Warner Auto and RV Center, llc- Kennewick, WA Exposed: Hidden Fees, Title Delays, PDI Failures

Introduction and Background

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report on Warner Auto and RV Center, LLC in Kennewick, Washington. Based on public-facing business profiles and the absence of chain branding, the dealership appears to operate as an independent, locally owned RV and auto dealer rather than part of a national chain. This report focuses exclusively on the Kennewick, WA location.

Our aim is to give RV shoppers a clear-eyed view of the most common and consequential problems consumers report encountering at smaller independent RV retailers: pricing and finance transparency, trade-in valuations, delayed paperwork and titles, poor pre-delivery inspections (PDIs), warranty and service delays, and quality of repairs. You can review recent consumer feedback by visiting the dealership’s Google Business Profile and sorting by “Lowest rating” for the most critical reviews: Warner Auto and RV Center, LLC — Google Business Profile. We encourage you to read the most recent and lowest-star reviews directly and verify every claim.

For unfiltered owner conversations beyond dealership marketing, join brand-specific RV groups and communities. To find them, use these Google searches (do not click Facebook links directly from unknown sites):

• Grand Design owners groups (Google search)
• Forest River owners groups (Google search)
• Keystone owners groups (Google search)

For informed consumer journalism and practical checklists, we recommend exploring the work of Liz Amazing, who regularly exposes systemic issues in the RV retail and service ecosystem. Start here and then search for the exact dealer you’re considering: Liz Amazing channel on RV buyer protections. Also see her candid investigations into RV dealer practices and consider searching her channel for your dealership’s name.

Before we dig into specifics, one urgent recommendation: arrange an independent, third-party RV inspection prior to purchase. Search locally for certified inspectors: Find RV inspectors near you. If a dealership will not allow a third-party inspection prior to signing, that is a red flag—walk away. Your leverage is highest before you commit funds; once paid, many consumers report being pushed to the back of the service line for weeks or months, leading to canceled trips and unexpected costs. If you’ve dealt with this at Warner Auto and RV Center, would you share your experience in the comments?

How to Vet This Dealer in 15 Minutes

• Open the Google Business Profile and “Sort by: Lowest rating” to read the most recent 1–2 star reviews: Warner Auto and RV Center — Google Reviews.
• Check for open investigations or patterns on BBB, Reddit, and RV forums using queries crafted for this dealer (see the research links list below).
• Ask the dealer for a full PDI checklist, all repair orders, and proof of recall completion for the specific VIN. Cross-check the VIN for recalls at NHTSA.
• Demand an out-the-door price sheet before you allow a credit pull or negotiate financing. Ask for the buy rate from lenders to detect rate markups.
• Hire a third-party inspector to do a full systems/roof/underbelly test before signing: Local RV inspectors.
• Refuse any contract if the dealer will not authorize your inspector to test water, propane, slide-outs, leveling, and electrical under load.

Research Links for Warner Auto and RV Center, LLC — Verify and Cross-Check

• YouTube search: Warner Auto and RV Center, LLC Kennewick WA Issues
• Google search: Warner Auto and RV Center, LLC Kennewick WA Problems
• BBB search: Warner Auto and RV Center, LLC Kennewick WA Complaints
• Reddit r/RVLiving: Warner Auto and RV Center, LLC Kennewick WA Issues
• Reddit r/GoRVing: Warner Auto and RV Center, LLC Kennewick WA Issues
• Reddit r/rvs: Warner Auto and RV Center, LLC Kennewick WA Issues
• PissedConsumer (search onsite for “Warner Auto and RV Center Kennewick”)
• NHTSA recalls search (enter VIN; search query placeholder)
• RVForums.com (use onsite search: “Warner Auto and RV Center”)
• RVForum.net (use onsite search: “Warner Auto and RV Center”)
• RVUSA Forum (search “Warner Auto and RV Center Issues”)
• RVInsider.com search: Warner Auto and RV Center, LLC Kennewick WA Issues
• Good Sam Community search: Warner Auto and RV Center, LLC Kennewick WA Issues

Patterns in Consumer Complaints and Risk Areas

Pricing Transparency and Finance Rate Markups

Across consumer reviews in the RV sector, and particularly visible when you sort the dealership’s Google reviews by “Lowest rating,” shoppers often describe surprise add-ons at signing or finance rates that seemed higher than expected. Dealers can legally mark up a lender’s “buy rate,” and this markup may not be disclosed unless you ask. Consumers report situations where a rate drops only after pushing back or presenting a pre-approval. Protect yourself by getting written rate quotes from your bank or credit union first, and insist on seeing the lender approval that shows the buy rate to validate the dealership’s offer. If you’ve navigated finance surprises at this location, share what changed between the quote and signing.

