Owners have filed 17 complaints
about the 2003 Winnebago Sightseer with NHTSA between 2003 and 2016.
The largest single group is the brakes.
Across this model's run it ranks 1 of 3 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 52
Against the median year of the Winnebago Sightseer. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 100
41.2% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 100
83% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
How 2003 compares with every other Winnebago Sightseer
Complaints filed with NHTSA, by model year. Bar colour is the FaultScore grade:
A
B
C
D
F
ungraded
What breaks on a 2003 Winnebago Sightseer
Every complaint is filed against a part. Follow any row for the complaints about that part alone.
Brakes
317.6%
0 crashes, 2 fires · median 25,500 mi
Other & Unspecified
211.8%
0 crashes, 2 fires · median 5,738 mi
Equipment & Accessories
211.8%
0 crashes, 1 fires · median 5,738 mi
Suspension
211.8%
Median failure at 3,000 miles
Body & Structure
211.8%
0 crashes, 1 fires · median 5,738 mi
Electrical System
211.8%
0 crashes, 1 fires · median 21,560 mi
Windows, Mirrors & Wipers
15.9%
Acceleration & Cruise Control
15.9%
Steering
15.9%
Median failure at 11,744 miles
Transmission & Drivetrain
15.9%
Median failure at 18,000 miles
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
1,000 – 9,999 miles
758.3%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
216.7%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
325.0%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Dec 2003peak 6Jul 2016
Recalls on the 2003 Winnebago Sightseer
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 2010368906 units in Canada
Accessories
Certain refrigerators used in Recreational Vehicles (RVs) contain either a sensing algorithm or a thermal switch to interrupt power when it detects high temperatures that could lead to a fire. An insufficient response time can result in the power not being shut-off in sufficient time to prevent a fire, which could result in property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will install a thermocouple with a faster response time for all refrigerators with a sensing algorithm or a thermal switch.
Recall 2009194279 units in Canada
Brakes
On certain motorhomes, the brake calipers may stick in the applied position. This can result in abnormal heat generation at the wheel end which, if undetected, could eventually lead to soft brake pedal condition due to brake fluid boil. Extended stopping distances may result in a vehicle crash causing property damage, personal injury or death. Correction: Dealers will affect repairs.
Recall 2006305164 units in Canada
Lights And Instruments
Certain motorhomes fail to comply with the requirements of CMVSS 101 and 105. Incorrect software programmed into the instrument panel cluster may not allow activation of certain driver warning indicators. As a result, the instrument cluster may fail to illuminate the warning lamps indicating brake system failure. Correction: Dealers will reprogram the instrument panel cluster.
Recall 200444564 units in Canada
Fuel System
Certain motorhomes may have insufficient clearance in the area where the fuel line and frame cross member intersect. The cross member may wear into the fuel line and cause a leak which has the potential to ignite, resulting in personal injury and/or vehicle and property damage. Correction: Dealers will inspect the fuel line for abrasion wear or damage, and pry the wiring support channel away from the line to provide additional clearance.
Recall 2003350341 units in Canada
Other
On certain recreational vehicles equipped with a Samsung microwave oven, an electrical short can occur in the microwave oven's membrane panel keypad causing the oven to activate without pressing any keypads. This could result in excessive heat, smoke or possibly a fire. Correction: Samsung will notify its customers and repair the membrane panel keypad. In the meantime, consumers should unplug their microwave ovens, if possible. If the consumer is unable to unplug the microwave, they should leave the door ajar until the membrane panel keypad is replaced.
Recall 200316657 units in Canada
Other
On certain vehicles, the flame on the cooking range may be forced downward over the burner or flame outage may occur when the cooking range and furnace are operating at the same time. This condition is due to the location of the furnace and cooking range whereby the furnace may draw air in from above the range burners and cause a downdraft. Should this occur, the flame may go out, the LP gas will continue to flow which will result in a hazardous situation. Personal injury and/or vehicle damage may result. Correction: Dealer will inspect the galley cabinet partition and, if necessary, install a panel to reduce the amount of airflow between the two appliances.
Recall 2003101160 units in Canada
Lights And Instruments
On certain vehicles, the brake system warning indicator will not illuminate when the ignition is in the start position or when the brake fluid is low. Correction: The brake warning indicator bulb from the right side indicator position must be transferred to the left side indicator position of the instrument cluster and the wire harness must be modified.
Recall 20030321 units in Canada
Other
On certain vehicles, a plate which is used to support the spare tire was inadvertently left off D30B motor homes built on a Ford chassis. Without this additional support, the spare tire may fall off the vehicle resulting in property damage and possibly personal injury. Correction: Dealer will inspect the spare tire mount and, if necessary, install a new support plate.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 49,000 milesCollege Station, TXFire
SERVICE BRAKES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 WINNEBAGO SIGHTSEER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL INDEPENDENTLY VEERED TO THE LEFT. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS HIGHER THAN USUAL. WHILE REVERSING TO PARK THE VEHICLE, THE BRAKE PEDAL EXTENDED TO THE FLOOR WHEN IT WAS DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT NOTICED SMOKE EMITTING FROM THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE BRAKE. THE CONTACT ALSO NOTICED THAT THE CALIPERS ON THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE WHEEL WERE STICKING IN THE APPLIED POSITION. THE ABS SENSOR WAS ALSO MELTED AND DAMAGED. THE CONTACT WAS AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND DIAGNOSED THAT THE BRAKE PADS, ABS SENSOR ASSEMBLY, AND THE CALIPER ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT YET REPAIRED THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V186000(SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC). THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 49,000.
