Thor Motor Coach-Rize RV Exposed: Leaks, Electrical Failures, Generator Issues & Service Delays

Introduction and Model Overview

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. The Thor Motor Coach Rize is an entry-level Class B camper van built on the RAM ProMaster 1500 chassis, marketed as a nimble urban-adventure RV with floorplans like the 18M (wet bath) and 18T/18A (varies by year), optional pop-top, compact galley, and a small generator or lithium power options. In the broader RV industry, Thor Motor Coach is the largest manufacturer by volume, and the Rize has earned a reputation as a budget-friendly Class B that gets you out camping quickly. However, a large volume of owner complaints and forum threads also point to quality-control problems, water intrusion and sealing issues, electrical and generator failures, warranty delays, and service backlogs. This investigative report focuses heavily on verifiable consumer experiences and publicly available documentation so prospective buyers understand the risk profile before signing a purchase order.

Before you go further, consider joining owner communities and reading complaints across multiple platforms to see unfiltered feedback, and, just as importantly, tell us what you’ve experienced with your Rize. Real-world reports help shoppers understand what’s likely to happen after delivery.

Where to Research Owner Experiences (Communities, Reviews, and Watchdogs)

• Google owner reports: Scan broad results for recurring themes in reviews and forums: Google search: Thor Motor Coach Rize Problems.
• YouTube owner diaries and teardown videos: Start with a general search: YouTube search: Thor Motor Coach Rize Problems. Also see how creators expose systemic RV issues and perform a channel search for your specific model on Liz Amazing’s RV consumer advocacy channel.
• Better Business Bureau: Read patterns of complaints (sales, delivery defects, warranty/franchise issues): BBB search: Thor Motor Coach Rize.
• Reddit community threads: Candid owner-to-owner problem-solving:
  • r/RVLiving: Thor Motor Coach Rize Problems
  • r/GoRVing: Thor Motor Coach Rize Problems
  • r/rvs: Thor Motor Coach Rize Problems
• NHTSA recall lookups: Safety recalls and defect investigations tied to the model or chassis: NHTSA recalls: Thor Motor Coach Rize.
• Owner review aggregators: RVInsider: Thor Motor Coach Rize Problems and Good Sam Community: Thor Motor Coach Rize Problems.
• PissedConsumer: Use the site’s search to find Thor/Rize complaints: PissedConsumer (search “Thor Motor Coach Rize”).
• Forums with detailed troubleshooting: Use each site’s internal search for “Rize problems.”
  • RVForums.com
  • RVForum.net
  • RVUSA Forum
• Facebook owner groups: Join multiple model-specific groups for uncensored photos and fix logs: Google search: Thor Motor Coach Rize Facebook Groups (join at least two; compare experiences).

If you’ve owned this model, add your story in the comments to help the next buyer avoid costly surprises.

Pre-Purchase Protection: Arrange a Third-Party Inspection

One of the strongest patterns across complaints—regardless of brand—is that many defects are obvious during an independent inspection but missed or glossed over during dealer walk-throughs. Insist on a third-party inspection before you sign or take possession; this is your last major leverage to get repairs completed promptly. Once the dealer has your money, repairs often move to the back of the line, and owners report cancelled camping trips while their RV sits for weeks or months waiting for parts or authorization.

• Book a certified inspector: Google search: RV Inspectors near me.
• Require a written punch list and proof-of-correction before closing.
• Do a full systems test under load: shore power, generator, inverter, all 12V circuits, plumbing under pressure, hot water, HVAC, seals/leaks with a hose test, and a long road test.

Patterns of Complaints and Failures Reported on the Thor Motor Coach Rize

Build Quality and Fit/Finish Defects

Owners frequently report that cabinetry, wall panels, trim, and hardware arrive misaligned or loosen quickly after a few trips. Complaints include stripped screws in particleboard, latches that don’t hold, mis-cut openings, dangling wires, and sloppy caulking. Squeaks and rattles are common on the short 136-inch wheelbase. While some defects are simple fixes, their prevalence suggests rushed assembly and inconsistent quality control—issues that show up across Thor’s entry-level Class B line, including sibling models to the Rize.

• Read threads aggregating workmanship concerns: Google: Build quality issues on Thor Motor Coach Rize, YouTube owner tours calling out Rize defects, and RVInsider reviews for Thor Motor Coach Rize.
• Forum search hubs: r/rvs threads on Rize quality problems.

Tip: Reject delivery if interior panels or cabinets show evidence of removal/reinstallation, as this can indicate rework after damage or poor-fitting cuts. If this happened to you, share what you found at delivery.

Water Intrusion and Sealing Failures

Water leaks are a recurrent theme: owners document moisture around roof penetrations (fans, AC, solar), side windows, and the awning rail. Some report shower pan leaks or poorly sealed wet baths leading to floor swelling and soft spots. Any water intrusion can cause mold, electrical shorts, and corrosion in a van where wiring and plumbing are routed in tight spaces behind thin walls.

