor Motor Coach Miramar Problems
- General Google results (news, reviews, lawsuits, recalls): Google search: Thor Motor Coach Miramar Problems
- Better Business Bureau (manufacturer complaints): BBB search: Thor Motor Coach Miramar
- Reddit communities:
- NHTSA recalls (safety campaigns and complaints): NHTSA: Miramar recalls and complaints
- RVInsider (owner-written reviews): RVInsider search: Miramar Problems
- Good Sam Community Forum: Good Sam search: Miramar Problems
- RVUSA Forum (use header search): RVUSA Forums (enter “Thor Motor Coach Miramar Problems”)
- RVForums.com and RVForum.net (use site search): RVForums.com and RVForum.net
- PissedConsumer (search manually by brand/model): PissedConsumer main reviews page
- Facebook owner groups: Join multiple Miramar-focused groups for uncensored feedback via this Google search: Miramar Facebook Groups search
For industry watchdog coverage, the Liz Amazing YouTube channel regularly spotlights systemic RV quality and service problems; search her channel for “Miramar” or the specific model year you’re considering.
Before you buy: make a third-party RV inspection your leverage
Do not take delivery without a robust third-party inspection. Independent inspectors catch leaks, miswired circuits, slide racking, soft floors, inadequate sealant, tire date codes, and hidden damage. It’s the single best leverage you have prior to final payment; once the dealer has your money, many owners report being pushed “to the back of the line” for warranty work, with rigs sidelined for weeks or months waiting on parts. Lost camping reservations and spoiled trips are common themes in complaints.
- Find a qualified professional near you: Google: RV Inspectors near me
- Require a written report and photographically documented defect list
- Make acceptance contingent on correction of all defects, with a firm timeline in writing
- Bring moisture meter readings, thermal imaging, and roof inspection results into your negotiation
Have you experienced delays or defects that an inspection might have prevented? Add your story in the comments.
Patterns of reported defects and failures
Structural leaks, windshield/cap separation, and water intrusion
(Serious Concern)
Owners of various Miramar model years report recurring water intrusion around the front cap seams, slide roof edges, A/C penetrations, and even windshield bonding points. Consequences include swollen subflooring, delamination, soft roof decking, stained headliners, and mold odors. Multiple consumer threads describe repeat dealer sealant “touch-ups” that don’t resolve underlying assembly gaps or cap alignment issues.
- Search owner reports: Google: Miramar Water Leaks
- Owner-review listings: RVInsider: Miramar Problems
- Community troubleshooting: Good Sam: Miramar Leaks
Leak-related damage is expensive and may not be fully covered if manufacturers or dealers characterize it as “maintenance.” Inspect every seam, look for discoloration under windows and in cabinetry, and use a moisture meter at slide floors and around the front cap.
Slide-out malfunctions and full-wall slide racking
(Serious Concern)
Miramar configurations with long or full-wall slides are repeatedly flagged for binding, racking, and gear/motor synchronization issues. Owners describe slides moving unevenly, stopping mid-travel, or chewing through seals. Chronic misalignment can crack cabinetry, distort window frames, and exacerbate leaks.
- Video documentation: YouTube: Miramar Slide Problems
- Community threads:
Reddit r/rvs: Slide Problems,
Good Sam: Slide Issues - General reference: Google: Miramar Slide-Out Problems
Pre-delivery, cycle each slide repeatedly while monitoring for asymmetric movement, abnormal noises, or wall/floor deflection. Post-purchase complaints often cite long waits for slide parts and specialized labor.
Electrical faults, shorts, and transfer switch/inverter failures
(Serious Concern)
Owners report tripped breakers, ground fault interruptions, battery control center shorts, overheating automatic transfer switches, and failing inverters. Symptoms: random power loss to outlets, air conditioners stalling under load, burnt smells near the control center, and shore-to-generator switching glitches. Some safety recalls targeting electrical harness routing or component overheating have touched Thor products over the years, and Miramar owners report similar patterns.
- Safety campaigns and owner complaints: NHTSA: Miramar Recalls/Complaints
- Owner reports and fixes: YouTube: Miramar Electrical Problems
- Community troubleshooting: Google: Miramar Electrical Issues
Use an infrared thermometer to scan the transfer switch and inverter under load. Confirm torque on lugs, look for chafe points, and test both 120V and 12V systems through an inspector. Electrical faults can escalate into fire hazards; do not ignore hot smells or discolored wiring.
