Wana RV Center- Shipshewana, IN Exposed: hidden fees, PDI misses, title delays, service backlogs
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Wana RV Center- Shipshewana, IN
Location: 1180 N Van Buren St, Shipshewana, IN 46565
Contact Info:
• Main: (260) 768-4165
• TollFree: (877) 655-5703
• sales@wanarv.com
• info@wanarv.com
Official Report ID: 2555
Introduction: Who Wana RV Center Is and Why This Report Exists
AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. Wana RV Center is a privately owned RV dealership located in Shipshewana, Indiana. It is not part of a national chain. The dealership markets a range of towable RVs and has operated for years in northern Indiana’s RV corridor. While some buyers report fair pricing and straightforward transactions, a sizable body of recent consumer feedback raises serious concerns about sales practices, pre-delivery inspections (PDI), title and paperwork delays, service backlogs, and post-sale support. This report consolidates patterns of complaints to help shoppers understand the risks before committing to a purchase.
To verify feedback for yourself, start with the dealership’s Google Business profile and sort by “Lowest rating” to focus on recent 1- and 2-star experiences: Google Business Reviews for Wana RV Center – Shipshewana, IN. Use “Sort by Lowest rating” to see the most critical issues from recent buyers.
Unfiltered Owner Feedback: Where to Hear from Real RV Owners
- Read recent low-star Google reviews, then cross-check themes on RV forums and owner groups.
- Join brand-specific Facebook owner groups for the RV you’re considering to see day-to-day ownership realities and dealer-specific experiences. Use this search to find groups: Search Google for RV brand Facebook groups (try several groups, not just one).
- Investigative YouTube channels are surfacing systemic RV industry problems. See channel resources such as Liz Amazing’s investigations; search her channel for the dealership and brands you’re considering.
If you’ve bought from this location recently, what happened? Tell other shoppers what you wish you knew.
Before You Buy: Independent RV Inspection Is Your Only Real Leverage
Across many consumer reports, the highest risk window is immediately before and after delivery. To prevent expensive surprises, insist on hiring a third-party NRVIA-certified inspector or an equally qualified professional of your choosing to perform a comprehensive inspection before you sign final documents or take possession. Use this query to find options near the dealership: Search: RV Inspectors near me.
- Do not rely solely on the dealership’s PDI. Independent inspectors catch water intrusion, miswired or overloaded circuits, axle/tire mismatches, propane leaks, delamination, and frame or slide alignment defects the seller might miss—or avoid addressing.
- Your leverage disappears after you sign and drive away. If issues appear later, you may be pushed to the end of the service line for weeks or months. That’s how planned trips get canceled and seasonal camping is ruined.
- If any dealer refuses to allow a third-party inspection on their lot, consider it a major red flag—walk away.
You can also line up a mobile inspection at delivery if you must finalize offsite: Find a mobile RV inspector near you. And for consumer education on what inspectors look for, review independent content such as Liz Amazing’s RV inspection breakdowns and search her channel for the brands Wana RV Center sells.
Investigative Findings: Sales and Purchase Experience
Pricing Transparency and Out-the-Door Surprises
Recent low-star Google reviews and forum posts commonly describe mismatch between quoted or advertised pricing and the final “out-the-door” figure. Consumers report confusion around line items and dealer fees, sometimes only revealed during paperwork. The consistent advice from experienced owners is to demand a written, itemized out-the-door price early—including all fees, taxes, registration, and optional add-ons—and to reject any last-minute charges presented in the finance office.
- Ask for a written buyer’s order before you travel to the dealership.
- Require that all fees be enumerated in writing—no blank lines, no “TBD” items.
- Bring a calculator and pause the process if numbers don’t reconcile with prior agreements.
See consumer narratives directly by sorting low-star reviews: Google Business Reviews for Wana RV Center – Shipshewana, IN. If you’ve had issues in finance or with quote changes, share the details for other shoppers.
High-Pressure Upsells: Add-Ons and Questionable Value Products
Common across many dealerships—and echoed in complaints linked to this location—are aggressive pitches for paint protection, interior coatings, tire-and-wheel coverage, nitrogen fills, VIN etching, GPS anti-theft, and bundled “protection packages.” These are profit centers. Some owners report difficulty using such products later, or find coverage terms highly restrictive. Extended service contracts are also widely sold but may contain exclusions that are misunderstood at purchase.
- Ask for blank copies of any service contract or add-on agreement to review at home.