• Verification sources: Google: Thor Motor Coach Rize Water Leaks and YouTube: Rize leak test and repair videos.
• Community threads: Good Sam owners on Rize leaks and r/RVLiving leak reports for Rize.

If the roof or pop-top option is fitted, insist on resealing and a water test during your inspection. Document any dampness with photos. For step-by-step expectations from consumer advocates, see Liz Amazing’s investigative RV videos and search her channel for “Rize” or “Thor Motor Coach.”

Electrical System, Charging, and Battery/Inverter Issues

Electrical complaints range from inconsistent 12V performance and miswired circuits to undersized or misconfigured solar controllers. Owners also report inverter overloads, tripped breakers under light loads, and charging problems with lithium or AGM house batteries, including alternator charging behavior not matching expectations. Some units arrive with mislabeled fuses or loose ground connections that present intermittent faults that are time-consuming to diagnose.

• Deep dives: Google: Thor Motor Coach Rize Electrical Problems and YouTube: Rize electrical troubleshooting.
• Owner review portals: RVInsider: Thor Motor Coach Rize Problems.
• Reddit threads with schematics and fixes: r/GoRVing electrical problems in Rize.

Electrical issues aren’t just inconveniences—they can create overheating risks and appliance damage. Insist on a full load test with shore power, generator, and inverter, and verify voltage/charging curves for the battery type installed.

Plumbing, Wet Bath, and Cassette Toilet Problems

On Rize 18M and similar floorplans, the wet bath, fittings, and cassette toilet are frequent pain points. Owners cite loose PEX connections that drip, poorly secured drains, misaligned shower doors/curtains leading to splashing, and odor control issues with cassettes. Gray tank sensors are often inaccurate. Repeated exposure to moisture can delaminate floor edges or swell particleboard cabinetry near the bath.

• Research: Google: Thor Motor Coach Rize Plumbing Problems, YouTube: Rize wet bath issues, and Good Sam threads on Rize bathroom problems.

Tester’s note: Run the water pump continuously for 15 minutes and physically inspect behind access panels and under the van for drips. Have the inspector remove any easy access panels to check PEX crimps and traps.

HVAC: Heating/Hot Water and Air Conditioning Reliability

Some Rize units use compact, integrated hot water/heating systems and roof ACs that are noisy and underperform in high heat. Reported issues include furnace cycling without adequate heat, hot-water inconsistencies (especially with mixed-valve settings), and AC units that struggle to cool the small interior due to poor ducting or insulation gaps. Condensation on metal frames and around windows is another common complaint in humid climates.

• Read owner experiences: Google: Thor Motor Coach Rize AC Problems and YouTube: Rize heating/hot water issues.
• Forum advice: r/RVLiving cooling and condensation threads.

Have your inspector verify BTU output, check duct seals, and confirm AC condensate routing. Window insulation kits and addressing gaps behind cabinet runs can help but shouldn’t be required on a new coach.

Generator (Onan 2800) Starting/Running Failures

Rize units equipped with the Onan QG 2800 gas generator show patterns of hard starting, stalling under load, fuel pick-up issues at low fuel levels, and vibration complaints. Some owners describe early-hour failures that require warranty visits to Cummins service centers—appointments that can be backlogged—leaving buyers without air conditioning or microwave use off-grid. Misaligned exhaust and concerns about fumes entering the cabin have also been reported; any suspected exhaust leak should be treated as an immediate safety hazard.

• Research threads: Google: Thor Motor Coach Rize Generator Problems, YouTube: Rize generator troubleshooting, and r/rvs generator problem threads.

Insist on a multi-hour generator test under load (AC + microwave + battery charging) and check for CO alarm behavior. Carry a stand-alone CO detector as a redundancy.

Weight, Payload, and Handling on the ProMaster 1500 Chassis

The ProMaster 1500’s payload is limited compared to heavier-duty van variants, and in a fully built Class B, the Occupant and Cargo Carrying Capacity (OCCC) can be tight. Owners report that after water, fuel, optional pop-top, passengers, bikes, and recovery gear, it’s easy to approach or exceed axle limits. Overloading reduces braking performance, stresses tires, and can void warranty coverage. Handling complaints (crosswind sway, nose dive under braking) are also common, with some owners adding aftermarket suspension aids to compensate.

• Verification threads: Google: Thor Motor Coach Rize Payload Problems and r/GoRVing: Rize weight/handling discussions.
• Owner reviews highlighting OCCC: RVInsider: Rize owner reports on weight limits.

Weigh your fully loaded van at a CAT scale and compare to door-sticker axle ratings. If weights are marginal at delivery, document it immediately.