Plumbing leaks, tank-sensor failures, and black-tank flush issues
(Moderate Concern)
Complaints commonly reference PEX fittings that drip under pressure, under-sink or behind-wall leaks at the shower, and persistent gray/black tank sensor misreads. A recurring theme is black-tank flush lines leaking behind panels, soaking substructures before being detected.
- Owner experiences: Google: Miramar Plumbing Problems
- Community help: Good Sam: Tank Sensor Issues
Demand pressure testing and a full water-system demo. Inspect under sinks and adjacent cabinetry for water staining, and insist on access panel removal if a flush-line leak is suspected.
HVAC performance and condensation problems
(Moderate Concern)
Owners mention underperforming ducted A/C, condensate dripping inside, and furnace short cycling. Some attribute this to poorly sealed duct runs or inadequate return air pathways.
- Search owner reports: Google: Miramar A/C Problems
- Forum threads: RVInsider: HVAC Problems
During inspection, run both A/C units on shore and generator power; check delta-T at registers, verify proper condensate drainage, and inspect return air filters and plenum sealing.
Fit-and-finish, furniture delamination, and cabinet misalignment
(Moderate Concern)
Frequent complaints include misaligned cabinet doors, loose trim, squeaks and rattles, and “pleather” upholstery that flakes within a short ownership window. Cosmetic defects can be early warning signs of rushed assembly.
- Owner ratings and comments: RVInsider: Miramar Complaints
- Model-specific searches: Google: Interior Quality Problems
Examine every latch, pull, and hinge; bring a flashlight and note veneers lifting at edges or staple pops along trim strips. Photograph defects and include them in your pre-delivery punch list.
Chassis handling, brake, and steering concerns on the Ford F53
(Serious Concern)
Many Miramar owners describe “white-knuckle” driving: wandering, porpoising, and sway in wind or while passing trucks—typical for heavily loaded F53-based coaches when not optimized. Complaints cite premature front tire wear, steering play, and brake feel that inspires little confidence on long descents. Owners frequently invest in aftermarket handling upgrades (trac bars, sway bars, SumoSprings) to make the rig livable on the highway. Chassis-related recalls can affect certain years of the F53 platform; always check by VIN.
- Safety campaigns and complaints by VIN: NHTSA: Miramar/F53-related campaigns
- Owner experiences: Reddit r/rvs: Handling Problems
- General research: Google: Miramar F53 Handling
Test drive on highway and secondary roads with crosswinds, note steering corrections, and inspect suspension components for damage or missing fasteners. Verify tire pressures and load ratings against actual scaled weights.
Leveling jacks, steps, and actuator failures
(Moderate Concern)
Leveling systems and powered steps surface repeatedly in complaints: error codes, failure to retract, hydraulic leaks, or sticking actuators. Some owners report repeated recalibration and replacement cycles.
- Issue threads: Google: Miramar Leveling Jack Problems
- Community fixes: Good Sam: Steps Problem
At delivery, fully deploy and retract jacks multiple times; inspect for leaks and ensure manual override works. Steps should extend/retract reliably, without grinding or excessive play.
Exterior paint, decals, and windshield issues
(Moderate Concern)
Fading decals, bubbling clearcoat on partial paint units, and trim separation are flagged in owner reviews. Some report windshield stress cracks or adhesive bond concerns after chassis flex events—often linked to slide racking or uneven leveling on soft ground.
- Owner posts and images: Google: Miramar Paint Problems
- Forum references: RVInsider: Exterior Issues
Inspect caulking at the windshield perimeter and cap seams. Ask the dealer to document paint codes and decal warranty terms in writing.
Generator shutdowns, charge issues, and parts delays
(Moderate Concern)
Owners frequently report Onan generator shutdowns under load, erratic output, or difficulty sourcing parts and service appointments. When combined with transfer switch problems, this can strand travelers without air conditioning while boondocking or driving.
- Owner videos and troubleshooting: YouTube: Miramar Generator Problems
- General research: Google: Generator Shuts Down
Load-test the generator with both A/C units and microwave on shore-independent power. Verify service intervals and confirm a qualified service center is accessible near your home base.
