One of the largest RV manufacturers in North America, Forest River produces travel trailers, destination trailers, and toy haulers. Forest River's product range includes a variety of floor plans and models, making it ideal for those who love the outdoors. This company is well-known for its ability to produce high-quality items at an affordable cost.
Forest River, which was established originally in 1996, is now owned billionaire Warren Buffet. It is a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, the world's largest investor conglomerate. In addition to selling recreational vehicles, the company designs and manufactures pontoon boats, buses, cargo trailers, and utility trailers.
The company's original models were fifth wheels, travel trailers, and pop-up tent campers. The company's first production of Class A Motorhomes was in 1998. Dynamax Corporation was purchased by the company in 2011. It expanded its product range to include luxury motorhomes with the new acquisition. It introduced the Trifecta pontoon model in 2016.
Although Forest River has gained a reputation for excellent value for money, many customers complain that its after-sales service is poor. Numerous complaints were made about issues with the build quality. They complained of plumbing issues and other problems. The company was also accused for trademark infringement.
While the company claims they will provide a one-year warranty for all customers, this is only valid for the first purchaser. You cannot transfer your warranty to a Forest River model if it was purchased at a Forest River dealership. This can be frustrating if you are trying to get service outside of the dealership.
The company has been involved at least a handful of lawsuits in the past few years. The company was also the subject of a criminal fraud claim. The website of the company has an A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau. However the BBB doesn't have any certification about the company’s integrity. Forest River has received only 250 complaints over the past three years, according to the BBB.
Forest River RV is not the only one to have received an award. Thor, Heartland Keystone, Grand Design and Keystone are all recipients of awards for their outstanding products. Each of those manufacturers has received at least three stars, but none have reached the 5.0 Star mark.
Forest River RVs' build quality is not the best, but they have many models, floor plans, features, and options. Forest River RVs come with a free 1-year warranty on some models, making them attractive choices for those looking for a new RV. These RVs are also very competitively priced.
Although many Forest River RV owners complain about after-sales service issues, it doesn't have to be that way. If you establish good working relationships with your local dealer, your problems are likely to be addressed quickly and efficiently. You should be alert for potential repairs or maintenance issues as soon you notice them.