NHTSA complaint #10734463 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 5,738 milesNanticoke, PAFire
STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
BOUGHT 2003 WINNEBAGO/ SIGHTSEER MODEL 30B LEFTOVER FROM MEYERS SUPER STORE IN NEW YORK ON FEBRUARY 14, 2004. SINCE THEN HAVE HAD NUMEROUS DEFECTS ON UNIT. HYDRAULIC JACKS FAILED ON FIRST TRIP- LEAK ON JACK AT FITTING, JACK WOULD NOT RETRACT. TAKEN FOR SERVICE, COULD NOT FIND PROBLEM. SERVICE DEALER REPLACED NUMEROUS PARTS IN FIVE TRIPS TO DEALERSHIP (MANIFOLD REPLACED; SOLENOID REPLACED; SWITCHED WIRES; REPLACED SWITCH BOX INSIDE UNIT - TOUCHPAD). LEFT REAR JACK STILL DOES NOT SEEM TO WORK IN UNISON WITH OTHER JACKS WHEN USED. SECOND TRIP OUT - WATER HEATER FAILED TO IGNITE ON 2ND DAY. RESISTOR REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY. OTHER PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED SO FAR: POD LEFT OF ENTRY DOOR LEAKS, STAIN ON CARPET BY TABLE WHEN SLIDE IS OUT - SHAMPOOED OUT TWICE - RETURNS; ENTRY DOOR HARD TO CLOSE - MUST BE SLAMMED TO CLOSE TIGHT; BORDER IN BATHROOM AND KITCHEN AREAS FALLING OFF; STAIN ON CURTAIN - PASSENGER SIDE - FRONT SHADE; 30 AMP PLUG SEPARATING FROM CORD ON LANDLINE FOR CAMPER - REPLACED WARRANTY. ENTRY DOOR RATTLES WHEN UNIT IS MOVING. ON 9-27-04, ON 2ND TRIP BACK TO SERVICE DEALER FOR REPAIR OF GENERATOR (NOT WORKING) ENGINE COMPARTMENT CAUGHT FIRE WHEN JACKS WERE BEING PUT DOWN DUE TO HYDRAULIC FLUID HITTING EXHAUST MANIFOLD FROM BROKEN HYDRAULIC LINE WHERE IT EXITS RACEWAY FOR HOSES BEHIND ENGINE. ON 10-8-04 , HEARD FROM SERVICE DEALER (SPITLER RV, MONTOURSVILLE, PA) THAT WINNEBAGO ACKNOWLEDGES SHARP EDGE OF RAIL CAUSED HOSE TO BE CUT AND AUTHORIZED SPITLERS TO DO NECESSARY REPAIRS. DO NOT FEEL THAT REPAIRS ARE WARRANTED AT THIS TIME DUE TO PROBLEMS AND FIRE ON UNIT. UNIT SHOULD BE REPLACED OR BOUGHT BACK AT ORIGINAL SALES PRICE & TRADE IN SHOULD BE REFUNDED IN CASH.
NHTSA complaint #10093842 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 5,738 milesNanticoke, PAFire
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
BOUGHT 2003 WINNEBAGO/ SIGHTSEER MODEL 30B LEFTOVER FROM MEYERS SUPER STORE IN NEW YORK ON FEBRUARY 14, 2004. SINCE THEN HAVE HAD NUMEROUS DEFECTS ON UNIT. HYDRAULIC JACKS FAILED ON FIRST TRIP- LEAK ON JACK AT FITTING, JACK WOULD NOT RETRACT. TAKEN FOR SERVICE, COULD NOT FIND PROBLEM. SERVICE DEALER REPLACED NUMEROUS PARTS IN FIVE TRIPS TO DEALERSHIP (MANIFOLD REPLACED; SOLENOID REPLACED; SWITCHED WIRES; REPLACED SWITCH BOX INSIDE UNIT - TOUCHPAD). LEFT REAR JACK STILL DOES NOT SEEM TO WORK IN UNISON WITH OTHER JACKS WHEN USED. SECOND TRIP OUT - WATER HEATER FAILED TO IGNITE ON 2ND DAY. RESISTOR REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY. OTHER PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED SO FAR: POD LEFT OF ENTRY DOOR LEAKS, STAIN ON CARPET BY TABLE WHEN SLIDE IS OUT - SHAMPOOED OUT TWICE - RETURNS; ENTRY DOOR HARD TO CLOSE - MUST BE SLAMMED TO CLOSE TIGHT; BORDER IN BATHROOM AND KITCHEN AREAS FALLING OFF; STAIN ON CURTAIN - PASSENGER SIDE - FRONT SHADE; 30 AMP PLUG SEPARATING FROM CORD ON LANDLINE FOR CAMPER - REPLACED WARRANTY. ENTRY DOOR RATTLES WHEN UNIT IS MOVING. ON 9-27-04, ON 2ND TRIP BACK TO SERVICE DEALER FOR REPAIR OF GENERATOR (NOT WORKING) ENGINE COMPARTMENT CAUGHT FIRE WHEN JACKS WERE BEING PUT DOWN DUE TO HYDRAULIC FLUID HITTING EXHAUST MANIFOLD FROM BROKEN HYDRAULIC LINE WHERE IT EXITS RACEWAY FOR HOSES BEHIND ENGINE. ON 10-8-04 , HEARD FROM SERVICE DEALER (SPITLER RV, MONTOURSVILLE, PA) THAT WINNEBAGO ACKNOWLEDGES SHARP EDGE OF RAIL CAUSED HOSE TO BE CUT AND AUTHORIZED SPITLERS TO DO NECESSARY REPAIRS. DO NOT FEEL THAT REPAIRS ARE WARRANTED AT THIS TIME DUE TO PROBLEMS AND FIRE ON UNIT. UNIT SHOULD BE REPLACED OR BOUGHT BACK AT ORIGINAL SALES PRICE & TRADE IN SHOULD BE REFUNDED IN CASH.
