RV dealership scams avoid: your out-the-door, PDI, and financing playbook

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report

RV purchases are high-dollar, high-emotion decisions that can be vulnerable to misrepresentation, high-pressure sales tactics, and hidden fees. The upside: informed shoppers can avoid most dealership pitfalls with the right playbook. This report explains the most common RV dealership scams to avoid, how they work, where they show up in the buying process, and precise steps to protect yourself. We’ll also cover recent regulatory developments, contract traps, and due-diligence strategies so you can secure an honest, out-the-door deal that matches what you were promised.

RV retailing sits at the intersection of automotive-like sales finance and home-like systems installation. That mix creates unique vulnerabilities—from “yo-yo” financing to junk add-ons, from incomplete pre-delivery inspections to “as-is” clauses that later collide with warranty claims. Use this guide as a checklist and negotiation framework, especially if you’re buying out of state or on a compressed timeline.

Unfiltered owner feedback: where to research before you shop

Before visiting any lot, spend an hour reading first-hand experiences. You’re looking for patterns: repeat complaints about fees, cancellations, delivery delays, and service after the sale. Start here:

Reddit r/rvs search: RV dealership scams avoid — scan threads for dealer behavior patterns, fee lists, and delivery stories.
Google search for RV brand Facebook groups — join a few owner-led groups for your target brand and model family to read uncensored buyer and warranty experiences.

Tip: When researching a specific dealership, look for consistency. A single bad review can be noise; a pattern of the same issue (e.g., “refused to return deposit” or “surprise PDI fee at signing”) is a red flag. Also compare seasons: behavior during peak season sales can differ from off-peak.

Have you run into questionable tactics already? Tell other shoppers what you saw.

Quick definitions: what counts as a “dealership scam” in RV retail

Not every unpleasant surprise is fraud. In this report, we flag practices that are deceptive, unfair, undisclosed, or exploit common knowledge gaps. These include:

Price bait-and-switch: Advertising one price, then claiming “that unit is sold” or “price excludes fees” and steering to a higher-cost unit.
Junk fees/add-ons: Mandatory “freight,” “PDI,” “nitrogen tires,” “etching,” or “market adjustment” charges not disclosed in the advertised price.
Yo-yo (spot) delivery: Letting you take the RV “subject to financing,” then calling later to raise the rate or require a larger down payment.
Payment packing: Rolling service contracts, paint protection, or GAP into the monthly payment without clear, line-item consent.
Nonrefundable deposits and shifting paperwork: Taking money before disclosing key terms, then refusing to refund when terms change.
“As-is” clauses and arbitration traps: Using boilerplate to limit remedies while implying coverage exists.
Trade-in misrepresentation: Lowballing your trade or mishandling lien payoffs, leaving you with “negative equity” surprises.

Many of these have lawful versions—if they’re disclosed clearly, consensual, and optional. The problem arises when they’re hidden or sprung at the last minute.

How these tactics appear at each stage of the RV buying process

1) Online listing and first contact: price games start early

Unrealistic teaser prices: A web price that excludes dealer-required add-ons. Later, you’ll be told “all campers pay freight and PDI” or “market adjustment” applies.
“That unit just sold” pivot: After you arrive, the listed stock “is gone,” but a similar one is available at a higher price or trim.
Undisclosed reconditioning: A used RV is advertised with “new tires/batteries,” but you’re billed for those as “reconditioning” on the buyers order.

Defense: Request a detailed, written out-the-door (OTD) quote before stepping on the lot. Require line items: unit price, any dealer-installed options, freight, PDI, doc fee, sales tax, registration, and total due. If the salesperson can’t provide an OTD with all fees, you should assume the advertised price is not real.

2) Test drive and walk-through: time pressure ramps up

Limited-time price pressure: “This show price ends today,” “another buyer is on the way,” or “this is the last one in the state.”
PDI promises without paperwork: “We’ll fix that before delivery” without a signed “We Owe” (Due Bill) listing each promised repair or add-on with dates.
Deposit-first, details-later: The store demands a deposit “to hold the price” before answering fee or financing questions.

Defense: No deposit until you have the OTD quote and refundable deposit policy in writing. If you do place a hold, use a credit card, not cash or debit, and cap the amount. Require a signed Due Bill for any fixes or add-ons the dealer promises.

