Why I Will No Longer Recommend Buying a 2013+ Winnebago RV

While replacing the 4th Winnebago roof in a month, Cassone's RV had a 2014 Itasca Suncruiser arrive with a roof issue. This is only 7 years-old and the roof completely failed. It did not fail from lack of maintenance of neglect. The adhesive bond between the foam and the wood substrate of the roof deck failed. This caused the roof to collapse into the ceiling and rub on the slides out.
Winnebago builds as an assembly line production so if this roof is bad chances are there are many with the same issue. Winnebago has also not been owning their recent roof failures in Class "C" motorhomes so I think it's likely a bad idea to purchase any Winnebago at this time.
I am not sure this roof is worth fixing but will keep you updated when I find out what will be done.
cassonesrv.com
3032 E Main St
Mesa, AZ 85213
480 357-5200

[@johnkphillips5581]

I’m glad someone’s not afraid to call them like they see them.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@Dave-hc6pp]

I’m really glad I watched this. We have been looking at exactly that model and year. You just saved us all kinds of aggravation.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@smacdiesel]

I had a 2015 vista that I bought new and stored indoors its whole life. I left it outside for only one Eastern Sierra summer in 2018. The roof side radius edge caved in at various spots, which I thought was really weird. Also, the drivers side sidewall delaminated and looked wavy. The ceiling vinyl in the rear bedroom started to separate at the seams. This video confirms that this is a widespread manufacturer issue concerning Winnebago roofs. Fortunately, I sold mine last year.

[@SpykersB]

Lol, you just confirmed my comment I just posted before I saw yours. Wow yours was really bad too- ugh.

[@camarogs1]

I hope you disclosed.

[@tony_r_pierce]

Wow, seven years old and the roof is done... And Winnebago made how many thousands of these? You could start a business that only does roof repairs and you would likely be busy for a long time. This is crazy. Always good to see videos showing problem areas like roofs, etc. It's fun to watch the "beautiful" and "high end" and "ahead of the game" and "drives so smooth" type of videos, but people have to know about the potential problems, too. Thanks for your videos.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@nonstophorizon]

So glad I convert and live in school buses. I'll never have a roof issue unless I manage to put the bus on the roof itself, and then, I think I'd have a bigger problem than the roof. Honestly, when I first went nomadic, I looked at RV's. The whole idea of the roof of an rv scares the heck out of me. I can rebuild a diesel engine sitting in a state or national park, but the idea of how easy it is for a roof to fail (and what it would take to fix it) terrifies me.

[@AZExpert]

Schoolies are my favorite :)

[@Wannabearisto]

"There's a joke in there somewhere" lol. Glad I always watch to the end.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@presenttotheready6365]

wow... "if only" every buyer had half the information you give. Thanks for another great video!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@Graygeezer]

I hate to say that now I’m glad the shutdown forced me out of buying a Class A long enough to watch these and other video channels that show what it’s really like to buy, own, and use one of these. I started watching this channel to get unbiased information about brands and models and I’ve come to realize that I cannot afford to buy a top-quality RV and I really won’t be able to afford to keep a less expensive one.

[@AZExpert]

I agree, not something to buy if money is tight. Everything they touch is expensive

[@rjw8316]

Agreed, I am in the market for a brand new motorhome and after seeing your video and others I definitely NOT be buying a Winnebago. Not even their new Journey. Thanks for all that you do.

[@danieltaylor3396]

If you think other RV manufacturers are better and don't also build some lemons, you'd be wrong.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! Get an inspection

[@CC-fx4nn]

If I was ever thinking about buying a Winnebago, this video took care of that!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@mykgrauss9872]

This is exactly why I would never, ever buy a Winnebago.
After seeing all the problems they have, they wouldn never gain my trust enough to buy one. Thank you again my friend for another great video!
Regards, Myk

[@AZExpert]

Well said!