NHTSA complaint #10093842 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 5,738 milesNanticoke, PAFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
BOUGHT 2003 WINNEBAGO/ SIGHTSEER MODEL 30B LEFTOVER FROM MEYERS SUPER STORE IN NEW YORK ON FEBRUARY 14, 2004. SINCE THEN HAVE HAD NUMEROUS DEFECTS ON UNIT. HYDRAULIC JACKS FAILED ON FIRST TRIP- LEAK ON JACK AT FITTING, JACK WOULD NOT RETRACT. TAKEN FOR SERVICE, COULD NOT FIND PROBLEM. SERVICE DEALER REPLACED NUMEROUS PARTS IN FIVE TRIPS TO DEALERSHIP (MANIFOLD REPLACED; SOLENOID REPLACED; SWITCHED WIRES; REPLACED SWITCH BOX INSIDE UNIT - TOUCHPAD). LEFT REAR JACK STILL DOES NOT SEEM TO WORK IN UNISON WITH OTHER JACKS WHEN USED. SECOND TRIP OUT - WATER HEATER FAILED TO IGNITE ON 2ND DAY. RESISTOR REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY. OTHER PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED SO FAR: POD LEFT OF ENTRY DOOR LEAKS, STAIN ON CARPET BY TABLE WHEN SLIDE IS OUT - SHAMPOOED OUT TWICE - RETURNS; ENTRY DOOR HARD TO CLOSE - MUST BE SLAMMED TO CLOSE TIGHT; BORDER IN BATHROOM AND KITCHEN AREAS FALLING OFF; STAIN ON CURTAIN - PASSENGER SIDE - FRONT SHADE; 30 AMP PLUG SEPARATING FROM CORD ON LANDLINE FOR CAMPER - REPLACED WARRANTY. ENTRY DOOR RATTLES WHEN UNIT IS MOVING. ON 9-27-04, ON 2ND TRIP BACK TO SERVICE DEALER FOR REPAIR OF GENERATOR (NOT WORKING) ENGINE COMPARTMENT CAUGHT FIRE WHEN JACKS WERE BEING PUT DOWN DUE TO HYDRAULIC FLUID HITTING EXHAUST MANIFOLD FROM BROKEN HYDRAULIC LINE WHERE IT EXITS RACEWAY FOR HOSES BEHIND ENGINE. ON 10-8-04 , HEARD FROM SERVICE DEALER (SPITLER RV, MONTOURSVILLE, PA) THAT WINNEBAGO ACKNOWLEDGES SHARP EDGE OF RAIL CAUSED HOSE TO BE CUT AND AUTHORIZED SPITLERS TO DO NECESSARY REPAIRS. DO NOT FEEL THAT REPAIRS ARE WARRANTED AT THIS TIME DUE TO PROBLEMS AND FIRE ON UNIT. UNIT SHOULD BE REPLACED OR BOUGHT BACK AT ORIGINAL SALES PRICE & TRADE IN SHOULD BE REFUNDED IN CASH.
NHTSA complaint #10093842 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 5,738 milesNanticoke, PAFire
EQUIPMENT
BOUGHT 2003 WINNEBAGO/ SIGHTSEER MODEL 30B LEFTOVER FROM MEYERS SUPER STORE IN NEW YORK ON FEBRUARY 14, 2004. SINCE THEN HAVE HAD NUMEROUS DEFECTS ON UNIT. HYDRAULIC JACKS FAILED ON FIRST TRIP- LEAK ON JACK AT FITTING, JACK WOULD NOT RETRACT. TAKEN FOR SERVICE, COULD NOT FIND PROBLEM. SERVICE DEALER REPLACED NUMEROUS PARTS IN FIVE TRIPS TO DEALERSHIP (MANIFOLD REPLACED; SOLENOID REPLACED; SWITCHED WIRES; REPLACED SWITCH BOX INSIDE UNIT - TOUCHPAD). LEFT REAR JACK STILL DOES NOT SEEM TO WORK IN UNISON WITH OTHER JACKS WHEN USED. SECOND TRIP OUT - WATER HEATER FAILED TO IGNITE ON 2ND DAY. RESISTOR REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY. OTHER PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED SO FAR: POD LEFT OF ENTRY DOOR LEAKS, STAIN ON CARPET BY TABLE WHEN SLIDE IS OUT - SHAMPOOED OUT TWICE - RETURNS; ENTRY DOOR HARD TO CLOSE - MUST BE SLAMMED TO CLOSE TIGHT; BORDER IN BATHROOM AND KITCHEN AREAS FALLING OFF; STAIN ON CURTAIN - PASSENGER SIDE - FRONT SHADE; 30 AMP PLUG SEPARATING FROM CORD ON LANDLINE FOR CAMPER - REPLACED WARRANTY. ENTRY DOOR RATTLES WHEN UNIT IS MOVING. ON 9-27-04, ON 2ND TRIP BACK TO SERVICE DEALER FOR REPAIR OF GENERATOR (NOT WORKING) ENGINE COMPARTMENT CAUGHT FIRE WHEN JACKS WERE BEING PUT DOWN DUE TO HYDRAULIC FLUID HITTING EXHAUST MANIFOLD FROM BROKEN HYDRAULIC LINE WHERE IT EXITS RACEWAY FOR HOSES BEHIND ENGINE. ON 10-8-04 , HEARD FROM SERVICE DEALER (SPITLER RV, MONTOURSVILLE, PA) THAT WINNEBAGO ACKNOWLEDGES SHARP EDGE OF RAIL CAUSED HOSE TO BE CUT AND AUTHORIZED SPITLERS TO DO NECESSARY REPAIRS. DO NOT FEEL THAT REPAIRS ARE WARRANTED AT THIS TIME DUE TO PROBLEMS AND FIRE ON UNIT. UNIT SHOULD BE REPLACED OR BOUGHT BACK AT ORIGINAL SALES PRICE & TRADE IN SHOULD BE REFUNDED IN CASH.