- Calculate the long-term cost versus probable benefit; many of these products can be purchased later (and cheaper) from third parties.
- Refuse any add-on you didn’t explicitly request. If pushed, be prepared to walk.
For a broader view of how such upsells can backfire, check consumer education pieces from investigative creators like Liz Amazing’s channel on RV dealership tactics.
Financing Terms and Interest Rates
Multiple low-star reviews across the RV industry (including references to this dealership) describe unexpected financing terms at signing—higher APRs than verbally discussed, optional products pre-checked in finance software, and payment figures changing. While dealers can shop your loan, it’s your responsibility to secure a fair rate.
- Arrive pre-approved through your credit union or bank. That sets a benchmark rate.
- Decline any unwanted add-on that changes your payment; ensure it’s removed and a new finance contract is printed for signature.
- Request the “buy rate” from the lender; if your rate is marked up, you have the right to negotiate or use your own financing.
Low-Ball Trade-In Offers and Valuation Disputes
Consumers frequently allege that trade-in values drop once they’re on-site, or after a preliminary appraisal. While reconditioning and market shifts are real, large, last-minute reductions are a known pressure tactic. Secure multiple written offers for your trade, and be prepared to sell privately if feasible.
- Get written appraisals from at least two outlets before visiting the dealership.
- Separate the transaction: negotiate trade value, sale price, and financing independently.
- If the offer changes without a credible written justification, walk away.
Delivery, Condition, and Early Ownership
Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) Shortcomings
Several low-star comments report problems discovered within days of delivery—leaks, slide issues, nonfunctional appliances, heating/cooling faults, and cosmetic or fit-and-finish defects that should have been caught during PDI. The risk is acute for first-time owners who may not know what to check.
- Hire your own inspector: Find a certified RV inspector near you.
- Bring a written, comprehensive PDI checklist. Test water systems (pressurized and pump), electrical systems (shore, generator, inverter), propane (appliances and pressure), slides, seals, roof, and underbelly.
- Refuse delivery until defects are corrected and re-verified. Get corrections in writing.
Delayed Titles, Plates, and Paperwork
In recent low-star Google reviews for Wana RV Center, consumers describe delays in receiving titles and registration paperwork. While some delays are tied to state processing or lender interactions, patterns of late paperwork can leave buyers unable to tow legally, jeopardize travel plans, and complicate insurance claims if an incident occurs before tags arrive.
- Ask for a realistic timeline for title and registration, and get a point-of-contact for follow-up.
- Document every phone call and email if promised dates slip.
- If statutory timeframes are missed, consider filing a complaint with the Indiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.
Service Department Performance and Warranty Support
Long Waits and Scheduling Bottlenecks
Industry-wide service backlogs are severe, and reviews tied to this location reflect that reality. Owners describe weeks-long waits for diagnosis and months for repairs—especially when parts are backordered or the dealership prioritizes sales over service. The result is lost camping seasons and warranty clocks running while the RV sits.
- Ask for a capacity estimate: number of bays, technicians, and average turnaround times for common issues.
- Get written commitments for diagnostic appointment dates and follow-ups.
- If possible, use a mobile RV tech for minor warranty work approved by the manufacturer.
Workmanship, Re-Work, and Communication Gaps
Multiple consumers report returning for re-work—repairs not fixed right the first time or new issues introduced. Communication lapses (unanswered calls or vague status updates) amplify frustration. Good shops photograph issues, provide written findings, and return old parts when possible. Demand documented diagnostics and a written repair plan.
- Ask for photos of issues found and repairs completed; keep copies for your records.
- Request return of replaced parts (unless exchanged under warranty) to verify work.
- Escalate to the service manager if promised callbacks do not occur within 48 hours.
Parts Delays and Manufacturer Coordination
Parts shortages persist across many RV brands. Consumers note delays getting components and coordinating with manufacturers on warranty authorizations. This can stall even simple fixes. When you submit a warranty claim, ask the service team to provide the authorization number and expected shipping dates. Confirm whether they’ve begun “triage repairs” that can safely be done while waiting for specialized parts.
Warranty Claims and Denials
Some complaints allege coverage denials due to perceived “owner misuse” or maintenance documentation gaps. Familiarize yourself with your manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and keep receipts, photos, and logs. If denied, request the denial in writing and escalate with the manufacturer. Many brands allow work by approved mobile techs—ask the dealership to coordinate if their bays are overbooked.
