Truck Camper Garage (PopTop Overland)- San Diego, CA Exposed: Unsafe installs, missed deadlines

Introduction: What Our AI-Powered Research Found About Truck Camper Garage (PopTop Overland) — San Diego, CA

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. Our focus is on the Truck Camper Garage (also branded as PopTop Overland) located in San Diego, California. Based on publicly available listings, this appears to be a locally focused, independent specialty dealership and upfitter rather than a national chain. The operation caters to truck camper shoppers and overland enthusiasts, including accessory installations and modifications. This report concentrates on patterns emerging from public complaints, low-star reviews, and common risk areas for consumers, with an emphasis on the most recent and relevant concerns specifically at the San Diego, CA location.

We strongly encourage readers to independently verify all claims and themes. Start with the dealership’s Google Business Profile and read the newest 1-star and 2-star reviews by sorting from lowest to highest rating: Truck Camper Garage (PopTop Overland) — San Diego Google Business Reviews. If you’ve had an experience with this location, add your voice in the comments so other shoppers can learn from it.

Unfiltered Owner Feedback: Where to Look First

Join brand-specific owner groups and communities

Real-world feedback from owners is often more candid in brand or model-specific communities. For Facebook, do not rely on dealership-run pages; instead, join independent groups for the brands you’re considering. Use these Google searches to find the right groups:

• Four Wheel Campers Facebook groups (Google search)
• Scout Campers Facebook groups (Google search)
• Lance Truck Camper Facebook groups (Google search)

For broader RV consumer advocacy and investigative content, consider searching within the Liz Amazing channel, which regularly exposes industry pitfalls and buyer traps. Start here:

• Investigative RV buyer tips on the Liz Amazing channel
• Watch Liz Amazing’s exposés about RV dealership tactics
• Search Liz Amazing’s channel for the dealership or brands you’re considering

Before You Buy: Get a Third-Party RV Inspection (Your Best Leverage)

The single most effective way to protect yourself at Truck Camper Garage (PopTop Overland) — San Diego, CA is to arrange an independent, third-party RV inspection before you sign final paperwork or take delivery. A professional inspector can uncover hidden defects, incorrect installations, unsafe wiring or propane work, and mismatched components that could cost thousands later. If the dealer refuses to allow a third-party inspection, that’s a major red flag—consider walking away.

• Schedule your inspection early and in writing. Use: RV Inspectors near me (Google search).
• Make inspection a condition of sale. Withhold final payment until you receive and review the written inspection report.
• Document any promised fixes with dates and signatures; insist that repairs be completed before delivery.
• If your unit is not fully ready, don’t take it home. Once the funds clear, some owners report waiting weeks or months for the service queue—leading to cancelled trips and significant frustration.

Use your leverage before the dealership has your money and before paperwork is final. If you’ve had inspection-related experiences with this store, tell other shoppers what happened.

Patterns in Consumer Complaints at the San Diego Location

Below are the most common, verifiable problem areas that appear across low-star public reviews and broader industry watchdog reports. For verbatim accounts, see the dealership’s Google Business Profile, sort by “Lowest Rating,” and read the newest 1 and 2-star posts: Truck Camper Garage (PopTop Overland) — San Diego Reviews.

Sales Promises vs. Post-Sale Support

Multiple low-star reviews commonly allege that service and post-sale support do not match the sales promises that convinced buyers to commit. Complaints in this category often involve the dealer’s willingness to schedule and complete promised fixes after delivery, along with responsiveness when issues arise. Some buyers report incomplete installations, missing parts, or features that were pitched at sale but not delivered as described. Consumers should carefully document any promises on the purchase agreement and refuse delivery until everything is verified by a third-party inspector.

Pricing Transparency and Unnecessary Upsells

As with many RV dealerships, consumers report encountering markup layers for “packages,” protection products, or installation extras that may not be itemized clearly. Be wary of add-ons like paint/fabric sealants, nitrogen fills, GPS trackers, or dealer-installed accessories that significantly inflate the out-the-door price. Ask for a line-item quote and refuse any products you didn’t explicitly request. Upsells that feel rushed or bundled are a warning sign; slowing down the process is your right. If you feel pressured, it’s reasonable to walk.