NHTSA complaint #10093842 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 5,738 milesNanticoke, PAFire
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
DROVE MOTORHOME FOR 1.25 HRS. TO DELIVER FOR REPAIR OF GENERATOR WHICH WAS NOT WORKING. UNIT APPROXIMATELY 8 MONTHS OLD - STILL UNDER WARRANTY. ON ARRIVAL AT DEALER, ATTEMPTED TO PUT DOWN HYDRAULIC JACKS. FIRE STARTED IN ENGINE COMPARTMENT AREA FROM LEAK ON HYDRAULIC LINE THAT BROKE DUE TO DESIGN DEFECT. THIS WAS CONFIRMED ON 10-5-04 BY INSURANCE ADJUSTER INSPECTOR. UNIT HAD PREVIOUS PROBLEMS WITH THE HYDRAULIC JACK SYSTEM, STARTING ON 4-30-04 TO PRESENT.
NHTSA complaint #10093652 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
at 25,500 milesYoung Harris, GA
SERVICE BRAKES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 WINNEBAGO SIGHTSEER. SHORTLY AFTER PURCHASING THE RECREATIONAL VEHICLE, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS VERY SOFT AND HAD TO BE DEPRESSED TO THE FLOORBOARD IN ORDER TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ABS MELTED ON THE BACKING PLATE OF THE FRONT WHEELS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 25,500. UPDATED 09/06/16
NHTSA complaint #10882673 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 49,000 milesCollege Station, TXFire
SERVICE BRAKES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 WINNEBAGO SIGHTSEER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL INDEPENDENTLY VEERED TO THE LEFT. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS HIGHER THAN USUAL. WHILE REVERSING TO PARK THE VEHICLE, THE BRAKE PEDAL EXTENDED TO THE FLOOR WHEN IT WAS DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT NOTICED SMOKE EMITTING FROM THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE BRAKE. THE CONTACT ALSO NOTICED THAT THE CALIPERS ON THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE WHEEL WERE STICKING IN THE APPLIED POSITION. THE ABS SENSOR WAS ALSO MELTED AND DAMAGED. THE CONTACT WAS AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND DIAGNOSED THAT THE BRAKE PADS, ABS SENSOR ASSEMBLY, AND THE CALIPER ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT YET REPAIRED THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V186000(SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC). THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 49,000.
NHTSA complaint #10734463 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 18,000 milesPoulsbo, WA
POWER TRAIN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 WINNEBAGO SIGHTSEER 33D. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH, HE SHIFTED TO THIRD GEAR AND THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE FAILURE RECURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 18,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 30,389.
NHTSA complaint #10568864 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 37,382 milesAuburn, MI
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
PREPARING TO GO CAMPING, I STARTED MY WINNEBAGO SIGHTSEER AND POSITIONED IT TO ATTACH MY TOWED VEHICLE. I SHUT OFF THE ENGINE AT THAT POINT. AFTER COMPLETING THE HITCHING PROCEDURE, I ATTEMPTED TO START MY RV. IT WOULD NOT START. AFTER HAVING THE VEHICLE TOWED TO A LOCAL TRUCK DEALERSHIP, THEY FOUND "THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH AND ONE CONNECTOR WAS BURNT." THEY CALLED WINNEBAGO AND "FOUND THAT THERE WAS AN UPDATE RELAY HARNESS FOR THIS PROBLEM" WHICH THEY ORDERED AN INSTALLED. ALTHOUGH THIS OBVIOUSLY WAS A RECURRING PROBLEM (OTHERWISE WHY AN UPDATED KIT), THE SERVICE REP I THEN CONTACTED AT WINNEBAGO, CLAIMED TO HAVE NO KNOWLEDGE OF THIS DEFECTIVE SWITCH AND STATED THERE WAS NO RECALL OR ADVISORY BULLETIN CONCERNING THIS PROBLEM. I DID SOME RUDIMENTARY SEARCHING ON THE INTERNET AND FOUND AT LEAST 2 DIFFERENT COMPLAINTS RE THIS SAME PROBLEM, ONE OF WHICH WAS ON A 2005 SIGHTSEER. I IN THOSE INCIDENTS IT SEEMS THAT THE SWITCH SHORTED OUT WHILE THE RIGS WERE UNDERWAY, RESULTING IN A SUDDEN LOSS OF ENGINE POWER, POWER STEERING AND POWER BRAKES. I CONSIDER MYSELF FORTUNATE THAT DID NOT HAPPEN TO ME. HOWEVER THE TOWING, LABOR AND PARTS CHARGE CAME TO OVER $1000, MUCH OF THE LABOR COST DUE TO THE TIME INVOLVED IN DIAGNOSING THE PROBLEM. THE WINNEBAGO SERVICE REP MADE THE OBSERVATION THAT THEY SHOULD HAVE CALLED WINNEBAGO SOONER, THE IMPLICATION BEING THAT WINNEBAGO KNOWS ABOUT THE PROBLEM. THIS AGAIN BRINGS UP THE QUESTION WHY NO RECALL OR ADVISORY BULLETIN TO OWNERS? I HAVE THE DAMAGED SWITCH AND CONNECTOR IN MY POSSESSION AND HAVE PHOTOGRAPHED THEM AS WELL.
