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SFVdave's avatar
SFVdave
Explorer
May 28, 2015

What to watch for when buying new from dealer

Looking thru the RV Trader at some discounted prices with a friend. He commented that if looks to good to be true, it is. He commented that they tack on prep fees, transportation fees and PDI fees which can mount to $1,000's and then try to get you to buy a extended warranty.
True? What to look for?

24 Replies

  • My experience with Mike Thompson RV Fountain Valley Sales was very good. I couldn't be more pleased. I started my RV search with trepidation, as I have spoken with many salespeople over the years who have absolutely no knowledge of RVs or RVing. I started dealing with Cher Lyckman, who has RVed, does RV, and was exceptionally knowledgeable regarding her products and many of the other brands on the road. Every promise made by the Mike Thompson store was fulfilled, there was no upselling, no pressure, just a good experience and I believe I received a fair deal. During the negotiations, which took months because we were not sure just what we wanted, they offered to bring a coach down from another store for inspection, a 2014. We were asked to put up a "$1,000 good faith refundable deposit". We did, after making sure numerous time it was refundable. We did not purchase that MH, and our deposit was instantly refunded...actually the check was returned uncashed. We did then purchase a 2015 with a floor plan which matched our requirements. I am a happy camper and I will continue to recommend Mike Thompson RV to my friends. JMHO Happy Trails.
  • Just he prepared to walk. Doesn't matter how much they add on or what they call it. Give them your bottom line as a final #. Take it or leave it. However, expect taxes and registration fees. Ask them about their book fees, loan fees, interest rates before they even start writing. If too high it is easy to get up and walk. If new RV manufactures usually give 1 year free road service.
  • Do your homework and goggle or yelp the dealer. It's amazing what comments you will find. Just discovered DDC in Garden Grove going there after a bad experience from my selling dealer