Freightliner Corrosion Warranty (or lack thereof)
We have had our 2014 Providence on a Freightliner Chassis for right on a year. Recently we noticed the paint was bubbling up and peeling on the steel framework that supports the various apparatus surrounding the engine at the rear of the coach. This peeling/bubbling is only occurring well above the chassis frame. The chassis itself along with other metal structures closest to the road are in perfect shape. It appears as though this particular section of metal was not properly prepared before it was painted and as a result paint was applied right over existing rust. The continued rusting of the metal under the paint is causing the paint to bubble and peel off.
We asked Freightliner to repaint the affected areas under warranty, but have been informed that their corrosion warranty only lasts 6 months. They had no interest in discussing it any further.
This apparently gives Freightliner the ability to cut corners and not have to properly prepare all of their metal framework prior to painting! Since they clearly take advantage of this ability their customers are left with the misfortune of having to pay to have their new coaches tore down, sandblasted, repainted, and reassembled at considerable additional expense.
I post this only to inform those who are considering a new (or even used) coach on a Freightliner chassis.
This is a very unfortunate situation as I have nothing but praise for Fleetwood's warranty support and their Factory Service Center in Decatur, Indiana. Each and every concern we had with the coach was taken care of without question and done carefully and properly by their techs. In addition, I have nothing but praise for their techs' professionalism and skills. And their patience with a customer who insists on knowing everything that is being done and why (and one who also may give instruction on how to properly do it!).
Shame on you, Freightliner.
We asked Freightliner to repaint the affected areas under warranty, but have been informed that their corrosion warranty only lasts 6 months. They had no interest in discussing it any further.
This apparently gives Freightliner the ability to cut corners and not have to properly prepare all of their metal framework prior to painting! Since they clearly take advantage of this ability their customers are left with the misfortune of having to pay to have their new coaches tore down, sandblasted, repainted, and reassembled at considerable additional expense.
I post this only to inform those who are considering a new (or even used) coach on a Freightliner chassis.
This is a very unfortunate situation as I have nothing but praise for Fleetwood's warranty support and their Factory Service Center in Decatur, Indiana. Each and every concern we had with the coach was taken care of without question and done carefully and properly by their techs. In addition, I have nothing but praise for their techs' professionalism and skills. And their patience with a customer who insists on knowing everything that is being done and why (and one who also may give instruction on how to properly do it!).
Shame on you, Freightliner.