NHTSA complaint #10234920 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bedford, VA
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 WINNEBAGO SIGHTSEER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 07V336000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL). THE DEALER DISCONNECTED THE SPEED CONTROL AND STATED THAT THE PARTS WOULD BE UNAVAILABLE UNTIL THE FIRST QUARTER OF 2008. THE CONTACT WAS DISSATISFIED WITH THE REMEDY AND THE AMOUNT OF TIME IT WOULD TAKE TO REPAIR. THERE HAD BEEN NO FAILURE TO DATE. THE ENGINE SIZE WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 37,500. UPDATED 11/06/07
NHTSA complaint #10205948 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 11,744 milesWenatchee, WA
STEERING:LINKAGES:ARM:IDLER AND ATTACHMENT
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED, IT WAS RECOMMENDED THAT THE VEHICLE BE LOADED AND TAKEN IN FOR WHEEL ALIGNMENT. WHILE HAVING THE FRONT END ALIGNED, THE INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP DETERMINED THE FRONT LINKAGES, IDLER ARM AND RELAY SWITCH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE PARTS WERE REPLACED AND THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER INDICATED THE PARTS MIGHT NOT BE HEAVY ENOUGH FOR THE VEHICLE AND COULD FAIL AGAIN. UPDATED 08/25/06.
NHTSA complaint #10163985 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 5,738 milesNanticoke, PAFire
STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
BOUGHT 2003 WINNEBAGO/ SIGHTSEER MODEL 30B LEFTOVER FROM MEYERS SUPER STORE IN NEW YORK ON FEBRUARY 14, 2004. SINCE THEN HAVE HAD NUMEROUS DEFECTS ON UNIT. HYDRAULIC JACKS FAILED ON FIRST TRIP- LEAK ON JACK AT FITTING, JACK WOULD NOT RETRACT. TAKEN FOR SERVICE, COULD NOT FIND PROBLEM. SERVICE DEALER REPLACED NUMEROUS PARTS IN FIVE TRIPS TO DEALERSHIP (MANIFOLD REPLACED; SOLENOID REPLACED; SWITCHED WIRES; REPLACED SWITCH BOX INSIDE UNIT - TOUCHPAD). LEFT REAR JACK STILL DOES NOT SEEM TO WORK IN UNISON WITH OTHER JACKS WHEN USED. SECOND TRIP OUT - WATER HEATER FAILED TO IGNITE ON 2ND DAY. RESISTOR REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY. OTHER PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED SO FAR: POD LEFT OF ENTRY DOOR LEAKS, STAIN ON CARPET BY TABLE WHEN SLIDE IS OUT - SHAMPOOED OUT TWICE - RETURNS; ENTRY DOOR HARD TO CLOSE - MUST BE SLAMMED TO CLOSE TIGHT; BORDER IN BATHROOM AND KITCHEN AREAS FALLING OFF; STAIN ON CURTAIN - PASSENGER SIDE - FRONT SHADE; 30 AMP PLUG SEPARATING FROM CORD ON LANDLINE FOR CAMPER - REPLACED WARRANTY. ENTRY DOOR RATTLES WHEN UNIT IS MOVING. ON 9-27-04, ON 2ND TRIP BACK TO SERVICE DEALER FOR REPAIR OF GENERATOR (NOT WORKING) ENGINE COMPARTMENT CAUGHT FIRE WHEN JACKS WERE BEING PUT DOWN DUE TO HYDRAULIC FLUID HITTING EXHAUST MANIFOLD FROM BROKEN HYDRAULIC LINE WHERE IT EXITS RACEWAY FOR HOSES BEHIND ENGINE. ON 10-8-04 , HEARD FROM SERVICE DEALER (SPITLER RV, MONTOURSVILLE, PA) THAT WINNEBAGO ACKNOWLEDGES SHARP EDGE OF RAIL CAUSED HOSE TO BE CUT AND AUTHORIZED SPITLERS TO DO NECESSARY REPAIRS. DO NOT FEEL THAT REPAIRS ARE WARRANTED AT THIS TIME DUE TO PROBLEMS AND FIRE ON UNIT. UNIT SHOULD BE REPLACED OR BOUGHT BACK AT ORIGINAL SALES PRICE & TRADE IN SHOULD BE REFUNDED IN CASH.