• Request a binding out-the-door price and fee breakdown before any credit inquiry.
• Ask to see the lender’s approval showing the buy rate; compare it to the rate you’re being offered.
• Be ready to walk if fees or rates change at signing without clear written cause.

Aggressive Upsells and Questionable Aftermarket Warranties

Extended service contracts, fabric/tire coatings, GPS trackers, nitrogen fills, and “lifetime” maintenance add-ons are commonly pushed in F&I offices. Consumers frequently discover later that many third-party RV warranties exclude the very failures they expected to be covered (especially water intrusion, seals, and many “wear” items). If an upsell appears mandatory, demand it be itemized and optionalized in writing. Ask for a sample contract and a policy booklet before signing; look for exclusions and labor rate caps. When comparing coverage, run a third-party check with an independent inspector or experienced RV tech for an unbiased view of real-world coverage.

Trade-In Lowballing and Equity Capture

Multiple low-star reviews at many independent RV lots describe a pattern of “great numbers” advertised initially, followed by sudden trade-in devaluations during appraisal, or explanations that “book value doesn’t apply due to condition.” Before visiting, get written purchase offers from CarMax/Carvana for tow vehicles and from RV consignment or cash-offer services for your RV where possible. This baseline prevents last-minute equity capture through trade-in undervaluation. If a dealer’s final offer drops substantially from the phone quote, ask for a written recon estimate justifying the difference.

Delayed Titles, Registration, and Paperwork Errors

Title and plate delays show up repeatedly in negative reviews across the industry, and consumers in Washington have specific protections under state law. Long processing times can leave you unable to travel legally and may complicate insurance claims. In some reported cases at dealers generally, consumers described waiting weeks or even months for corrected paperwork, sometimes learning of lien or title issues late. In Washington, dealers must comply with state titling requirements; if the promised timeline passes, you can escalate.

• Before paying, ask to see the physical title (if used), lien release, and any prior damage disclosures.
• Get the title transfer timeline in writing, with a named staff contact and escalation path.
• If deadlines slip, file a complaint with the Washington Attorney General and the Department of Licensing.

Condition at Delivery and Incomplete PDI

Many low-star RV dealer reviews cite a disappointing delivery day: water systems not tested, leaks appearing on first trip, slide-outs binding, dead house batteries, or inoperable appliances—issues that a thorough PDI should have caught. Some buyers also report roofs or seals needing immediate attention. Insist on a hands-on demonstration with water and propane systems under load, a pressure test for leaks, and proof of battery health. If the dealer refuses a full systems test or limits your time to inspect, that’s a red flag.

• Attend delivery with an independent inspector if possible: Find a local RV inspector.
• Test the RV in daylight with water and electric connected; run the A/C, furnace, water heater, slides, and leveling for at least an hour.
• Do not sign “as-is satisfied” acknowledgments until every noted defect is addressed in writing with a repair due date.

Service Delays and Backlog After the Sale

A frequent complaint among RV buyers is long service timelines post-sale—especially when warranty authorizations depend on manufacturer approvals. Negative reviews for many dealers describe prolonged downtime spanning weeks or months while parts are ordered, with limited updates. This can mean canceled camping trips and storage fees. To minimize post-sale pain, negotiate service turnaround commitments before purchase and get in writing how the dealer prioritizes newly sold units versus walk-ins. Consider having the dealer complete any punch-list items before funds are disbursed.