[@RobertKeigher]

Good video! Thankfully, I have not had my Winnegbago Filon blow-off yet. I have kept the radius tuck sealed, but I have many areas where the glue failed and left bubbles. There are some things I can do, like adding solar panels to help hold the sheet of Filon down, but I would still have the bubbles in other areas, and I can't make the entire roof a solar panel. I purchased my Winnebago J35 new in 2007 and took good care of it. It still looks great, except for the roof. I am in the process of trying to find a shop to have the Filon replaced. Really sucks.

[@byronewhite]

Same issues in the 80 and 90's when I had a mobile rv repair service Winnebago was terrible on construction , even back then, and Warranty issues

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@dewholdingsllc1050]

Thanks for showing what is and is not acceptable. Keep showing what are quality RVs and what are not quality RVs

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@freetoroam7769]

This is making me love my fiberglass molded, two piece Bigfoot even more! It will last a lifetime.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@joewhitfield2252]

Those are cool. Expensive but maybe one day I’ll pick one up too

[@kelowna_bc]

THANK YOU for posting! This is unbelievable!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@Tony_in_AZ]

I have watched dozens of your videos James... there has been a roof problem trend in your videos on Winnebago products. You just point out the facts as they are seen.

[@AZExpert]

It seems to be a disturbingly common issue

[@philw7174]

Yikes. Sad to see that many people are going to have this problem. Happy trails!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks Phil and it really is

[@marlenepineda1079]

I would be afraid to walk on that roof. Good thing it didn't collapsed while you guys were walking up there.

[@krazzygranny7032]

the slides on the inside were the only thing keeping it from total collapse

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@dodobird-m8x]

Now I get why I see some later model motor homes for so cheap

[@kevinmelvin4610]

so happy im watching these videos , will defiantly be walking roof tomorrow 2008

[@ImpalamansGarage]

Watching you guys walk around up there on that wet roof gives me the willies. lol...... Hope those shoes are grippy !

[@AZExpert]

Been doing it for years, I'm part Mountain Goat

[@cwshumate914]

This is scary. I can't believe this ever made it past any kind of quality control.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@23thebull]

Quality control is not what it used to be. 😩

[@SpykersB]

😳 holy cow, 7 yrs old and that roof is just shot. I thought you guys were going to step and go through it, as it looks and sounds freakin scary. It’s actually shocking! Nobody is checking the actual roof build going on while manufacturing of these rv’s? Like they either don’t have someone qualified to be designing these things, or some manager is cutting corners and ignoring how it should be done. This sounds like this has been going on for a long time, and now it’s catching up to them. Yeah stay clear of purchasing any winnebago people! 🍻

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@jimfreeman7656]

Ouch! Now, I need to watch your older videos to see if there is any manufacture that still makes a quality product. These roof repair videos are traumatizing me.

[@Joe-rv3ei]

Not really Jim. Newmar was bought by Winnebago and the best being Tiffin was bought by the worse being Thor! Fleetwood has there own problems since being restarted by REV. Good luck!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@djc3949]

I gotta say 1 thing, you are a professional and know wat your talking about when it comes to RV repairs. But I know multiple people that have winnebagos and never had such problems and love them. I'm one them , I own a 1999 winnebago chieftain and that thing has never ever ever gave me no problem, thank God I've traveled everywhere with it and still running like a champ. I think this is more of bad manufacturer that rushed the product, im just saying . But Winnebagos haved been around so long and are one of the best RVs for your money. Thats just my opinion. Thanks great video

[@smacdiesel]

He only mentioned 2013 and later rigs.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@harrystone8847]

Oh man. That's bad. But, it's in the right hands.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@6582rg]

Please keep us informed on this one.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@hatenlebron]

Another great video, thanks. I have watched all of the Winnebago roof related videos, inspected my '14 Journey and maintained as suggested. Mine is in great shape and I still believe if it is inspected regularly and recaulked as needed it is a very good roof. In this case they clearly made some errors on installation, and that can happen to any manufacturer on occasion. That said, the WB roofs are not "easy" to maintain and repair and if you are not handy or comfortable with this sort of thing I would stay away.

[@AZExpert]

Correct, Thanks for watching!

[@badgerpa9]

Very educational video, thank you Sir.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@berniepokorski6608]

Please keep us updated on what Winnebago decides to do regarding the roof's warranty....