NHTSA complaint #10093842 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 5,738 milesNanticoke, PAFire
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
BOUGHT 2003 WINNEBAGO/ SIGHTSEER MODEL 30B LEFTOVER FROM MEYERS SUPER STORE IN NEW YORK ON FEBRUARY 14, 2004. SINCE THEN HAVE HAD NUMEROUS DEFECTS ON UNIT. HYDRAULIC JACKS FAILED ON FIRST TRIP- LEAK ON JACK AT FITTING, JACK WOULD NOT RETRACT. TAKEN FOR SERVICE, COULD NOT FIND PROBLEM. SERVICE DEALER REPLACED NUMEROUS PARTS IN FIVE TRIPS TO DEALERSHIP (MANIFOLD REPLACED; SOLENOID REPLACED; SWITCHED WIRES; REPLACED SWITCH BOX INSIDE UNIT - TOUCHPAD). LEFT REAR JACK STILL DOES NOT SEEM TO WORK IN UNISON WITH OTHER JACKS WHEN USED. SECOND TRIP OUT - WATER HEATER FAILED TO IGNITE ON 2ND DAY. RESISTOR REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY. OTHER PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED SO FAR: POD LEFT OF ENTRY DOOR LEAKS, STAIN ON CARPET BY TABLE WHEN SLIDE IS OUT - SHAMPOOED OUT TWICE - RETURNS; ENTRY DOOR HARD TO CLOSE - MUST BE SLAMMED TO CLOSE TIGHT; BORDER IN BATHROOM AND KITCHEN AREAS FALLING OFF; STAIN ON CURTAIN - PASSENGER SIDE - FRONT SHADE; 30 AMP PLUG SEPARATING FROM CORD ON LANDLINE FOR CAMPER - REPLACED WARRANTY. ENTRY DOOR RATTLES WHEN UNIT IS MOVING. ON 9-27-04, ON 2ND TRIP BACK TO SERVICE DEALER FOR REPAIR OF GENERATOR (NOT WORKING) ENGINE COMPARTMENT CAUGHT FIRE WHEN JACKS WERE BEING PUT DOWN DUE TO HYDRAULIC FLUID HITTING EXHAUST MANIFOLD FROM BROKEN HYDRAULIC LINE WHERE IT EXITS RACEWAY FOR HOSES BEHIND ENGINE. ON 10-8-04 , HEARD FROM SERVICE DEALER (SPITLER RV, MONTOURSVILLE, PA) THAT WINNEBAGO ACKNOWLEDGES SHARP EDGE OF RAIL CAUSED HOSE TO BE CUT AND AUTHORIZED SPITLERS TO DO NECESSARY REPAIRS. DO NOT FEEL THAT REPAIRS ARE WARRANTED AT THIS TIME DUE TO PROBLEMS AND FIRE ON UNIT. UNIT SHOULD BE REPLACED OR BOUGHT BACK AT ORIGINAL SALES PRICE & TRADE IN SHOULD BE REFUNDED IN CASH.
NHTSA complaint #10093842 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 5,738 milesNanticoke, PAFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
BOUGHT 2003 WINNEBAGO/ SIGHTSEER MODEL 30B LEFTOVER FROM MEYERS SUPER STORE IN NEW YORK ON FEBRUARY 14, 2004. SINCE THEN HAVE HAD NUMEROUS DEFECTS ON UNIT. HYDRAULIC JACKS FAILED ON FIRST TRIP- LEAK ON JACK AT FITTING, JACK WOULD NOT RETRACT. TAKEN FOR SERVICE, COULD NOT FIND PROBLEM. SERVICE DEALER REPLACED NUMEROUS PARTS IN FIVE TRIPS TO DEALERSHIP (MANIFOLD REPLACED; SOLENOID REPLACED; SWITCHED WIRES; REPLACED SWITCH BOX INSIDE UNIT - TOUCHPAD). LEFT REAR JACK STILL DOES NOT SEEM TO WORK IN UNISON WITH OTHER JACKS WHEN USED. SECOND TRIP OUT - WATER HEATER FAILED TO IGNITE ON 2ND DAY. RESISTOR REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY. OTHER PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED SO FAR: POD LEFT OF ENTRY DOOR LEAKS, STAIN ON CARPET BY TABLE WHEN SLIDE IS OUT - SHAMPOOED OUT TWICE - RETURNS; ENTRY DOOR HARD TO CLOSE - MUST BE SLAMMED TO CLOSE TIGHT; BORDER IN BATHROOM AND KITCHEN AREAS FALLING OFF; STAIN ON CURTAIN - PASSENGER SIDE - FRONT SHADE; 30 AMP PLUG SEPARATING FROM CORD ON LANDLINE FOR CAMPER - REPLACED WARRANTY. ENTRY DOOR RATTLES WHEN UNIT IS MOVING. ON 9-27-04, ON 2ND TRIP BACK TO SERVICE DEALER FOR REPAIR OF GENERATOR (NOT WORKING) ENGINE COMPARTMENT CAUGHT FIRE WHEN JACKS WERE BEING PUT DOWN DUE TO HYDRAULIC FLUID HITTING EXHAUST MANIFOLD FROM BROKEN HYDRAULIC LINE WHERE IT EXITS RACEWAY FOR HOSES BEHIND ENGINE. ON 10-8-04 , HEARD FROM SERVICE DEALER (SPITLER RV, MONTOURSVILLE, PA) THAT WINNEBAGO ACKNOWLEDGES SHARP EDGE OF RAIL CAUSED HOSE TO BE CUT AND AUTHORIZED SPITLERS TO DO NECESSARY REPAIRS. DO NOT FEEL THAT REPAIRS ARE WARRANTED AT THIS TIME DUE TO PROBLEMS AND FIRE ON UNIT. UNIT SHOULD BE REPLACED OR BOUGHT BACK AT ORIGINAL SALES PRICE & TRADE IN SHOULD BE REFUNDED IN CASH.
