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Winnebago-Solis RV Exposed: Water Intrusion, Electrical Failures, Truma & Warranty Delays

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Winnebago-Solis

Location: 13200 Pioneer Trail, Suite 150, Eden Prairie, MN 55347

Contact Info:

• OwnerRelations@winnebagoind.com
• Main (641) 585-3535
• Service (641) 585-6936

Official Report ID: 1690

All content in this report was automatically aggregated and summarized by AI from verified online RV sources. Learn more

Introduction: What Shoppers Should Know About the Winnebago Solis

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. The Winnebago Solis, a Class B camper van built on the Ram ProMaster chassis, debuted as a budget-friendly, family-capable van with a distinctive pop-top option, flexible sleeping, and simplified systems. Its reputation is mixed: many owners love the layout, boondocking potential, and drivability; yet public complaints and forum discussions point to recurring quality-control issues, water intrusion, electrical gremlins, and slow warranty service that can derail camping plans for months.

Before diving into patterns of problems, connect with active owner communities to hear unfiltered experiences and solutions:

Independent consumer advocates are also shining a light on systemic RV issues. See Liz Amazing’s consumer-focused investigations and search her channel for “Solis” or your exact floor plan—she offers model vetting advice and checklists prospective buyers can use on any brand.

Do you own a Solis? Tell us what went right or wrong.

Non-Negotiable: Get a Third-Party RV Inspection Before You Sign

Arrange a third-party inspection before taking delivery. This is your only real leverage while the dealer still wants your signature and funding. After they have your money, many buyers report slipping to the back of the service line, with canceled trips and vans sitting at the dealer for weeks or months awaiting parts and approvals. Book an inspector via a local search: RV Inspectors near me. Ask for a written report, photos, and a water-intrusion test.

Model Overview and Reputation Snapshot

The Solis lineup (e.g., 59P and 59PX) targets buyers who want a compact, practical family van—often with a pop-top bed, rear Murphy bed, integrated wet bath, and simplified systems designed for off-grid camping. The 59PX typically includes an Onan generator; the 59P may rely more on alternator/solar. The platform’s promise is versatility at a lower price point than many lithium-equipped luxury vans. However, public owner feedback consistently highlights:

  • Water intrusion from the pop-top, roof penetrations, or rear doors.
  • Electrical system faults, battery/charging failures, and inconsistent solar performance.
  • Heating/hot water issues and winterization vulnerabilities.
  • Fit-and-finish problems and premature wear.
  • Long wait times for warranty repairs and parts.

For a broad scan of current complaints, start with Google: Winnebago Solis Problems and review multiple sources, not just one thread or video.

The Big Picture: What Public Complaints Consistently Report

  • Water leaks and dampness in the pop-top, roof fixtures, or rear doors—sometimes difficult to diagnose, leading to repeated dealer visits.
  • Electrical/charging failures, including house battery problems, underperforming solar, weak alternator charging, and blown fuses.
  • Truma Combi issues with ignition, error codes, and intermittent hot water/heat.
  • Generator noise/CO concerns on PX models with Onan generators; owners emphasize carbon monoxide safety vigilance.
  • Build quality problems—loose trim, misaligned cabinet doors, missing sealant, squeaks, and rattles.
  • Dealer delays and limited appointment availability for warranty work, causing trip cancellations and storage expenses.

To see unfiltered owner stories, scour video testimonials and long-term updates via YouTube search results for Winnebago Solis Problems and community forums like RVInsider. Also consider watching Liz Amazing’s RV industry exposes and searching her channel for “Solis.”

Water Intrusion and Pop-Top/Cab Sealing

Pop-Top Canvas and Roof Penetrations

Serious Concern

Owners of pop-top Solis variants frequently report water ingress during heavy rain or while driving, citing issues around the canvas, pop-top seals, and roof-rack/roof-port penetrations. Damp bedding, drips inside the cabin, and water pooling near the rear corners appear in videos and forum threads. Re-sealing attempts can be trial-and-error, with some vans requiring repeated service visits before leaks are resolved.

Rear Door and Window Water Entry

Moderate Concern

In wet climates, some Solis owners report water tracking in from rear doors or around windows, particularly after pressure washing or wind-driven rain. Damp mats and minor staining may appear first; left unchecked, moisture can lead to odor and corrosion. Addressing door alignment, seals, and weep holes is common homeowner maintenance, but new RVs should not arrive with obvious gaps or missing sealant.

If you’ve experienced leaks—where, when, and how did a dealer respond? Share your Solis leak story.

Electrical and Energy System Headaches

House Batteries, Charging, and Solar

Serious Concern

Reports include failing or underperforming house batteries, alternator charging inconsistencies, solar arrays that do not deliver expected output, and parasitic draws. Owners describe dead batteries after short storage periods and voltage drop-offs under light loads. In some cases, wiring errors or poor connections are discovered during independent inspections—suggesting variable build quality.