3) F&I (finance and insurance): where many dollars are lost

Payment packing: You’re asked, “Is $X a month comfortable?” without seeing that the number includes products you didn’t request.
Rate markup: The dealer bumps the rate above the lender’s buy rate and pockets the difference.
Yo-yo financing: You sign and drive pending lender approval. Days later, you’re told the deal “didn’t fund” unless you accept worse terms.
“Required” add-ons: Extended service contracts, fabric/paint protection, GAP, and tire/wheel sold as mandatory for loan approval.

Defense: Walk into F&I with a credit union pre-approval. Insist on seeing the buy rate options. Demand a menu with each add-on as a separate line, price, and signature box. Decline what you don’t want. Do not take delivery until your actual financing is approved and funded.

4) Signing and delivery: document traps and missing QC

Arbitration clauses: Boilerplate requires binding arbitration and waives class actions; some agreements also limit consequential damages.
“As-is” vs. warranty: Language can obscure whether the dealer stands behind issues found at delivery. Manufacturer warranties typically cover defects, not dealer-installed items or setup problems.
Incomplete PDI: Major systems aren’t demonstrated under load (water, shore power, propane). Later, you discover leaks or electrical faults.

Defense: Take as long as needed for a full demonstration. Run water, fill tanks, operate slides, test GFCIs and all appliances, cycle the furnace and A/C, verify all VINs match the contract, and document everything with photos. If issues arise, put them on a signed Due Bill with deadlines before you sign acceptance.

Seen these stages play out at your local lot? Add your story to help others.

25 RV dealership scams and tactics to avoid (with counter-moves)

Bait-and-switch pricing: The advertised price quietly omits non-optional fees. Counter-move: demand a signed OTD quote; if the OTD changes at signing, walk.
Freight and PDI double-charge: Dealers add “freight” and “pre-delivery inspection” as separate fees without disclosing up front. Counter-move: treat freight/PDI like part of the price—negotiate them down or refuse if they weren’t in your OTD.
“Market adjustment” addendum: A sticker over MSRP adding thousands. Counter-move: shop multiple dealers via email; tell them “no market adjustments” and select the lowest OTD.
Nitrogen tires/VIN etching/GPS fees: Often pre-installed and claimed mandatory. Counter-move: refuse and require removal or discount equal to the product cost; otherwise, walk.
Processing/doc fees escalation: Doc fees vary by state and dealer. Counter-move: you may not eliminate them, but you can offset by reducing the unit price dollar-for-dollar.
Required add-ons for financing: Claims that lender requires GAP or service contract. Counter-move: call your lender; most don’t require these for RVs.
Yo-yo (spot) delivery: Take possession before financing finalizes. Counter-move: decline delivery until the loan is fully approved and funded; if you must, get a written promise that the rate and terms are final or you can unwind without penalty.
Payment packing: Monthly payment includes undisclosed products. Counter-move: negotiate total price first; then review an itemized F&I menu and sign only next to accepted products.
Nonrefundable deposit drift: Once they have your money, terms shift. Counter-move: use a credit card; require a written, unconditional refund policy tied to specific deliverables (price, VIN, build, and delivery date).
Lowball trade-in and payoff errors: Trade is undervalued or lien payoff mishandled, creating surprise negative equity. Counter-move: bring two written trade offers and your exact payoff letter; verify payoff sent promptly.
As-is slips into warranty sale: The sales pitch implies coverage, but contracts disclaim dealer responsibility. Counter-move: insist on written coverage for dealer-installed items and pre-delivery defects.
Arbitration and venue traps: Clauses restrict your remedies or force distant venues. Counter-move: request removal or weigh if that’s a deal-breaker; photograph every page you sign.
Show pricing switcheroo: RV shows sometimes advertise “show-only” deals that reappear weekly. Counter-move: treat shows as research; buy after you’ve vetted OTDs from multiple stores.
Title and tag delays: Extended delays can create legal headaches for insurance and travel. Counter-move: get a title timeline in writing; do not release final payment until title processing is confirmed.
“Factory authorized sale” theater: Manufacturer reps and banners suggest rare discounts. Counter-move: compare OTD across the region; the real leverage is competition.
PDI performed after delivery: “We’ll schedule PDI later.” Counter-move: no sale without a completed, documented PDI and a full systems demo.
Undisclosed rentals or prior damage: A “new” unit may have been used as a demo/loaner; used units may hide water intrusion. Counter-move: inspect with a moisture meter and look for soft floors, fresh caulk, mismatched panels.
“We Owe” verbal promises: Sales says “we’ll throw that in” without paperwork. Counter-move: every promise on a signed Due Bill with dates.
Service lane slow-walk after the sale: Post-sale access is limited; your warranty work sits. Counter-move: ask for the service queue time in writing before purchase; prefer dealers with mobile tech partners.
Mis-stated credit application: Inflated income to score an approval you can’t sustain. Counter-move: review the application before submission; never sign blank forms.
Insurance steer with kickbacks: Pushing specific insurers or policies. Counter-move: shop independently; verify coverage includes full-timer or campsite liability if needed.
Out-of-state tax confusion: Miscollected tax leads to later bills. Counter-move: verify tax rules for your home state; request the dealer’s written tax calculation and remittance method.
Floorplan “hold-harmless” pressures: Claims they must close today due to lender deadlines. Counter-move: your timeframe matters; walk away from high-pressure deadlines.
“This is included” ambiguity: Second batteries, weight distribution hitches, propane fills—then charged separately on the buyers order. Counter-move: list every included item on the OTD and Due Bill.