NHTSA complaint #10093842 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 5,738 milesNanticoke, PAFire
EQUIPMENT
BOUGHT 2003 WINNEBAGO/ SIGHTSEER MODEL 30B LEFTOVER FROM MEYERS SUPER STORE IN NEW YORK ON FEBRUARY 14, 2004. SINCE THEN HAVE HAD NUMEROUS DEFECTS ON UNIT. HYDRAULIC JACKS FAILED ON FIRST TRIP- LEAK ON JACK AT FITTING, JACK WOULD NOT RETRACT. TAKEN FOR SERVICE, COULD NOT FIND PROBLEM. SERVICE DEALER REPLACED NUMEROUS PARTS IN FIVE TRIPS TO DEALERSHIP (MANIFOLD REPLACED; SOLENOID REPLACED; SWITCHED WIRES; REPLACED SWITCH BOX INSIDE UNIT - TOUCHPAD). LEFT REAR JACK STILL DOES NOT SEEM TO WORK IN UNISON WITH OTHER JACKS WHEN USED. SECOND TRIP OUT - WATER HEATER FAILED TO IGNITE ON 2ND DAY. RESISTOR REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY. OTHER PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED SO FAR: POD LEFT OF ENTRY DOOR LEAKS, STAIN ON CARPET BY TABLE WHEN SLIDE IS OUT - SHAMPOOED OUT TWICE - RETURNS; ENTRY DOOR HARD TO CLOSE - MUST BE SLAMMED TO CLOSE TIGHT; BORDER IN BATHROOM AND KITCHEN AREAS FALLING OFF; STAIN ON CURTAIN - PASSENGER SIDE - FRONT SHADE; 30 AMP PLUG SEPARATING FROM CORD ON LANDLINE FOR CAMPER - REPLACED WARRANTY. ENTRY DOOR RATTLES WHEN UNIT IS MOVING. ON 9-27-04, ON 2ND TRIP BACK TO SERVICE DEALER FOR REPAIR OF GENERATOR (NOT WORKING) ENGINE COMPARTMENT CAUGHT FIRE WHEN JACKS WERE BEING PUT DOWN DUE TO HYDRAULIC FLUID HITTING EXHAUST MANIFOLD FROM BROKEN HYDRAULIC LINE WHERE IT EXITS RACEWAY FOR HOSES BEHIND ENGINE. ON 10-8-04 , HEARD FROM SERVICE DEALER (SPITLER RV, MONTOURSVILLE, PA) THAT WINNEBAGO ACKNOWLEDGES SHARP EDGE OF RAIL CAUSED HOSE TO BE CUT AND AUTHORIZED SPITLERS TO DO NECESSARY REPAIRS. DO NOT FEEL THAT REPAIRS ARE WARRANTED AT THIS TIME DUE TO PROBLEMS AND FIRE ON UNIT. UNIT SHOULD BE REPLACED OR BOUGHT BACK AT ORIGINAL SALES PRICE & TRADE IN SHOULD BE REFUNDED IN CASH.
NHTSA complaint #10093842 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 5,738 milesNanticoke, PAFire
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
DROVE MOTORHOME FOR 1.25 HRS. TO DELIVER FOR REPAIR OF GENERATOR WHICH WAS NOT WORKING. UNIT APPROXIMATELY 8 MONTHS OLD - STILL UNDER WARRANTY. ON ARRIVAL AT DEALER, ATTEMPTED TO PUT DOWN HYDRAULIC JACKS. FIRE STARTED IN ENGINE COMPARTMENT AREA FROM LEAK ON HYDRAULIC LINE THAT BROKE DUE TO DESIGN DEFECT. THIS WAS CONFIRMED ON 10-5-04 BY INSURANCE ADJUSTER INSPECTOR. UNIT HAD PREVIOUS PROBLEMS WITH THE HYDRAULIC JACK SYSTEM, STARTING ON 4-30-04 TO PRESENT.
NHTSA complaint #10093652 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 5,738 milesNanticoke, PAFire
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
DROVE MOTORHOME FOR 1.25 HRS. TO DELIVER FOR REPAIR OF GENERATOR WHICH WAS NOT WORKING. UNIT APPROXIMATELY 8 MONTHS OLD - STILL UNDER WARRANTY. ON ARRIVAL AT DEALER, ATTEMPTED TO PUT DOWN HYDRAULIC JACKS. FIRE STARTED IN ENGINE COMPARTMENT AREA FROM LEAK ON HYDRAULIC LINE THAT BROKE DUE TO DESIGN DEFECT. THIS WAS CONFIRMED ON 10-5-04 BY INSURANCE ADJUSTER INSPECTOR. UNIT HAD PREVIOUS PROBLEMS WITH THE HYDRAULIC JACK SYSTEM, STARTING ON 4-30-04 TO PRESENT.