Warranty denials, dealer backlogs, and long repair timelines
(Serious Concern)
By far the most consistent pain point across owner accounts is warranty service: extended delays waiting for authorization and parts, limited appointment availability, finger-pointing between dealer and manufacturer, and out-of-pocket costs for issues owners believe should have been covered. Some owners describe their Miramar sitting at the dealership for months during peak season, with cancelled trips and financial loss.
- Manufacturer complaints and patterns: BBB: Thor Motor Coach Miramar
- Community threads:
Reddit r/rvs: Warranty Problems,
Google: Warranty Complaints
Protect yourself by documenting every interaction, insisting on repair orders for each visit, and setting written timelines for fixes pre-delivery. As an educational resource on industry-wide service pitfalls, see the Liz Amazing channel and search for warranty- and service-related videos before you commit.
Have you faced long service delays with your Miramar? Tell other shoppers in the comments.
Marketing vs. reality: CCC, “solar prep,” and feature execution
(Moderate Concern)
Buyers are attracted to glossy features lists, but owners warn about practical limitations. Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC) on some floorplans can shrink quickly after loading water, passengers, and gear, which affects safety and ride quality. “Solar prep” may amount to pre-wiring without panels or a capable charge controller, leaving boondocking ambitions unmet without further investment. Other features—like multiplex controls—can be inconsistent in execution and tricky to troubleshoot when glitches appear.
- Model-specific reports: Google: Miramar CCC
- Owner review sites: RVInsider: Miramar Issues
Ask the dealer to weigh your specific unit (by axle) and provide the actual CCC in writing. Clarify what “prepped” truly includes and budget for upgrades accordingly.
Product and safety impact analysis
Based on aggregated complaints and recall histories across Thor-branded Class A gas coaches, the most hazardous issues involve water intrusion, electrical faults, and chassis handling. Water intrusion can undermine structural integrity and compromise electrical systems hidden behind walls or under floors. Electrical shorts and overheated connections pose fire risks. Handling problems can lead to lane departure or loss of control—especially in crosswinds or emergency maneuvers—if the coach is near its weight limits and not properly set up.
- Safety implication: Slide-out failures mid-travel can trap occupants, prevent egress, or force unsafe roadside stops. Electrical overheating must be addressed immediately to prevent fire.
- Financial implication: Extended downtime during peak season causes lost reservations and additional lodging expenses. Out-of-pocket costs for aftermarket chassis upgrades and repeated dealer visits can add thousands beyond the purchase price.
- Resale value risk: A rig with a paper trail of leaks or slide repairs can be harder to sell and command a lower price. Documentation matters; invest in preventive fixes and keep records.
Want to help other shoppers understand the real-world impact? Post what went right or wrong with your Miramar.
Legal and regulatory warnings
Owners who encounter repeated failures or long repair delays may have recourse under state and federal laws:
- Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (U.S.): Requires manufacturers to honor written warranties and prohibits certain deceptive practices. If warranty-covered items are not repaired within a reasonable number of attempts, you may have legal options.
- State Lemon Laws: Coverage for motorhomes varies by state; some protect only the chassis, not the “house.” Research your state’s definitions and remedies. Keep detailed records of repair attempts and days out of service.
- Uniform Commercial Code (UCC): Implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose may apply if your dealer made specific representations about capabilities (e.g., towing or winter use) that the unit cannot meet.
- Regulatory reporting:
- File safety-related complaints: NHTSA recalls/complaints lookup
- Report deceptive practices: Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and your State Attorney General
- Dispute resolution and documentation trail: BBB complaint portal
Action steps: Keep a dated log of every defect, repair order, email, and phone call. If the vehicle is out of service for extended periods or the same defect persists after multiple attempts, talk to a consumer protection attorney experienced in RV cases. Documented patterns matter much more than verbal complaints.
For broader context on systemic industry problems and consumer strategies, search the Liz Amazing channel for “warranty,” “dealer delays,” and “quality control.”
Signs of incremental improvement (and what to verify)
Some Miramar owners report better experiences on newer F53 chassis years (with updated steering geometry and braking feel), and a subset of customers say they were satisfied after initial punch-list corrections. Thor has periodically issued recalls and service bulletins to address specific defects; verified completion of these campaigns can improve reliability. However, because RV manufacturing often mixes components from multiple suppliers and mid-year changes occur, real-world outcomes vary widely.