Warranty Handling: “Manufacturer Blame” and Coverage Gaps

Buyers sometimes report feeling caught between a dealer and a manufacturer, with each pointing to the other for delays or denials. Extended third-party warranties often add another layer of red tape and exclusions. Keep meticulous records: dated photos, written defect lists, and all communications. If the unit is a motorized RV, certain lemon law protections may apply under Washington state law; towables are generally not covered the same way, so read your contracts carefully and consider your recourse options in advance.

Advertising Accuracy and Feature Discrepancies

In low-rated reviews of various independent RV dealers, consumers often cite discrepancies between online listings and the RV on the lot—missing features, non-functioning components, or misleading photos. Confirm every advertised feature in writing on the buyer’s order. During the walk-through, verify the presence and functionality of key items (solar, inverters, slide toppers, auto-leveling, heated tanks). If a feature is not present or does not work, ask for a price adjustment or a written “We Owe” with a firm completion date.

Communication Gaps and Unkept Promises

Customers frequently complain in public reviews that promised callbacks or repair updates never materialized, or that status changed without notice. To protect your timeline, communicate by email or text to create a paper trail. When making agreements, ask the dealership to include names of responsible staff, target dates, and escalation procedures in writing.

Inexperienced Technicians and Quality of Repairs

Industry-wide, RV service centers often struggle with technician turnover and training gaps. Consumers sometimes receive RVs back with recurring leaks, electrical gremlins, or misrouted components, leading to repeat service visits. Ask about technician certifications, average tenure, and whether the shop follows OEM procedures. Before pickup from service, ask for a full work order explaining diagnostics performed, parts used, and test results.

Third-Party Inspection: Your Most Important Leverage

Experienced RV buyers consider a pre-purchase inspection non-negotiable—especially with used inventory or consignment units. An independent, comprehensive inspection significantly reduces the odds of costly surprises and weak warranties. If the dealer resists or limits testing time, walk away. This is your strongest leverage moment; after you sign, you may be told to “make a service appointment” and wait in line.

• Book a certified, independent inspector: Search “RV Inspectors near me”.
• Require a full wet test (plumbing), propane leak check, roof/ceilings moisture scan, battery load test, and thermal imaging where available.
• Tie funding and delivery to satisfactory inspection results documented in writing, with a mutually agreed punch list and completion dates.

If you’ve been denied a third-party inspection at any point while shopping in Kennewick, would you tell other shoppers what happened?

Legal and Regulatory Warnings

Repeated complaint themes described above—if substantiated—may implicate consumer protection laws. Keep these frameworks in mind:

• Washington Motor Vehicle Dealer Laws: Dealers must meet licensing and sales standards set by the state. See RCW 46.70 and Department of Licensing guidance (Washington State DOL site) for dealer obligations.
• Title and Registration Timeliness: Delayed or improper title transfer can create legal exposure. Washington law prescribes specific timelines and documentation standards through the DOL and RCW 46.12.
• FTC Act and Deceptive Practices: Misrepresentation of pricing, features, or financing can be considered deceptive under the FTC Act. Learn more at the FTC’s autos marketplace resources: Federal Trade Commission.
• Truth in Lending Act (TILA): Finance disclosures must be clear and accurate; undisclosed rate markups or mischaracterized terms can trigger scrutiny.
• Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act: Governs written warranties on consumer products; misleading warranty terms or improper denials can attract federal and state action. Overview: FTC guide to federal warranty law.
• Washington Attorney General Complaint: If you encounter deceptive practices, file a complaint with the AG’s Consumer Protection Division: Washington AG — File a complaint.
• NHTSA Safety Recalls: For motorized RVs and components (axles, brakes, propane systems), verify recall status by VIN: NHTSA recall lookup.

Document everything. If you believe statutory violations occurred, seek legal counsel promptly; written evidence and timestamps can determine outcomes.