NHTSA complaint #10093652 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Salmon, ID
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER
NUMEROUS DEFECTS INVOLVING 2003 WINNEBAGO SIGHTSEER. *MR PASSENGER SIDE WINDSHIELD LEAK, DRIVER SIDE WINDSHIELD LEAK, SLIDE OUT LEAK BEHIND THE DRIVER SEAT, COMPARTMENT TO LEFT OF THE ENTRY DOOR LEAKED, UNDER THE SLID OUT LEAKED, DINING CUSHION WAS COMING APART, THE DRIVER'S SEAT NOT ALIGNED SQUARELY WITH THE STEERING WHEEL, CHASSIS A/C DIDN'T GET COLD, KITCHEN SINK HAD A CRACK, KITCHEN FAUCET LEAKED, OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE SENSOR DIDN'T WORK, THE LEAK IN THE BACK CORNER ON THE DRIVER;S SIDE, THE FRONT DRAPES WATER STAINED ON DELIVERY, ENTRY DOOR CONSTANTLY SQUEAKED, THE VENT FOR THE STOVE CONSTANTLY RATTLED, THE VINYL COMING OFF THE MOLDING TO THE SLIDE OUT FASCIA, THE TRIM ON THE REFRIGERATOR WAS POORLY ATTACHED, THE COLD BATH FAUCET HANDLED MARRED, THE WATER PUMP WAS NOISY IN THE BEDROOM AREA, THE WINDSHIELD WIPER WASHER HOSE HAD BROKEN, THE JACKS WERE NOT REPRESENTED WHEN THE UNIT WAS SOLD, FRONT ALIGNMENT WAS PERFORMED, AND LEVELS SENSORS APPEARED TO BE VERY INACCURATE. *SC
NHTSA complaint #10092757 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Salmon, ID
EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
NUMEROUS DEFECTS INVOLVING 2003 WINNEBAGO SIGHTSEER. *MR PASSENGER SIDE WINDSHIELD LEAK, DRIVER SIDE WINDSHIELD LEAK, SLIDE OUT LEAK BEHIND THE DRIVER SEAT, COMPARTMENT TO LEFT OF THE ENTRY DOOR LEAKED, UNDER THE SLID OUT LEAKED, DINING CUSHION WAS COMING APART, THE DRIVER'S SEAT NOT ALIGNED SQUARELY WITH THE STEERING WHEEL, CHASSIS A/C DIDN'T GET COLD, KITCHEN SINK HAD A CRACK, KITCHEN FAUCET LEAKED, OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE SENSOR DIDN'T WORK, THE LEAK IN THE BACK CORNER ON THE DRIVER;S SIDE, THE FRONT DRAPES WATER STAINED ON DELIVERY, ENTRY DOOR CONSTANTLY SQUEAKED, THE VENT FOR THE STOVE CONSTANTLY RATTLED, THE VINYL COMING OFF THE MOLDING TO THE SLIDE OUT FASCIA, THE TRIM ON THE REFRIGERATOR WAS POORLY ATTACHED, THE COLD BATH FAUCET HANDLED MARRED, THE WATER PUMP WAS NOISY IN THE BEDROOM AREA, THE WINDSHIELD WIPER WASHER HOSE HAD BROKEN, THE JACKS WERE NOT REPRESENTED WHEN THE UNIT WAS SOLD, FRONT ALIGNMENT WAS PERFORMED, AND LEVELS SENSORS APPEARED TO BE VERY INACCURATE. *SC
NHTSA complaint #10092757 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Salmon, ID
STRUCTURE
NUMEROUS DEFECTS INVOLVING 2003 WINNEBAGO SIGHTSEER. *MR PASSENGER SIDE WINDSHIELD LEAK, DRIVER SIDE WINDSHIELD LEAK, SLIDE OUT LEAK BEHIND THE DRIVER SEAT, COMPARTMENT TO LEFT OF THE ENTRY DOOR LEAKED, UNDER THE SLID OUT LEAKED, DINING CUSHION WAS COMING APART, THE DRIVER'S SEAT NOT ALIGNED SQUARELY WITH THE STEERING WHEEL, CHASSIS A/C DIDN'T GET COLD, KITCHEN SINK HAD A CRACK, KITCHEN FAUCET LEAKED, OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE SENSOR DIDN'T WORK, THE LEAK IN THE BACK CORNER ON THE DRIVER;S SIDE, THE FRONT DRAPES WATER STAINED ON DELIVERY, ENTRY DOOR CONSTANTLY SQUEAKED, THE VENT FOR THE STOVE CONSTANTLY RATTLED, THE VINYL COMING OFF THE MOLDING TO THE SLIDE OUT FASCIA, THE TRIM ON THE REFRIGERATOR WAS POORLY ATTACHED, THE COLD BATH FAUCET HANDLED MARRED, THE WATER PUMP WAS NOISY IN THE BEDROOM AREA, THE WINDSHIELD WIPER WASHER HOSE HAD BROKEN, THE JACKS WERE NOT REPRESENTED WHEN THE UNIT WAS SOLD, FRONT ALIGNMENT WAS PERFORMED, AND LEVELS SENSORS APPEARED TO BE VERY INACCURATE. *SC
NHTSA complaint #10092757 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 3,000 milesGazelle, CA
SUSPENSION
WHILE DRIVING OVER 50 MPH VEHICLE SWERVED AND BOUNCED ALL OVER THE HIGHWAY. DEALER EXAMINED THE VEHICLE, AND CLAIMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS HANDLING NORMALLY.
NHTSA complaint #10057942 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Charlottesville, VA
SUSPENSION
WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH STEERING WHEEL VIBRATED UNCONTROLLABLY. DRIVER WAS ABLE TO DRIVE THE MOTORHOME TO A DEALER FOR ANALYSIS, BUT THE MECHANIC WAS NOT ABLE TO RESOLVE THE PROBLEM.
NHTSA complaint #10049997 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.