Recent context: financing stress, quality variability, and regulatory movement

RV affordability tightened in recent years as financing costs rose and many buyers carried negative equity from trade-ins bought during the pandemic peak. That combination increases the pressure to extend loan terms, accept higher rates, or roll add-ons into payments—conditions that can mask the true cost of the deal. Meanwhile, reported quality and warranty service backlogs vary widely by brand and dealer, making thorough pre-delivery inspection and clear service commitments more important than ever.

Regulatory note: The FTC has pursued rules aimed at curbing deceptive auto retail practices. Proposals have focused on clear price disclosures, banning certain junk fees, and requiring express consent for add-ons. If finalized and enforced, portions of such rules may apply to RV dealers—especially those selling motorized RVs—with the goal of making advertised prices and add-ons more transparent. Regardless of formal rule timing, the best consumer defense today is to operate as if these standards already apply: insist on plain-language, line-item disclosures for every product, price, and fee.

Due diligence before you visit: a step-by-step plan

1) Define your target and your walk-away

Know the exact model, floorplan, and must-have options.
Set a firm budget based on the total out-the-door amount, not monthly payment.
Identify three alternative units you’d accept if your first choice isn’t available.

2) Get multiple written OTD quotes

Email 3–5 dealers within driving distance and 3–5 out-of-state. Use a concise template:

Ask for a signed OTD buyers order that includes: unit price, freight, PDI, doc fee, dealer-installed items, tax, title, registration, and total due at delivery.
Request VIN or stock number and build sheet.
State “No addendums, market adjustments, or mandatory add-ons. If any are required, list them and their prices here.”
Require a timeframe the quote is valid.

3) Vet the dealership’s service capacity

Ask for the current lead time for warranty work for their buyers and for buyers who purchased elsewhere.
Request written confirmation that they service what they sell for at least one year.
Ask whether they partner with mobile technicians for faster fixes.

4) Get pre-approved financing

Obtain a pre-approval from a credit union or bank so you know your true rate and terms.
Bring the approval letter. You can still let the dealer try to beat it, but you’ll have a benchmark.
To limit hard inquiries, tell the dealer not to shotgun your credit without your written authorization and a list of specific lenders.

5) Clarify deposit policy in writing

Only place a deposit after you receive a signed OTD.
Use a credit card (for potential chargeback rights), and cap it at a modest amount.
Get the refundable terms in writing. Tie the refund to specific conditions: if terms, fees, or delivery date change, you can cancel with a full refund.

6) Consider a third-party inspection

For used units—or new units with long transit/lot time—hire an independent inspector. Search: RV Inspectors near me.
Have the inspector’s checklist become part of your delivery Due Bill.

Have you spotted other smart pre-visit checks? Share your tip for fellow buyers.

Financing traps and how to beat them

Avoid yo-yo delivery

Never drive off unless the loan is fully approved and funded. If the dealer insists on “spot delivery,” require a signed document stating the deal is final at the disclosed rate and terms, or you can unwind the sale and return the unit without fees. Bring your pre-approval so you can refuse deteriorating terms later.

Force line-item transparency

Ask to see the lender’s “buy rate” and any dealer markup in writing.
Demand a product menu. Each add-on (service contract, GAP, tire/wheel, paint, theft, maintenance) must have its own price and signature acceptance box.
Refuse package-only options. You have a right to choose none.