Breaker/Fuse Incidents and Component Failures

Moderate Concern

Some owners report blown fuses, tripped breakers, and intermittent faults attributed to miswired accessories or component defects. Inconsistent ground connections, loose battery terminals, and poor cable routing are not unheard of in Class B vans across brands; the Solis is not an exception. These failures can cascade—knocking out fans, pumps, and even heating systems at inopportune times.

Heat, Hot Water, and Winterization (Truma Combi)

Truma Combi Ignition Errors and Reliability

Moderate Concern

Public posts describe Truma Combi heaters throwing error codes, failing to ignite, or delivering inconsistent hot water—especially after storage or when batteries are low. Resolution can be as simple as purging air from propane lines or as complex as replacing control boards or sensors. Parts wait times under warranty are a recurring pain point.

Cold-Weather Vulnerabilities

Serious Concern

Despite marketing suggesting three-season capability, the Solis may struggle in sub-freezing conditions without careful preparation. Owners report frozen water lines, cracked fittings, and damage after unexpected cold snaps. The pop-top adds fabric exposure and heat loss. Anyone planning shoulder-season camping should study winterization steps and consider upgrades like insulation, heat tape, and better sealing.

If your heater failed on a cold trip, how did you resolve it? Add your story for future shoppers.

Plumbing and Tank Issues

Water Leaks, Fittings, and Pump Performance

Moderate Concern

Consumer narratives mention leaks at PEX connections, crimps, or the water pump—often appearing within the first months of ownership. Minor drips can escalate into cabinet or floor damage. Keeping a dry-camp-friendly van actually dry hinges on meticulous QC at the factory and careful pre-delivery inspection by dealers—both areas where buyers report misses.

Tank Sensors and Wet Bath Realities

Moderate Concern

Inaccurate tank sensors are common across RVs and surface frequently in Solis threads. Wet bath practicality—drainage, ventilation, and material durability—also divides owners. Expect to reseal caulk lines and clean vent fans regularly; a thorough pre-purchase inspection should include running the shower, observing drain speed, and checking for water escaping the bath pan.

Generator, Ventilation, and CO Safety (PX Models)

Onan 2800 Noise, Vibration, and Starting

Moderate Concern

Owners of Solis 59PX models with the Onan 2800 often note noise and vibration—and occasional starting issues after periods of inactivity. Generator exhaust management demands vigilance to avoid carbon monoxide intrusion. Keep CO detectors fresh and test them frequently; consider an exhaust extension when stationary, and never run the generator with compromised seals or open cabin pathways near the tailpipe.

Fit-and-Finish, Hardware, and Workmanship

Loose Trim, Cabinet Alignment, and Rattles

Moderate Concern

Visible QC misses—crooked cabinet doors, missing or messy sealant, stripped screws, rattling panels—show up across owner reviews and 1-star ratings online. Many buyers end up tightening hardware, adding felt tape, or re-securing latches and drawer faces soon after delivery. While minor individually, the cumulative effect erodes confidence in the build and can mask more serious oversights like unsealed penetrations.

Did you discover workmanship issues on day one? Tell shoppers what to look for.

Chassis-Related Concerns (Ram ProMaster)

Factory Recalls and Service Bulletins

Serious Concern

The Solis rides on the Ram ProMaster, a platform with multiple model-year recalls historically (e.g., camera, airbag, or electrical campaigns). Recalls do not automatically mean your van is affected; they are VIN-specific. However, the frequency of chassis campaigns underscores the importance of checking the recall status before purchase and regularly thereafter.

Ride, Braking, and Alignment

Moderate Concern

Owners report alignment drift, uneven tire wear, and road noise—common for loaded vans. Many invest in suspension upgrades (e.g., rear sumo springs, upgraded shocks) to improve stability and mitigate rattles. These add-ons improve comfort but add cost to an already pricey vehicle.

Warranty, Service Delays, and Parts Availability

Long Waits and Scheduling Hurdles

Serious Concern

Consumer stories repeatedly highlight months-long waits for warranty appointments and parts—especially during peak season. Some dealers prioritize in-house buyers; others limit warranty slots for complex issues. Owners describe losing entire seasons to backlogs, and a few resort to paying independent shops to avoid delays—then struggle to get reimbursed.

To protect yourself, book an independent inspection before delivery: find RV inspectors near you. Make any dealer promises part of the purchase contract.

Overpromised Features vs. Real-World Use

Four-Season Aspirations vs. Three-Season Reality

Moderate Concern

Marketing highlights versatility and “off-grid” chops, but many owners discover that winter and shoulder-season camping requires additional insulation, careful battery management, and strict winterization discipline. The pop-top especially can be drafty and challenging in windy or cold conditions, which undercuts the “family-of-four” year-round capability.

Sleeping Capacity, Payload, and Storage

Moderate Concern

Printed brochures show generous sleeping capacity, but adults may find the pop-top bed tight and noisy in wind. Payload can disappear quickly with passengers, water, cargo, and accessories. Some buyers end up removing factory items or adding roof/garage storage solutions to make the van truly trip-ready.

