Tips for Finding a Reputable RV Dealer

You have decided that the RV lifestyle is for you and now you have begun researching the perfect RV for your needs. A lot of buyers think the research process ends when you find the perfect RV, but there is another important step… finding the perfect RV dealer to work with. You’ll want to invest just as much time if not more, in researching RV dealers to make sure you find a reputable dealer to work with. Choosing the right RV dealership is equally as important as finding the right RV.

“There is another important step… finding the perfect RV dealer to work with.”

Don’t let the excitement of finding your dream RV lead you to overlook the importance of choosing the right dealership. A great dealership will be your partner throughout your RV ownership, providing excellent support and reliable service when you need it. While it’s tempting to focus solely on the lowest price, a trustworthy dealer with a strong reputation will save you both money and stress in the long run. We have listed some questions you may want to answer before you agree to purchase an RV from a dealer.

What do their online reviews say?
In the past, buyers had to rely on word-of-mouth to learn whether or not an RV dealer is reputable. Now with Google and Facebook Reviews more consumers can read about other customer’s experiences with a particular dealer. You will want to make sure to read third-party reviews like the ones on Facebook and Google because dealers are not able to remove negative reviews like reviews featured on dealership websites. We have seen larger “super-store” type dealers remove reviews entirely from their Facebook and Google pages so potential buyers can’t read what their customers are saying about them. If you don’t see any reviews that may be an even larger issue than negative reviews.

Is their online inventory, resources and information complete and accurate?

When you look at a potential dealers’ website are the inventory listings complete and accurate? Do they have photos along with listings so you can see exactly what is in the coach? Working with a dealer that has inaccurate information on their inventory pages should be a red flag, it may mean they are not knowledgeable about the RV you are interested in buying or worse they could be misleading you about the features included in the RV.

At Lichtsinn RV, we include detailed photos, videos and more about our inventory units and our professionally trained sales consultants are more than willing to answer any of your questions.

Do they have a modern, fully-staffed service center?

RVs require service and maintenance and it is imperative that you find a dealer that will support you for the life of your RV and not leave you high and dry when it comes to servicing it in the future. You’ll want to steer clear of dealers with limited service capabilities, such as those operating in outdated facilities with minimal service bays and technicians. These dealerships might not be able to provide the comprehensive care your RV will require in the future.

In 2014, Lichtsinn RV built a new, state-of-the-art RV dealership. Following that, in 2022 we expanded our display lot, campground area and the dealership footprint. Our dealership boasts 9 RV service bays, a large indoor RV parts and camping accessories store, a spacious service check-in area, a video production studio, a large indoor showroom, and an indoor delivery and service drive area. Additionally, we have two guest lounge areas that are equipped with the latest technology and we provide complimentary electrical hookups while you are here for any RV delivery or service appointment.

We realize that you may have questions either immediately following your delivery or after owning your RV for a period of time. At Lichtsinn RV you will be assigned an RV Service Consultant who will be your “go to” person with any related RV service questions.

Do they have accreditation from the RV Manufacturers they sell?

RV manufacturers typically present their top-performing and highest quality dealers with an award so consumers know who the most reputable dealers are. Winnebago’s version of this award is the Flying W Award. The Flying W Award is given to dealerships who have demonstrated exemplary performance in the areas of sales, service and customer satisfaction. Lichtsinn RV has received the Flying W Award from Winnebago Industries each year for over 30 years. We have also been named the largest volume Winnebago Dealer each year since 2015.

Do they have a well trained sales and service staff?

You will want to work with a professional and knowledgeable sales person when you are purchasing an RV. With all the features and components included in RVs you will want to work with a sales consultant who has in-depth, product specific knowledge. You will also want to know if your service technicians are certified to work on your RV. The RV Dealer’s Association (RVDA) offers service technician certification programs that provide you with the assurance that a technician has the expertise to work on your unit.

Professional development is key at Lichtsinn RV. Winnebago is the only new motorhome line that we carry so our Winnebago Factory Trained Sales Consultants receive daily professional development so they can keep up on the latest products and features available in Winnebago’s product line. Our service team also receives regular training on servicing products and features from Winnebago and each of our RV service technicians is a RVTI Certified Technician.

What does their delivery process look like?

At Lichtsinn RV, you will receive a complimentary ½ day orientation. During this Orientation a Winnebago Factory trained specialist will review every feature, switch, maintenance and warranty item. In your half day educational orientation, you will learn what to do and not to do with your new RV as well as review maintenance and warranty items. During this orientation, feel free to ask any questions you have, and your advisor will happily answer them. We also recommend that you stay for at least one night during your delivery in our campground so if additional questions or concerns arise overnight you can speak with your service advisor, sales consultant or business manager right away.

The RV buying process is a lengthy, but exciting process and finding the perfect dealer to work with makes the experience that much more enjoyable.

Experience the Best® at Lichtsinn RV, awarded by Winnebago Industries as the #1 Winnebago Dealer in North America each year since 2015. Lichtsinn RV is located 1 mile north of the Winnebago Motorhome Factory in Forest City, IA and we proudly sell new Winnebago motorhomes and pre-owned RVs from various manufacturers. While at Lichtsinn RV, you can expect no delivery miles on new RVs, a complimentary half-day educational orientation of your RV, excellent guest reviews, an assigned support team from sales, parts, service and the business office, superior accommodations, no-hassle pricing and competitive financing. See our extensive new and used inventory here.