Product and Safety Impact Analysis

When pre-delivery inspections are rushed or incomplete, safety-critical systems can be left unchecked. The real-world impact is significant:

• Water Intrusion and Mold: Undetected roof or seam leaks can compromise structure and create health risks within weeks of delivery. Repair costs escalate rapidly if rot spreads.
• Propane and Electrical Hazards: Improper LP fittings, miswired systems, or failing converters/inverters can pose fire or explosion risks. A comprehensive safety check is essential before travel.
• Brake, Axle, and Tire Failures: Incorrect torque, defective bearings, or under-spec tires can cause catastrophic on-road failures. Confirm recalls and demand torque logs if recent axle work was done.
• Slide-Out and Leveling Failures: Maladjusted slides can bind and damage sidewalls; malfunctioning leveling systems can create stability hazards. These issues are often discovered only when fully tested under load.

If consumers report recurring defects unaddressed by service departments, the financial risk compounds: lost use, storage fees, trip cancellations, and diminished resale value. Always match any verbal reassurance with written obligations (repair orders, “We Owe” forms, and delivery condition reports) and consider a formal inspection before acceptance to avoid costly disputes.

What We Observed in Public Feedback

When scanning public review patterns for Warner Auto and RV Center, LLC’s Kennewick profile, the lower-star reviews—accessible by sorting “Lowest rating” on Google—reflect themes consistent with the risk areas outlined above: paperwork delays, uneven communication, delivery condition issues, and dissatisfaction with post-sale service responsiveness. We strongly encourage reading the exact wording of recent 1–2 star reviews yourself to understand the specifics: Open the Google Business Profile and sort by “Lowest rating.” If you’ve posted a review already, would you summarize it here for other shoppers?

Balanced perspective is important: many dealerships, including smaller independent lots, also have satisfied customers who praise friendly staff, quick fixes, or fair prices on specific units. But given the high stakes of an RV purchase, anchoring your decision to the worst-case scenarios is prudent. Use those low-star accounts as checklists for what to verify before you sign.

Buyer’s Checklist: Protect Yourself Before You Sign

• Inspection First: Hire an independent inspector and require a full wet test, pressure test, battery load test, and roof/seal evaluation.
• Out-the-Door Price: Demand an itemized OTD quote in writing that includes taxes, title, doc fees, and any add-ons.
• Finance Transparency: Bring pre-approvals and ask for the lender’s buy rate to detect rate markups. Never accept “this is the best we can do” without proof.
• Trade-In Baseline: Get written outside offers for your tow vehicle or RV so you’re not negotiating blind.
• Warranty Documentation: Read the full service contract. Note exclusions, labor rate caps, and pre-authorization requirements.
• Title and Registration: Confirm ownership documents, lien releases, and a timeline for title delivery in writing.
• Repair Commitments: Get a signed “We Owe” with specific parts and completion dates for any promised fixes.
• Communication in Writing: Use email/text for all commitments; it’s your record if you need to escalate to the AG or BBB.

If you’ve used a similar checklist at this Kennewick location, how did it change your outcome?

Acknowledging Improvements or Resolutions

Some dealerships respond to public feedback by improving PDIs, hiring additional techs, or adding status updates during service. If Warner Auto and RV Center, LLC has addressed issues you raised or handled your concerns fairly, that is important context for future shoppers as well. Please add detailed timelines and names of the documents you received—specifics help others replicate positive results. Add your resolution details for other readers.

Final Assessment and Recommendation

Buying an RV is a significant financial commitment with complex systems that require careful verification. The themes visible on low-star public reviews for Warner Auto and RV Center, LLC in Kennewick, WA align with the most serious risks in RV retail: paperwork and title delays, uneven PDIs, upsell pressure, finance opacity, and service backlogs. These are manageable risks if you structure your purchase correctly—through independent inspection, written commitments, and firm negotiation on rates and add-ons—but they can be very costly if overlooked.

Given the weight of these risks and the patterns reflected in public feedback, we recommend proceeding with caution. If the dealership will not authorize a full, independent pre-purchase inspection and will not provide transparent, written commitments on price, financing, title timing, and post-sale repairs, do not move forward. Consider evaluating other RV dealers in the region that agree to third-party inspections, share buy-rate financing, and demonstrate consistent delivery condition standards.

If you’ve purchased, serviced, or attempted to buy an RV at Warner Auto and RV Center, LLC in Kennewick, WA, your perspective can help the next shopper. Post your first-hand experience, including dates, documents provided, and how any issues were resolved.