Product and Safety Impact Analysis
Why Early Defects and Delayed Repairs Are More Than Annoyances
Defects reported shortly after purchase often involve water intrusion, electrical faults, and brake/axle/tire issues. These are safety hazards:
- Water intrusion can lead to mold and structural rot, compromising the frame and floor integrity and potentially creating respiratory risks.
- Mains wiring or 12V system faults can start fires or damage appliances and battery systems.
- Running gear issues (bearing, brake, tire) can cause on-road failures, loss of control, and accidents.
RV recalls are common. Search recalls for the brand and model you’re considering—and review dealer coordination on recall completion timeframes. Start here: NHTSA recall search (use your exact RV year/make/model). If recall work is delayed, document your communications; safety recalls should be prioritized by the dealership and manufacturer.
To understand common RV safety pitfalls and owner experiences, supplement your research with independent education, including investigations on Liz Amazing’s YouTube channel; then search that channel for the brands Wana RV Center sells and specific failure modes (e.g., slide motors, frames, roofs).
If you’ve dealt with safety-critical failures tied to this dealership’s PDI or repairs, add your story to help others.
Legal and Regulatory Warnings
Your Rights and Where to File Complaints
Consumer complaints described in public forums often touch on unfair and deceptive practices, warranty mishandling, and delayed paperwork. While each case is unique, these laws and agencies may apply:
- Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (federal): Governs written warranties and prohibits deceptive warranty terms. Learn more: FTC guide to federal warranty law.
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Handles deceptive advertising and sales practices. File a complaint: ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Indiana Attorney General, Consumer Protection Division: For state-level consumer complaints regarding sales, titling, and deceptive practices. Start here: Indiana Consumer Protection.
- NHTSA (safety defects, recalls): File a safety complaint if your RV or its components present a hazard: NHTSA safety complaint.
- Better Business Bureau: Check the BBB profile for patterns of complaints and the dealer’s responses: BBB search for Wana RV Center – Shipshewana, IN.
If your title is significantly delayed beyond reasonable or statutory timeframes, consult Indiana BMV guidance and consider legal counsel. Keep a paper trail: buyer’s order, emails, texts, delivery date, promises, and any temporary registrations issued.
How to Verify: Independent Research Links
Use these searches to cross-check claims and find real owner stories. Replace “Issues” with “Problems” or “Complaints” as needed, and use the “lowest rating” sort where applicable.
- YouTube search: Wana RV Center Shipshewana IN Issues
- Google search: Wana RV Center Shipshewana IN Issues
- BBB search: Wana RV Center Shipshewana IN Issues
- Reddit r/RVLiving: Wana RV Center Shipshewana IN Issues
- Reddit r/GoRVing: Wana RV Center Shipshewana IN Issues
- Reddit r/rvs: Wana RV Center Shipshewana IN Issues
- NHTSA Recalls: Wana RV Center Shipshewana IN Issues (enter your exact RV year/make/model)
- RVInsider: Wana RV Center Shipshewana IN Issues
- Good Sam Community: Wana RV Center Shipshewana IN Issues
- Liz Amazing’s YouTube channel (search for Wana RV Center)
- PissedConsumer: Go to PissedConsumer and search manually for “Wana RV Center Shipshewana IN Issues.”
- Owner Forums: RVForums.com, RVForum.net, and RVUSA Forums (use each forum’s search for “Wana RV Center Shipshewana IN Issues”).
Have you found a source that confirms or disproves a concern in this report? Post the link to help the next buyer.
What Consumers Report Most Often When Things Go Wrong
“In-and-Out” PDIs That Miss Big Problems
Skimming a unit with a quick run-through is not enough. Repeated owner stories describe leaks after the first rain, non-functional heaters or refrigerators on day one, and slide alignment problems that mar floors or jam in campgrounds. These failures are not always the brand’s fault alone; dealers bear responsibility to catch and correct defects before delivery.
Communication Blackouts After the Sale
When titles, repairs, or parts are delayed, owners expect clear timelines and updates. Multiple low-star reviews recount unreturned calls, shifting dates, or limited outreach. While backlogs happen, silence worsens outcomes—and undermines trust.
Service Queue Triage vs. Paying Customers
It’s common for dealerships to prioritize new deliveries and high-margin work. Owners allege that warranty and post-sale services get pushed back. Ask how the service department prioritizes jobs and whether they use mobile vendors to ease bottlenecks. This is especially important if you’re an out-of-town buyer planning to camp immediately after pickup.