Recalls and Safety Notices: Where to Verify

Always verify recall status before buying used or taking delivery new. Enter the VIN here: NHTSA Recalls: Winnebago Solis. Also search video and forum reports of recall work experiences: YouTube: Solis Recall. For multi-brand industry context, consumer advocates like Liz Amazing explain how to verify recalls and TSBs and what to ask a dealer to document.

Legal and Regulatory Warnings

  • Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act (U.S.): Requires clear warranty terms and good-faith repair attempts. If the manufacturer or dealer fails to repair defects within a reasonable number of attempts or time, owners may have remedies including reimbursement or legal action.
  • State Lemon Laws: Some states cover RV motorized portions (chassis/engine) and sometimes the coach; coverage varies by state and is time-limited. Document every repair order, date, and day out of service.
  • NHTSA: Vehicle safety issues should be reported to NHTSA. Multiple similar complaints can trigger investigations or recalls.
  • FTC: The Federal Trade Commission enforces truth-in-advertising and warranty disclosures; misleading claims about capability or coverage can be actionable.

If you’re facing repeated repair failures, consult an attorney experienced in RV lemon law and keep a meticulous paper trail. Also consider filing formal complaints (NHTSA for safety defects; BBB for business practices) to increase accountability: BBB: Winnebago Solis.

Product and Safety Impact Analysis

  • Water intrusion risks mold, electrical shorts, and depreciation. A leak unresolved for months can permanently reduce resale value.
  • Electrical and battery failures can strand families without heat, refrigeration, or lighting. Poor charging exacerbates winterization risks by starving heaters and pumps.
  • Heating/hot water faults escalate quickly in cold climates and can cause secondary damage (burst fittings) if winterization fails.
  • Generator/CO risks demand a rigorous safety mindset: test detectors, avoid idling in enclosed areas, and address exhaust routing or seals immediately if fumes are suspected.
  • Service delays translate into lost use, storage fees, rental car/hotel expenses, and missed nonrefundable campsite bookings—hidden costs rarely considered at purchase.

To understand industry-wide pitfalls and how to avoid them, search trusted advocate channels such as Liz Amazing and run your own deep dive on Solis complaint videos: YouTube: Solis Complaints. And please help others by adding your firsthand experience.

What Prospective Buyers Should Do Right Now

  • Hire a third-party inspector before signing: Use RV Inspectors near me. Require a water test, electrical load test, roof inspection, and pop-top/canvas examination.
  • Demand written promises: Any dealer assurances (e.g., “we’ll fix that after delivery”) should be in the contract, with deadlines and remedies.
  • Do your own wet test: Bring a hose. Soak the pop-top seams, roof lights, and rear doors. Check for dampness around corners, under bedding, and beneath the bath.
  • Stress-test systems: Run the Truma on both electric/propane as applicable, cycle the water pump, verify hot water duration, trip GFCIs, and observe voltage drop under load.
  • Evaluate generator and CO safety (PX): Start the generator from cold, monitor vibration and CO detector alarms. Inspect exhaust routing, seals, and gaskets.
  • Check recalls and TSBs: Run the VIN through NHTSA and ask for a dealer printout of completed and outstanding campaigns.
  • Budget for upgrades: Many owners invest in suspension tweaks, insulation, and battery improvements. Price these before purchase to avoid surprises.

Already own a Solis? What did you wish you’d inspected more thoroughly? Leave a tip for future buyers.

Balanced Notes and Incremental Improvements

To be fair, some owners report better QC on newer units and successful warranty resolutions. The Ram ProMaster platform has also evolved in recent years, which may improve drivability and certain electronics. Many Solis owners camp happily after addressing initial punch-list items. However, the weight of public complaints still points to variability in assembly and dealer-prep quality—meaning your experience may depend more on the specific unit and dealer than on the brochure or model year alone.

Use multiple research channels to minimize risk:

  • Scan video reviews and long-term updates: YouTube: Solis Long-Term Review
  • Read forum megathreads and sticky posts on owner communities (RVForums, RVForum.net, RVUSA).
  • Compare dealer ratings regionally and ask for service lead times in writing.

Where to Verify and Cross-Reference Complaints

For investigative context and consumer advocacy tactics, search Liz Amazing’s channel for your model to learn how to vet dealers, spot red flags, and negotiate repairs effectively.

Final Verdict

Based on publicly reported owner complaints, forum threads, video testimonials, and BBB records, the Winnebago Solis demonstrates meaningful value on paper but shows too many recurring patterns—water intrusion, electrical faults, Truma/thermal challenges, and significant warranty delays—to recommend without reservations. Unless a third-party inspection verifies a dry, defect-free unit with strong dealer support, we advise shoppers to consider alternative brands or models with stronger quality-control records and service networks.

What’s your verdict after real-world use? Add your voice for fellow shoppers.

Comments

Have you owned or shopped the Winnebago Solis? Your experience can help others avoid costly mistakes. Please include your model year, major issues (if any), repair timelines, and whether your dealer support met expectations.

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