Service Delays, Warranty Denials, and Parts Availability

Multi-month service delays and frustrating warranty experiences are among the most frequently cited complaints. Owners describe back-and-forth between dealers, Thor, and component makers (e.g., Cummins for generator, appliance vendors) with each party deflecting responsibility. Parts shortages add weeks to timelines. Meanwhile, trips get cancelled as the coach sits at the dealer—often outdoors—awaiting authorization or parts. Some buyers report being deprioritized post-sale compared to new sales prospects.

• Complaint hubs: BBB complaints referencing Thor Motor Coach Rize, Google: Thor Motor Coach Rize Warranty Problems, and Reddit warranty complaint threads.

This is why a pre-delivery, third-party inspection is critical. If issues aren’t corrected before closing, you have less leverage later. If you’ve been stuck in the service queue, post how long you waited and for what repairs.

Marketing vs. Reality: Overhyped Amenities and Usability Gaps

Shoppers often expect “plug-and-play” boondocking based on brochures that highlight solar, lithium options, or generator runtime. In practice, the base electrical system is modest; real-world air conditioning off-grid requires either shore power, long generator run-times, or a robust lithium upgrade not always included. Storage is tight in short-wheelbase vans, and the pop-top, while fun for families, can add noise, weight, and sealing complexities. Some buyers feel the “adventure-ready” pitch undersells compromises in payload, climate control, and maintenance.

• Owner reality checks: YouTube: Rize reviews highlighting trade-offs and Google: Thor Motor Coach Rize Complaints.
• Consumer advocacy perspective: search on Liz Amazing’s channel for “Rize” and “Thor Motor Coach” to see discussions about how marketing can diverge from ownership reality.

Safety Recalls and Regulatory Actions

Recalls can originate from Thor Motor Coach, component suppliers (e.g., appliances, seat systems), or the chassis manufacturer (RAM/Stellantis). Because the Rize rides on a ProMaster platform, some recalls may apply to the chassis rather than the RV conversion. Always check both the RV and chassis VINs for active campaigns. Start with: NHTSA recall search for Thor Motor Coach Rize.

• Chassis recalls: Items like airbags, seatbelt tensioners, rearview camera software, or brake system components may trigger RAM ProMaster recalls. Enter your VIN in the NHTSA database to confirm.
• Coach recalls: Thor-issued recalls may address improper fasteners, propane routing, electrical harnesses, or pop-top/roof components. Owners should monitor NHTSA and dealer bulletins.
• Appliance/component recalls: Generator, refrigerator, furnace, and water heater suppliers sometimes issue recalls independent of Thor—these still affect your safety and warranty coverage.

If a recall exists on your VIN and parts are delayed, document all communications and request interim safety guidance. If you encountered recall-related delays or unresolved safety items, describe the timeline you experienced.

Legal and Regulatory Warnings

Consumers have rights when products do not conform to warranties or pose safety risks. Based on public complaints about the Rize (warranty delays, unresolved defects, water intrusion, electrical failures), these are the key frameworks to understand:

• Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act (federal): Requires clear, enforceable warranty terms and timely repairs. If a warrantor fails to repair defects within a reasonable number of attempts or time, consumers may pursue remedies including attorney’s fees.
• State Lemon Laws: While often aimed at cars/trucks, some states cover motorhomes (sometimes coach vs. chassis treated differently). If your Rize has substantial defects within the defined period/mileage and isn’t repaired after reasonable attempts, you may qualify for replacement or refund.
• Uniform Commercial Code (UCC): Provides for breach of implied warranties (merchantability/fitness) when a product fails to perform as ordinarily expected.
• FTC and state AG oversight: Misrepresentations in marketing or unfair/deceptive practices (e.g., advertising features that don’t exist as delivered, or systemic warranty stonewalling) can be reported to the Federal Trade Commission or your state attorney general.
• NHTSA reporting: Safety-related defects (fuel, brakes, steering, fire, carbon monoxide ingress) should be reported to NHTSA to trigger investigations or recalls.

Documentation matters: keep dated photos, videos, work orders, repair attempt counts, and written timelines. If you face persistent failures under warranty, consult a consumer protection attorney who specializes in RV cases. For community discussions of potential legal angles, browse: BBB complaints for Thor Motor Coach Rize and Reddit: Thor Motor Coach Rize complaints.

Product and Safety Impact Analysis

From a risk standpoint, the problems most likely to affect your safety and finances are:

• Water intrusion and electrical shorts: Leaks near electrical components raise shock and fire risks. Even “minor” water ingress can corrode connections or create hidden mold in a sealed van body, impacting health and resale value.
• Generator exhaust and CO risk: A malfunctioning or misrouted generator exhaust is an immediate hazard. Redundant CO detection is recommended.
• Weight/payload margins: Exceeding axle ratings degrades braking and tire safety; it may also shift liability in an accident and undermine warranty claims. The short wheelbase can amplify handling quirks when loaded near capacity.
• Delayed warranty and parts: Extended downtimes can trigger cascading costs—lost reservations, storage fees, rental cars/hotels, and accelerated depreciation for a unit with documented repairs early in life.

