Not all RVs are built the same, and some brands have a reputation for poor build quality, frequent repairs, and bad customer service. While individual experiences may vary, the brands below often receive the most complaints from RV owners.
1. Thor Motor Coach 🚫
Why It’s Considered One of the Worst:
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Poor build quality: Thin walls, cheap materials, and weak cabinets.
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Frequent warranty issues: Owners report slide-out malfunctions, plumbing leaks, and electrical failures.
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Terrible customer service: Many RVers say it’s nearly impossible to get warranty claims approved.
Common Complaints:
✔ Leaky roofs and windows
✔ Slide-out failure within the first year
✔ Poor fit and finish (loose trim, misaligned doors)
2. Forest River 🚫
Why It’s Considered One of the Worst:
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Rushed assembly line production leads to a lack of quality control.
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Poor insulation: Many models suffer from extreme temperature issues.
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Warranty headaches: The company is notorious for delaying or denying warranty repairs.
Common Complaints:
✔ Water leaks from the roof and slide-outs
✔ Appliances failing within the first year
✔ Electrical shorts and fuse box issues
💡 Some higher-end Forest River brands (like Rockwood) are better, but budget models like Salem and Wildwood often have serious problems.
3. Keystone 🚫
Why It’s Considered One of the Worst:
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Cheap construction: Many models have thin walls, weak floors, and loose wiring.
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Frame problems: Some owners report cracked frames after just a few years.
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Customer support is slow or unresponsive.
Common Complaints:
✔ Water damage within the first 2-3 years
✔ Poorly sealed seams causing roof leaks
✔ Underpowered AC systems
💡 Keystone Montana and Cougar have slightly better reviews, but lower-end models like Springdale and Hideout are often problematic.
4. Coachmen 🚫
Why It’s Considered One of the Worst:
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Cheap components: Many models use low-quality plumbing and electrical systems.
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Roof issues: Owners report frequent leaks, especially around the slide-outs.
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Warranty problems: Many dealers refuse to fix issues under warranty.
Common Complaints:
✔ Flimsy cabinetry and furniture
✔ Weak axles and poor suspension
✔ Frequent water heater and furnace failures
5. Jayco (Lower-End Models) 🚫
Why It’s Considered One of the Worst:
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Jayco was once a respected brand, but after being acquired by Thor, quality has dropped.
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Budget models (like Jay Flight) are poorly built.
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Thin walls and weak roofs lead to leaks and insulation problems.
Common Complaints:
✔ Water intrusion due to poor sealing
✔ Slide-out motor issues
✔ Cheap plywood flooring that softens over time
💡 High-end Jayco models like North Point and Pinnacle are better, but budget models should be avoided.
Which RV Brands Are More Reliable?
If you want a well-built RV with fewer problems, consider:
✔ Grand Design – Excellent quality and customer support
✔ Lance – Best for travel trailers with great durability
✔ Tiffin – One of the best for Class A motorhomes
✔ Airstream – Expensive, but holds value and lasts for decades
While you can get lucky with any RV brand, Thor, Forest River, Keystone, Coachmen, and lower-end Jayco models have the worst reputations for quality, durability, and customer service. If you’re buying an RV, consider paying more for a brand with better craftsmanship and long-term reliability—it will save you thousands in repairs down the road! 🚐🔥