What Wana RV Center Might Be Doing Right (Acknowledgements)
Balanced reporting includes acknowledging that some buyers report fair deals, approachable staff, and transactions that go smoothly. You’ll find positive reviews praising prices or courteous communication. However, the negative experiences documented above—particularly around PDI quality, paperwork timing, and service delays—are significant enough that every shopper should navigate the process with eyes fully open and leverage independent inspections and clear paperwork to protect themselves. Always reconcile the most recent 1- and 2-star feedback with 4- and 5-star reviews to judge consistency and trend direction: Check Wana RV Center’s Google reviews (sort both ways).
Consumer Protection Checklist (Use This at Wana RV Center)
- Inspection first: Hire an independent inspector before signing. If refused, walk.
- Itemized out-the-door price: Get everything in writing, including every fee.
- Finance clarity: Arrive pre-approved; reject unwanted add-ons; verify the APR.
- PDI time: Spend hours, not minutes. Run water on city and pump, heat and cool cycles, slides, all appliances, and check roof/underbelly.
- Paperwork: Confirm title and registration timelines in writing with a named point-of-contact.
- Service plan: Ask how quickly they can see you if deficiencies are found within 7–14 days of delivery; get promises in writing.
- Documentation: Photograph defects and keep every email and repair order.
- Know your rights: Review the FTC warranty guide and Indiana AG complaint process before purchase.
- Research the brand: Search owner groups and YouTube for your exact model’s failure patterns; try creators like Liz Amazing’s RV buyer education.
Did this checklist help you avoid a pitfall at this location? Let other shoppers know what worked.
Contextualizing Complaints at This Exact Location
Patterns Appearing in Low-Star Google Reviews
After sorting Wana RV Center’s Google Business profile by “Lowest rating,” several recurring themes appear frequently in recent one- and two-star reviews:
- Post-sale responsiveness—calls or messages going unanswered for days when titles, plates, or repair updates were expected.
- PDI misses—units leaving the lot with notable defects (leaks, slide malfunctions, inoperative components) that surfaced in the first days of ownership.
- Paperwork timing—delays in titles and registration that disrupted planned trips.
- Service scheduling—limited near-term availability and extended time to obtain warranty authorizations or parts.
These are not isolated to one brand or one buyer. Review the latest entries yourself and weigh the severity against your risk tolerance: Wana RV Center Google reviews (sort by Lowest rating).
If You Proceed: Make the Dealership Earn Your Business
Set Non-Negotiables in Writing
To protect yourself:
- Submit a written purchase addendum requiring a clean PDI report, any noted repairs, and a satisfactory independent inspection as conditions of sale.
- Include a clause specifying the acceptable timeline for title/registration and a remedy if missed (e.g., rental reimbursement or the right to unwind).
- Require that any add-on products be elective with separate, signed disclosures.
Plan for Service Realities
Ask direct questions:
- How many service bays and technicians are on staff?
- What’s the average time from check-in to diagnosis for warranty concerns?
- What’s your process for coordinating with manufacturers and communicating ETAs?
- Can you help arrange a mobile tech for urgent repairs if the shop is backed up?
If you receive clear, written answers and the team follows through, great. If not, consider other dealers in the region.
Final Assessment
Wana RV Center in Shipshewana, IN operates in a highly competitive market. Some customers report smooth purchases and fair deals. However, when you focus on the most recent and most critical consumer feedback—especially the 1- and 2-star reviews—distinct risk areas emerge: PDI misses that lead to immediate defects, delayed paperwork that sidelines new owners, and service bottlenecks with communication gaps. These issues are consistent with broader national patterns, but they matter here because you’re trusting this specific location with a complex product and legally sensitive paperwork.
Ultimately, the safest path is to make your purchase contingent on an independent inspection, lock an itemized out-the-door price, document every promise, and plan for realistic service timelines. Verify all of this through the sources linked in this report and by reading the most recent low-star reviews on Google for this exact location. If you do not receive transparent, written assurances to your satisfaction, move on to another dealership.
Based on the concentration of serious complaints tied to PDI quality, paperwork delays, and service responsiveness at Wana RV Center—Shipshewana, IN, we cannot recommend this dealership without strong buyer safeguards. If the dealership will not agree to your inspection and documentation conditions, we recommend exploring other RV dealers in the region.
Have you purchased or serviced an RV at this location recently? Add your first-hand experience for other shoppers.
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