- Always verify recall status by VIN: NHTSA VIN lookup
- Request the unit’s factory PDI sheet and dealer PDI results
- Confirm warranty terms in writing and ask for average current parts lead times by category (slides, A/C, electronics)
Have you seen improvements on a newer model year? Share specifics to help others.
Pre-purchase checklist tailored to the Miramar
- Roof and cap seams: Inspect with a ladder and flashlight; look for uneven seam tape, voids in sealant, and signs of water migration inside cabinets up front.
- Slides: Cycle each multiple times on level ground; measure opposing corners for square, watch roof edges for seal roll, and listen for grinding or popping.
- Electrical: Under load, check temperature at the transfer switch and inverter; test GFCI outlets, auto-gen-start, and multiplex panels. Verify correct wire routing and strain relief.
- Plumbing: Pressurize and inspect every accessible fitting; run the black-tank flush and verify no leaks behind panels. Confirm water pump noise and flow are normal.
- Chassis: Highway test with crosswind exposure; confirm straight-line stability, braking feel, and steering return-to-center. Ask for scale weights by axle.
- Leveling & steps: Fully deploy/retract jacks and steps repeatedly; test manual overrides.
- HVAC: Measure A/C temperature drop at registers (target ~18–22°F delta); confirm condensate drainage outside, not into the coach.
- Generator: Run both A/Cs plus microwave on generator; note any sag or shutdown. Inspect service hours and records.
- Fit-and-finish: Check every cabinet, trim strip, and drawer slide. Sit on all furniture to check for early upholstery wear points.
- Documentation: Demand the full punch list in writing and tie it to a “we owe” form with completion dates prior to final payment.
- Independent inspection: Book a pro before delivery: Find RV Inspectors near me
Additional research pathways
Use these targeted queries to compare stories and repair outcomes across multiple years of the Miramar:
- Google: Miramar Issues
- YouTube: Miramar Owner Review
- Good Sam: Miramar Complaints
- RVInsider: Miramar Problems
If you uncover a pattern we missed, please add your findings to the discussion so future shoppers benefit.
Service strategy if you already own a Miramar
- Document early and often: Video and photos at the first sign of leaks or electrical odors can be decisive for warranty approvals.
- Multiple service channels: Consider chassis items at Ford truck centers, generator service at Cummins/Onan dealers, and house systems at independent RV shops—don’t wait solely on the selling dealer if timelines are unreasonable.
- Preventive upgrades: Handling improvements (rear trac bar, sway bars, shocks or SumoSprings) can reduce driver fatigue and improve safety.
- Escalation path: When delays mount, escalate with the manufacturer’s customer service and copy your state AG/consumer protection office. Filing with the BBB can also help move a stagnant claim.
- Education: For broader context on quality and service pitfalls, search the Liz Amazing YouTube channel for Thor- and Class A gas-related videos and apply her checklists to your rig.
Balanced notes and context
Not every Miramar owner has a negative story. Some report satisfaction after the initial shake-down and praise floorplan livability, storage, and amenities. Certain recalls have been addressed promptly on a VIN-specific basis. Additionally, Ford’s continuous updates to the F53 platform have improved drivability for some owners. These positives, however, do not erase the substantial volume of complaints around leaks, slide mechanisms, electrical reliability, and especially service delays. The takeaway is not that every Miramar will fail—but that the probability and potential cost of issues demand careful, proactive mitigation.
Final verdict for shoppers
Across owner reviews, forum discussions, video testimonials, and complaint portals, the Thor Motor Coach Miramar exhibits a consistent pattern of problems that can meaningfully affect safety, vacation plans, and wallet. The most consequential issues—water intrusion, slide-out failures, electrical faults, and dealer/manufacturer service delays—carry both financial and safety risks, and many owners end up investing additional time and money to achieve basic reliability and drivability.
Given the weight of current and historical complaints, we do not recommend purchasing a Thor Motor Coach Miramar without an exhaustive third-party inspection, robust contractual protections, and a verified service path. Risk-averse shoppers should consider alternative brands or models with stronger reliability records and more responsive service networks.
Still shopping? One more time: book a professional inspector before you sign—this is your best leverage: Find RV Inspectors near me. And if you’ve lived through Miramar ownership, share what you wish you’d known to help others make an informed choice.
Owner discussion and comments
What has your Miramar done well, and where did it let you down? Parts availability, leaks, slides, electrical, handling—specifics help other readers. Please keep it civil, factual, and detailed so shoppers can benefit from your experience.
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