2022 new micro minnies - Dealer experience

[BarchettA]

I just wanted to share an experience I had today with a dealer. Ive been looking for a small lightweight camper for myself and my dog for about 4 months. I previously had a large fifth wheel, it was a 2003 fleetwood made. Im now realizing just how good it was after today.

Im not gonna name the dealer, but they have several 2022 1808fbs models.. I havent looked at campers for years. Anyway, I got there, and asked to see the 1808 with the dinette. I walked in and I was really shocked at how poorly made it was. Not only that, but it was used as a part source. Several things were missing like the audio head unit. I started to poke around and found all sorts of loose trimwork. I then got in the shower and noticed a 6" crack right in the center of the upright portion of the shower. The window valances felt like they were made of cardboard. 2 yrs in the hot sun and I dont know what that unit would look like.

I started to look at other similar models and saw parts missing on some as well.

This is a nationwide dealer. So I dont know if it is just this dealer or what is going on. But buying a new one remote doesnt seem feasible because Id wind up spending a week waiting for it to be fixed before I could take delivery if this is what is going on. OR, Id have spend a LOT of money on a 2023 I guess.. one that just arrived with all of its parts (in theory). In my opinion, 2023 campers are outrageously, shamelessly priced. I would say 40% over-priced. And that includes them all like Lance and Outdoor travel trailer, northwoods etc.. the top brands.

Anyway, this is what I saw, and my opinion. Id appreciate it if I was chastised for that. I think everyone who might be here looking for a Winnebago should know about this to at least look for the same issue especially if buying one of these "2022 deals". My guess is dealers cannot get parts and they are forced to cannibalize their inventory. Unless of course this was a unique situation.. HOWEVER.. I was warned by a salesman who quit his job and stayed in contact with me that this sort of thing was going on and to completely avoid covid RVs (unrelated dealer in a different state).

Anyway.. be careful folks.. the RV industry is in big trouble.