Match products to your use

Full-timer? Many extended service plans exclude full-time use unless a special rider is purchased. Verify before buying.
GAP on large down payments: Often unnecessary. If you put 20% down and depreciation is predictable, GAP might not pencil out.
Service contract networks: Ask which service centers will honor the plan and whether mobile techs are covered.

Guard your credit

Limit hard pulls: Authorize inquiries only to named lenders.
Consider a temporary credit freeze lifted only for your chosen lender window.
Get a copy of any credit application you sign; never sign a blank or partially completed form.

What financing tactic surprised you most? Report it to help others prepare.

Delivery day: a professional-grade PDI and acceptance process

Come equipped and unhurried

Bring: flashlight, GFCI tester, infrared thermometer, tire pressure gauge, moisture meter, ladder (or request roof access with staff), phone for photos/video, and your checklist.
Plan 2–4 hours minimum; daylight is best. Do not accept “we’re closing soon” as a reason to rush.

Run a full systems test

Water: Fill fresh tank, pressurize system, run every faucet and shower, flush toilets, inspect for leaks at fittings and under sinks. Check water heater on electric and propane.
Electrical: Connect to shore power; verify converter/charger output; test every outlet (GFCI trip and reset), lights, slides, leveling jacks, and battery charging.
HVAC: Run furnace and A/C to setpoint; listen for unusual cycling.
Propane: Leak test at appliances; confirm detector operation.
Appliances: Stove/oven, microwave, fridge (on AC and LP if dual), water pump.
Exterior: Roof membrane, seals, ladder, awnings, slide toppers, storage doors, keys for every lock.
Chassis (motorized): VIN, odometer, warning lights, fluids, tire date codes and pressures, brake operation, road test.

Document and secure obligations

Every defect goes on a signed Due Bill with completion dates.
Photograph defects and the signed Due Bill.
Verify manuals, remotes, spare fuses, wrenches, sewer cap, crank handles, and any promised accessories are present.

Paperwork you should read—carefully

Buyers order: Must match your OTD quote line-by-line. Any new fee? Stop.
Retail Installment Sales Contract (if financing): Confirm APR, term, product add-ons, and whether prepayment penalties exist.
Arbitration clause: Decide if you accept; photograph pages.
Warranty registration: Ensure the dealer properly registers the unit; request proof or confirmation email.
Temporary tags/title: Confirm timeline and responsible party for tax/title remittance.

Fee reality check: legitimate vs. junk

Some fees are common and sometimes regulated; others are simply extra profit. Your best protection is to treat every line item as negotiable unless state law clearly sets it.

Often legitimate (varies by state): State title/registration fees, sales/use tax, smog/safety for motorized units, a modest documentation fee.
Commonly negotiable or junk: Freight, PDI, market adjustment, nitrogen tires, VIN etch, theft recovery, GPS or “starter interrupt,” paint/fabric protection, “customer care package,” reconditioning on new units.

Strategy: Tell the salesperson early you only negotiate OTD. If a fee appears at signing that wasn’t in the OTD, either remove it or reduce the unit price by the same amount.

Trade-ins: protect your equity and payoff

Get two outside offers (consignment, national buyers, or local RV resellers) before visiting the dealer.
Bring your lien payoff letter; call the lienholder from the F&I office to confirm the exact payoff and remittance address.
Require written proof when the dealer sends the payoff; follow up until your old loan shows paid.
Do not roll negative equity casually; it increases default risk and can trap you if you need to sell later.

Templates you can copy and use

OTD quote request email

Subject: Out-the-door quote request for [Year Make Model, VIN/Stock]

Hello [Name], Please send a signed out-the-door buyers order for the unit below. Include every line item: unit price, freight, PDI, dealer-installed items, doc fee, tax, title, registration, and total amount due at delivery. Also attach the build sheet and confirm the VIN. I do not accept market adjustments or mandatory add-ons. If any optional products are available, list them as optional with prices.

Quote valid through: [date]. If the OTD changes at signing, I will not proceed.

Thank you, [Your Name]

Refundable deposit terms

“This deposit is fully refundable if the dealership changes the OTD price, cannot deliver the unit and VIN listed by [date], or if any undisclosed fees or mandatory add-ons are introduced at signing.”