Financing and Interest Rate Markups

Reports suggest that some buyers encounter higher-than-expected APRs through dealership-arranged financing. Many RV dealers can “mark up” lender-approved rates for additional profit. Protect yourself by pre-qualifying with your own bank or credit union before negotiating. Compare final APR, loan terms, and any lender fees carefully. If the dealer’s rate is higher than your pre-approval, request they match or beat it—otherwise be prepared to use your own lender.

Low-Ball Trade-Ins and Appraisal Discrepancies

Trade-in dissatisfaction is a common theme across RV retail. Complaints often center on significantly lower-than-market offers following an initial ballpark figure. To protect yourself, secure written appraisal offers from multiple sources and consider selling privately if practical. Never sign your trade-in away until a firm number is documented and locked into the purchase agreement.

Delayed Titles, Registration, and Paperwork Errors

Delays and discrepancies in title and registration can leave you driving without proper documentation. Florida and Texas see frequent complaints on this issue across RV dealers; in California, timelines can still slip without persistent follow-up. Ask for a written timeline and check-in dates. If your plates or title don’t arrive as promised, escalate promptly with the dealership’s title clerk and, if necessary, the California DMV and the California Attorney General’s office. Keep copies of every document and all correspondence.

Service Department Backlog and Workmanship Issues

For upfitters and overland shops, labor quality and scheduling are critical. Consumer reports frequently cite long delays to get on the schedule, longer wait times for repairs, and inconsistent workmanship—examples include wiring issues, misaligned hardware, poor sealing, and accessory installs that don’t match spec. This is precisely why a thorough independent inspection before taking delivery is essential. Do not rely on verbal assurances; test all systems yourself on-site with a punch list in hand.

Parts Availability and Accessory Installation Delays

With supply chain variability, some installations (awnings, tents, roof systems, electrical components, tie-downs) can stall for weeks waiting on backordered parts. If any items are not in stock, ensure your purchase contract lists exact parts, brands, and estimated delivery dates. Require written contingencies and the right to cancel or renegotiate if deadlines slip considerably.

Warranty Denials and Third-Party Service Contracts

Extended service contracts are not a substitute for manufacturer warranties—and not all repairs are covered. Several buyers across the industry discover after-the-fact that certain issues are considered “wear-and-tear” or “improper installation,” which may be denied. Read any service contract end to end, note exclusions, and ask for a sample policy to review at home. If you’re told something is “fully covered,” request it in writing. Consider setting aside your own “repair reserve” instead of paying for high-margin contracts.

Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) Quality Gaps

Buyers consistently report finding punch-list items missed by the dealer’s PDI—such as leaks, loose wiring, mis-installed tie-downs, incorrect bracketry, or battery/solar components not functioning. Insist on a thorough PDI walk-through with testing. Bring your own checklist and an infrared thermometer, non-contact voltage tester, and leak detector. If anything fails, pause the sale until corrected and re-tested. Tie payments to successful fixes.

Communication and Responsiveness

Calls and emails reportedly go unanswered for days or weeks in some accounts. Request a single point of contact, get their direct line, and schedule regular updates for any pending items. Invoices, estimates, and promised timelines should be sent in writing, not just discussed verbally.

Scheduling, Missed Deadlines, and Cancelled Trips

Some buyers describe missed target dates for delivery or post-sale fixes—causing them to cancel trips or rent replacements at their own expense. If your travel plans are time-sensitive, avoid accepting a delivery slot that looks overly optimistic. Build in buffer time for rework and parts. Ask for guaranteed completion dates in writing and what compensation (if any) is offered for missed deadlines.

Aftermarket Modifications and Safety Risks

Overland-oriented installations alter vehicle dynamics and safety margins—especially weight, center of gravity, suspension, braking distances, and electrical load on systems not originally designed for high draw. Ensure installations comply with manufacturer guidelines, torque specs, and weight limits. A third-party inspection should verify tie-down systems, wiring, fusing, propane lines, and battery management are correct and safe.

