Does an affordable, quality class A or C exist?

[Dlathem]

Posting this to both the A and C forum as we are buying our first RV and haven't decided between the two yet.

We've looked at the Freedom Elite Thor as well as the Thor Axis, both between 23' and 25'. We have three girls under the age of 7, so I'm looking for something that the girls can enjoy and we can drive w/o the need to pull a car behind...Small enough to get in and out of places relatively easy.

Loved the Axis, then I get home and read multiple horrible reviews on the quality of Thor units. Ok, so I start looking around at other units from other manufacturers and literally every manufacturer, including Winnebago, has horror stories of initial quality and / or reliability.

I have to admit, it's really squashing our excitement. I have two Toyotas with a total of 600k miles between the two of them. They're well built, reliable, and I'd drive either anywhere. Is this impossible in the RV world? Looking to spend around $70-$75k. I'm fine with a used unit, let someone else take the depreciation hit, so it doesn't have to be new. I just want something well built.

Any suggestions?

[johnwalkerpa1]

Some units are better than others but you will find many people happy with the entry level units and some unhappy with the higher end units too. And all combinations thereof:)

In reality, it is going to be rare to find any RV at any price point that will match the quality and reliability you found with your two cars. And, even the most reliable of brands (car, RV, or otherwise) still churns out the occasional lemon.

Remember that very few people make a lot of noise about something that works well. But, almost everyone will scream about something that does not. There are indeed a few people that have had true nightmares out there. But, I expect there are far more satisfied people out there than it seems.

I wouldn't let it bother you too much and certainly don't let it talk you out of your plans...Find a make/model/and most importantly floor plan you like then be extra careful with your inspection/checklists. If buying new, the dealer is key.

Despite the occasional annoyances, we have always found that the good far outweighs the bad...Have fun!

[ronfisherman]

Second Chance wrote:
It's against forum rules to double post (same post in multiple forums). Most folks follow the "Newest" tab at the top, so they see everything regardless of which forum.

Rob

Thanks Rob.

Please follow the rules.
Thread closed.

[Second_Chance]

It's against forum rules to double post (same post in multiple forums). Most folks follow the "Newest" tab at the top, so they see everything regardless of which forum.

Rob

[Dlathem]

“Centerline” I’m a bit confused by your reply as I did mention my price range and am clearly asking for opinions. That’s the purpose of my posting.

To everyone else, thanks for the quick feedback. I’m going to look at a used unit from one of the “higher priced” manufacturers like NewMar or Tiffton. I believe that’s going to give me the best value and quality.

[centerline]

as MikeBreeze said, its all relative...

what is affordable to some is not to others... and quality??? what is quality?
size and amenities being somewhat equal, quality at a $30,000 dollar price point will not be the same as the quality of a $250000 dollar unit. one cant expect something for nothing...

you are asking a loaded question that can only be answered with a simple yes or no, which both answers are correct, depending on if you are buying new or used, and how quickly someone wants to get out from under their payments...

a better question to get the information you may be searching for is,(after determining a price range), which rv's offer the best value for the dollar, and which ones give the least value?... then people can give an actual answer based on their experiences, which again, is only a "relative" opinion...

[MobileBasset]

Until RVs are made on automated assembly lines they will never be as reliable as today’s cars and trucks. That is just the way it is. Most of us here just choose to have lots of fun in spite of it. Good luck with your shopping.

[Bordercollie]

Most motorhomes use the same brands of appliances, air conditioners, furnaces, etc., etc. There is a difference in quality of materials used and workmanship in the "housebox".Most Class C's are built on the same Ford E-450 chassis.
We owned a 1990 Toyota Camry wagon that was the soul of reliability. There is no comparison between a motorhome full of appliances and electrical devices with a relatively simple car. I liken owning and using a motorhome to buying, using and MAINTAINING a cabin cruiser or an airplane. It's a fairly expensive hobby whether you buy new, slightly used or old needing expensive repairs and updating. If you and your wife and kids will continue to enjoy camping and touring, and can afford all of the continuing costs, it can be worthwhile. The
"Dad" will usually need to handle much of the packing and getting ready for trips and unpacking afterward and keeping the rig ready for the next trip. Advice: Buy a 3 year old rig, in like new condition, with everything working and records of required maintenance. It should be around 27 feet long with rear bedroom floorplan. Kids can sleep in the front overhead bed and convertible couch or dinette. Slides are nice but can have mechanical problems. Buy a popular name brand rig like Winnebago, has good reputation for
warranty fixes and owner support. We own a 2004 Fleetwood Tioga 26Q that had factory defects when new, took time to get dealer fixes, same as most brands.
Take your time, learning from this forum and seeing what's available and prices. Good luck in your search.

[mikebreeze]

It's all relative. You can buy a new, inexpensive RV or a used, formerly expensive RV. It depends on the floor plan, what features you want and how much you want to spend.

I went the route of buying a used, inexpensive class C RV. I'm into my 6th year of ownership and had my first major expense (ball joints & front end alignment) late last year. Overall, I've been happy with my rig. I've taken over 60 trips in it and traveled over 12K miles in the last 6 years. 'The Breeze' has never left me stranded.

I wish you the best in your search.

[PartyOf_Five]

You'll get a number of comments and suggestions, particularly on units sold by the factory.
Another track is to buy at 1/3 the price point, then sell it in five years or less. Your needs will likely evolve by then as well.