RVs, Lemon Laws and You

Regardless of the high cost of fuel, Americans love their gas-guzzling RVs. After all, what better way are you able to enjoy the great outdoors at a national park or campground? And how else are you able to travel in style without paying the high cost of accommodation at the resort or hotel? Despite their oftentimes unwieldy bulk, despite their lack associated with fuel economy, sometimes an RV is simply the only way to proceed. Unfortunately, like any other vehicle, an RV can break down-even new the one-, and most state's lemon won't protect its disgruntled owner.

Although legally RVs are thought motor vehicles (albeit often very expensive ones), most states exempt them from coverage under lemon laws that offer other consumers with recourse against manufacturers should their vehicles prove defective. What prompts states to exclude RV owners out of this legal protection?

Unlike most cars, which are mass-produced en masse, RVs are mostly assembled manually from parts produced by multiple companies. For instance, the drive train may be made by an one auto manufacturer, the body by another, and the actual living quarters by several more. There is no clearly discernible, single manufacturer that may be held responsible for a vehicle defect. Although a handful of states supply coverage for RVs under their lemon laws, most cover only the generate train, not the living quarters. If you have a transmission problem after that, you're in luck: you may have recourse under your state's lemon regulation. If the stove stops functioning properly, however, fixing the problem is your decision.

If you plan to purchase an RV, take precautions to minimize your own risk. Check your state's lemon laws to see if the vehicle you intend to buy is protected. Also, carefully examine the warranties offered by numerous manufacturers. Although state lemon laws may not help you if the fridge experiences a meltdown, the manufacturer's guarantee might. Extended warranties, which are often offered by the point of sale, are also worth considering.

Finally, research the producer. Does the company have a history of reliability or a past checkered along with lawsuits and recalls? If the latter is the case, it might be best to buy your RV from someone else. If the vehicle carries the seal of the actual Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA), the manufacturer has met more than 500 safety standards set through the industry.

Vacationing in a recreational vehicle, either cross country or at a campground within the woods, can be a tremendous amount of fun-that is, if your Motorhomes in proper working order. Sitting by the side of the road encircled by orange cones, however, might constitute the worst trip of your existence, second only to waiting in a mechanics shop. That's why it's imperative before you decide to buy to consult your state's lemon laws. If they offer little safety, be proactive. Take the measures you must to protect yourself as the consumer.