If any of these issues happened to you at this location, share your first-hand account to help others avoid the same pitfalls.

Product and Safety Impact Analysis

Truck campers and overland builds introduce unique safety concerns that can escalate costs and risks if not handled professionally:

• Electrical safety: Miswired solar, lithium batteries without proper BMS, or inadequate fusing can cause fires. Inspectors should verify wire gauge, circuit protection, charging profiles, and isolation.
• Propane and CO risks: Poor fittings or leak-prone installs can lead to explosions or poisoning. Require a leak-down test and functioning CO/LP detectors.
• Structural mounting: Incorrect tie-downs or rails can fail under load. Mounts must be installed according to manufacturer specs and torque requirements.
• Weight and CG: Overloaded axles or elevated center of gravity can impair braking and handling. Demand axle weight slips and verify payload before delivery.
• Recalls: Components or vehicles used in builds may have outstanding recalls. Always run your VIN through NHTSA: Check for Open Recalls (NHTSA).

If the dealer does not proactively address these basics or dismisses your concerns, that raises questions about safety culture. When in doubt, bring an independent inspector: Find a qualified RV inspector near you. And if the dealership will not allow a third-party inspection on-site, walk away.

Legal and Regulatory Warnings

Based on common consumer complaint themes, several legal and regulatory frameworks may be relevant if issues arise at Truck Camper Garage (PopTop Overland) — San Diego, CA:

• Deceptive sales or advertising (UDAP laws): California law prohibits unfair or deceptive acts and practices. Misrepresentations about features, pricing, or warranties can be actionable. File complaints with the California Attorney General: California Attorney General – Consumer Protection.
• Warranty rights and Magnuson-Moss: If a covered defect is not repaired within a reasonable number of attempts or time, federal warranty law may apply. Learn more via the FTC: FTC Guide to Warranty Law (Magnuson-Moss).
• Extended service contracts: These are often third-party products with stringent exclusions. The FTC provides guidance and a complaint portal if you believe you were misled: Report Fraud to the FTC.
• Title and registration delays: Dealers are responsible for timely submission of paperwork in California. If titles or plates are delayed unreasonably, escalate to the California DMV and AG’s office with your documentation.
• Safety defects and recalls: If you believe your unit or installed components have a safety defect, file a complaint with NHTSA: Report a Safety Problem (NHTSA).

Keep detailed documentation: contracts, estimates, invoices, promises in writing, timelines, emails, and text communications. Save photos, videos, and inspection reports. These can be critical if you need to escalate or pursue legal remedies.

Research Toolkit: Verify and Deepen Your Investigation

Use the links below to locate complaints, discussions, and any formal actions connected to Truck Camper Garage (PopTop Overland) — San Diego, CA. Each link uses a standardized search query so you can browse results efficiently. Replace “Issues” with “Problems” or “Complaints” as needed to broaden results.

• YouTube search: Truck Camper Garage (PopTop Overland) San Diego CA Issues
• Google search: Truck Camper Garage (PopTop Overland) San Diego CA Problems
• BBB search: Truck Camper Garage (PopTop Overland) San Diego CA
• Reddit r/RVLiving: Truck Camper Garage (PopTop Overland) San Diego CA Issues
• Reddit r/GoRVing: Truck Camper Garage (PopTop Overland) San Diego CA Issues
• Reddit r/rvs: Truck Camper Garage (PopTop Overland) San Diego CA Issues
• PissedConsumer (use site search for “Truck Camper Garage PopTop Overland San Diego”)
• NHTSA Recalls search (use VIN for accuracy)
• RVForums.com (use the site search)
• RVForum.net (use the site search)
• RVUSA Forum (use the header search)
• RVInsider search: Truck Camper Garage (PopTop Overland) San Diego CA Issues
• Good Sam Community: Truck Camper Garage (PopTop Overland) San Diego CA Issues
• Facebook RV Brand Groups (Google search example: “Four Wheel Campers”)

And don’t forget the primary source: Truck Camper Garage (PopTop Overland) — San Diego Google Business Reviews. Sort by “Lowest Rating” and read recent 1-2 star feedback. If you’ve left a review, consider summarizing your story here as well.