Financially, frequent service visits and unresolved defects hurt resale. Shoppers increasingly research VIN histories and forum posts; a Rize with repeated leak or electrical notes will be harder to move. That said, thorough pre-delivery inspections and immediate remediation can reduce these risks before they become chronic.

Cost of Ownership and Depreciation Risks

Class B vans typically hold value better than towables, but that advantage erodes if early-life defects go unresolved. On the Rize, the combination of QC punch lists, electrical diagnostics, and potential generator service can raise your first-year costs and time investment. Consider:

• Opportunity cost: Months in the shop during peak season means wasted campground deposits and lost travel time.
• Repair logistics: If your dealer prioritizes sales over service, you may be encouraged to use third-party specialists for components—which can complicate warranty coordination.
• Resale stigma: A Carfax-style history isn’t universal for RVs, but savvy buyers will ask for service records. Early leak/electrical notes often drive offers down.

Mitigation: a rigorous pre-delivery inspection and a 30-day shakedown period near home, with immediate return for corrections, can front-load fixes while you still have dealer attention. Search local options: RV Inspectors near me.

Quality Improvements and Owner Tips

Owners have noted incremental improvements in later ProMaster chassis years (e.g., updates to safety tech and drivetrains) and periodic component updates within Thor’s supply chain. Some dealers report better pre-delivery inspection checklists compared to the pandemic-era surge. However, consistent, model-wide build quality improvements are difficult to verify across all production runs.

• Actionable tips for buyers:
  • Demand a water intrusion test and reseal suspect penetrations before signing.
  • Load test the electrical system with every major appliance on; verify battery type and charge settings.
  • Run the generator for at least two hours under AC load; check CO alarms.
  • Weigh the van on a CAT scale with your typical gear. Compare to OCCC on the door sticker.
  • Inspect plumbing connections behind panels and under the shower pan; leave the pump running to reveal slow drips.
  • Get everything in writing on a punch list with completion dates tied to delivery.

To see how experienced RVers uncover problems and hold manufacturers accountable, search your model on Liz Amazing’s YouTube channel. And if you’ve solved a tricky Rize defect, post your fix steps to help the next owner. For inspector referrals, try: RV Inspectors near me.

Owner Voices: Where the Evidence Leads

Across Google reviews, forums, and video diaries, the common threads for the Thor Motor Coach Rize are:

• Early-life punch lists are the rule, not the exception. Even brand-new units often need cabinet rehanging, sealant rework, or minor rewiring before reliable use.
• Water management is crucial. Any leak amplifies the risk of secondary electrical issues and mold inside a tightly packaged van.
• Power expectations must be realistic. Running AC off-grid requires planning; many buyers underestimate the generator runtime and lithium investment needed.
• Service coordination is a pain point. Dealer bottlenecks and supplier handoffs (generator, appliances) slow repairs and frustrate owners.
• Payload margins encourage discipline. Keep loads light, weigh early, and consider suspension upgrades only after verifying actual weights and tire pressures.

For a comprehensive window into these patterns, browse cross-platform searches: YouTube: Thor Motor Coach Rize Problems, Google: Thor Motor Coach Rize Problems, and Reddit: Thor Motor Coach Rize Problems. Lastly, see how consumer advocates frame these industry-wide issues by searching the model on Liz Amazing’s investigative channel. If you’ve navigated these challenges, add your voice to our comments.

Bottom Line and Recommendation

The Thor Motor Coach Rize offers an accessible footprint and an attractive price point for a Class B, but the volume of owner reports about workmanship defects, leaks, electrical anomalies, generator trouble, warranty delays, and tight payload margins is too significant to ignore. While diligent pre-delivery inspections and immediate correction can help, the pattern of post-sale service bottlenecks adds financial and time risk—especially to first-time buyers expecting a turnkey experience.

Our recommendation: Do not purchase the Thor Motor Coach Rize without a rigorous third-party inspection, documented remediation before delivery, and a dealer service plan you trust. If those conditions cannot be met, we do not recommend this model; consider alternative Class B brands or higher-spec builds with better-documented quality control and stronger payload margins.

Have you found a Rize that defies these trends—or one that confirms them? Add your experience so shoppers see the full picture.

Comments

Owners and shoppers: What’s your first-hand experience with the Thor Motor Coach Rize—defects, fixes, timelines, and outcomes? Your detailed account helps the next buyer avoid expensive mistakes. Please include model year, floorplan, and whether issues were resolved under warranty.