If you feel scammed: damage control and escalation

Pause delivery or acceptance: If terms changed, do not sign. Demand correction or walk.
Document everything: Save texts/emails/screenshots of the ad, quote, and agreements; photograph paperwork.
Dispute deposits: If a promised refund is denied, contact your credit card issuer with your written deposit terms.
File complaints: State Attorney General or consumer protection office; state DMV/dealer licensing; and applicable consumer finance regulators for lending-related issues.
Manufacturer support: For warranty matters, open a case with the manufacturer immediately; request goodwill or parts authorization in writing.
Small claims or counsel: If amounts are modest and facts are clear, small claims court can be efficient—unless arbitration clauses block court; assess with an attorney if needed.
Organize facts for leverage: A timeline of what was promised versus delivered, with dollar amounts and supporting documents, often produces faster resolutions.

Already navigated a dispute successfully? Post your playbook to help the next buyer.

Myths vs. reality in RV dealership deals

Myth: Freight and PDI are non-negotiable industry standards. Reality: They are dealer choices and can be negotiated or folded into price.
Myth: You must take delivery today to keep the price. Reality: Legitimate quotes include an expiration; urgency pressure often masks hidden fees.
Myth: Extended warranties cover “everything.” Reality: Service contracts have exclusions and maintenance requirements; read carefully.
Myth: The dealer must handle your financing. Reality: Outside pre-approval gives you leverage and protection against yo-yo financing.
Myth: Arbitration helps you. Reality: It limits court access. Decide knowingly, not by default.

Red flags: when to walk immediately

Refusal to provide a written, line-item OTD before your visit.
Deposit required before any numbers are disclosed.
New fees appear at signing that weren’t on the OTD—and they won’t remove or offset them.
Dealer says financing “requires” optional products.
They won’t provide a copy of every document for your review before you sign.
They rush the PDI or refuse to water-test and run appliances.
They won’t put promises on a signed Due Bill with dates.

What has improved—and what hasn’t

Improved transparency in some stores: A growing number of dealers advertise true OTD prices and publish fee schedules online. These dealers still exist—vote with your business.
Better owner communities: It’s easier than ever to validate claims via owner groups and forums. Use them to benchmark what’s normal.
Still uneven PDI and service: Many buyers report that thorough PDIs depend more on the dealership’s culture than the brand. Prioritize stores with a documented PDI process and realistic service SLAs.
Financing vigilance remains essential: Rate markups and add-on bundling are persistent profit centers. Your pre-approval is your shield.

Your research toolkit: verify and cross-check

Use these resources to validate dealership behavior and buyer reports related to “RV dealership scams avoid” and similar queries. Read broadly, compare stories, and look for repeat patterns:

60-minute F&I defense checklist

Bring your pre-approval letter and ID.
State: “We are negotiating total OTD only.”
Refuse all add-ons until you see an itemized menu.
Circle and initial the “none” option for each add-on you decline.
Ask: “What is the lender’s buy rate? What is your offered rate?”
Confirm: no prepayment penalty; simple interest loan.
Photograph each signed page and the final buyers order before leaving.
Do not drive off until the loan is fully approved and funded.

Show-time strategy: if you’re shopping an RV show

Use the show to compare floorplans and construction details, not to sign.
Collect written OTD quotes, then go home and verify with the dealership’s sales manager by email.
Ask whether the show unit is the one you’d receive; if not, demand VIN-specific quotes later.
Be skeptical of “today-only” claims; authentic deals withstand 24–48 hours of verification.

Out-of-state buying: extra guardrails

Get the VIN-specific OTD quote with tax/title path described (who collects, who remits, and when).
Confirm any state inspection or emissions requirements for motorized units.
Clarify warranty service access near your home; ask your local dealer if they service out-of-state buyers.
Use an independent inspection near the selling dealer before traveling.
Do not wire final payment until all conditions are satisfied and documented.

Final word: set the rules, stick to the process

Most RV dealers will do right by an informed buyer who insists on clarity. Put your non-negotiables up front: a line-item OTD in writing, a real PDI, no surprise add-ons, and financing that matches your pre-approval or better—with products you actually want. If a store resists those basics, it has told you how the rest of the relationship will go. Thank them for their time and move on.

Which of these steps helped you most—or what would you add from your own experience? Contribute your best advice.

Comments: real-world experiences from RV shoppers

What patterns have you seen with RV dealership fees, financing, deposits, or delivery? Your firsthand story can help another buyer avoid a costly mistake. Please keep it factual and specific to the process, not personal attacks. We moderate for civility and clarity.