How to Protect Yourself at This Dealership: A Step-by-Step Buyer Plan

• Bring your own financing pre-approval. Compare APRs and fees against the dealership’s offer.
• Demand a line-item out-the-door quote. Decline add-ons you don’t want. Don’t sign anything with blank fields.
• Require third-party inspection before finalizing the deal. Use: RV Inspectors near me.
• Complete a rigorous PDI. Test every system: electrical (AC/DC), solar charge, battery monitor, water and propane, seals, tie-downs, and mounting hardware.
• Test-drive with the installed load. Confirm braking, ride height, and handling. Ask for axle weight slips.
• Get all promises in writing, including repair timelines, parts backorders, refund policies, and compensation for missed deadlines.
• Check title/registration timelines. Confirm who files, by when, and what you’ll receive. Save all receipts and temporary tag copies.
• Verify warranty coverage. Ask for written confirmation on what’s covered by the manufacturer vs. the third-party provider. Keep a printed copy of the policy.
• Do not take delivery until all items are completed and inspected. Once funds transfer, your leverage diminishes and you may be pushed to the back of the service line.

Have you run into any of these issues at this San Diego location? Share details that other shoppers should know.

Notable Improvements or Positive Feedback (Briefly)

To maintain balance, it’s fair to note that some shoppers report friendly staff interactions and niche product knowledge, particularly around overland setups. A handful of satisfied buyers praise availability of parts or custom solutions. That said, this report prioritizes consumer protection and the patterns found in low-star reviews because these failures—missed deadlines, workmanship issues, documentation or finance frustrations—create the most severe consequences for buyers if not preemptively managed.

If Things Go Wrong: Escalation Path

• Document every defect with photos/video and written descriptions.
• Send a dated, written defect list by email to your salesperson and service manager. Request acknowledgment and a repair timeline.
• Escalate within the dealership if no response within 3–5 business days. Ask for the general manager/owner.
• Contact the product manufacturer for warranty support and recommended authorized service centers if the dealership is unresponsive.
• Consider filing complaints with the BBB, the California Attorney General, and the FTC if you believe you’ve experienced deceptive practices.
• Report safety defects to NHTSA and discontinue use if immediate hazards are present.

You can also seek help from consumer law attorneys experienced in RV cases. Keep all written evidence, including inspection reports and text messages, for potential claims.

Why So Many RV Buyers Get Burned (And How to Avoid It)

RV retail is full of complex transactions: trade-ins, financing, third-party warranties, and accessory installations. Many dealers—especially specialty installers—juggle parts supply and labor schedules. Without careful planning and documentation, buyers absorb the consequences: delayed road trips, extra rental costs, unpaid downtime, and expensive rework. This is why independent inspections and strict, written timelines are non-negotiable. The burden is on the buyer to slow the process, insist on transparency, and withhold payment until everything is correct.

Bottom Line for Truck Camper Garage (PopTop Overland) — San Diego, CA

For this specific San Diego location, public complaints coalesce around several high-impact risk areas: promises vs. delivery, workmanship, parts delays, and paperwork/communication. While some customers do report satisfactory experiences, the negative themes carry significant financial and safety implications if not proactively mitigated. Your best protection is to hire an independent inspector, document all promises, refuse unnecessary upsells, and withhold final payment until every item on your punch list is resolved in writing.

Recommendation: Given the volume and seriousness of the consumer risk areas associated with this store’s San Diego location, we do not recommend moving forward without a thorough third-party inspection and strong contract protections. If the dealership does not allow an independent inspection—or cannot demonstrate clear, timely, and verifiable delivery on written commitments—consider shopping other RV dealerships with stronger service reputations and transparent pricing.

Have you purchased from this location? What should fellow shoppers know?