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@CozyLivingMachine]

I’d love to see what’s going on with that Bigfoot class C back there. I wish they still made them!

[@AZExpert]

I will see what I can do

[@ChristianTravelers]

You didn't seem to indicate why Winnebago years 2013 and newer roofs are not recommended. We have a 2012 Itasca so we have slid in under the tag on this one!

[@justme76437]

Everytime I watch your videos I'm so glad I dont have my Journey anymore winnebagos quality went in the toilet in the last 10 years I think

[@AZExpert]

You are very right. Thanks for watching!

[@calvinbarnes1721]

I think the slide is holding the roof up on that one, just wow.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@coreymerritt7742]

That’s pretty sad 😢 for that year of a coach I know Winnebago purchased grand design trailers I hope they don’t start cutting back like that I’m looking to purchase a new trailer soon

[@Canine_Cowboy]

Our 2019 Grand Design Imagine has given us lots of problems, most quality control related. Grand Design has been pretty good about working with us, however, their dealer network (at least in Missouri) has been horrible.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@LayloNewt]

Wow Winnebago needs to own up to some shoddy workmanship.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@kdub1666]

That's very disappointing but getting to be a Winnie feature. I wouldn't be surprised if Winnebago tried squawking that roof strike to disallow the roof warranty. A post-mortem assessment with photos should be enough evidence. I hope the owner gets both labor and materials reimbursement.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@tombeilman5579]

This makes my 05 Monaco roof look good

[@suebueti1905]

my 05 monaco is mint

[@AZExpert]

Awesome

[@williamlambert2865]

Please keep us updated on how Winnebago will handle this. Seems to be poor quality.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@Spad68]

Wow . So sad and frustrating. Imgine buying that thing and then this .

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@timjacobs9860]

we did one just like at at downey cal we just ordered new roll material and glue it to old roof made is really strong now fyi

[@AZExpert]

Interesting

[@stevenbrowningsr1144]

Wow! I will definitely start looking at my 2014 Forza a little closer now.

[@AZExpert]

Always inspect and catch problems early

[@arthurmickel2724]

Question? Are the Winnebago Class C/B+ roofs suspect as well? Looking at a 2015 on FORD Transit 5 cylinder diesel.

[@trentfollmer1462]

Question. Would thisbe the same roof construction as a 2013 Diesel Journey? Assuming the chassis and framing would completely different?

[@masterDarcy13]

James should become a buyer of RV's and advise clients , I reckon he would get 5K commission for every coach he sold .

[@AZExpert]

Haha I wouldn't sell them, I would have hard time lying to people.

[@masterDarcy13]

@@AZExpert I think that is why people would pay you 😀

[@rtjautomotive]

Crying shame.Hopefully Winnebago will step up.Probably not.Sad to say.Thanks for doing the vids.Helps me keep an eye on mine.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@CatFoodDraino]

If a motorhome of that size needed that entire roof replaced, anyone know what that would cost?

[@williamboyle8918]

$ 112.60

[@johnw3724]

$35 a foot is usually the rough budget for these sorts of jobs, if the foam s shot whatever winnebago charges for that on top.

[@AZExpert]

Many thousands of dollars

[@AZExpert]

Much more than this

[@thewiseguy3529]

Between $8,000 - $12,000 for a roof.

[@lukerediger8431]

That's painful. I've been binge watching your stuff because I have a 2016 21foot Outback Terrain that the rear and rear slide has delamination on... I can't see anywhere there could be water intrusion and the interior is dry as a bone with no stains... RV dealer says it's water damage... I'm wondering are the manufacturer's using water soluble glue or something? I just bought it last year and I feel like I've gotten a lemon and I owe a lot on it.
At least I'm confident after watching several hours of this that I can probably pull off the back fiberglass and re glue down the luan (and/or replace it) it's just one big surface. But I'm getting a bit choked that a 5 year old trailer that I bought defect free last year has an entire panel delaminated.
Should have just built my own I think, if I watch all your stuff and draw on my residential construction experience I should be able to make something serviceable out of this one at least.
Thanks for putting this content out, it's really educational!

[@AZExpert]

That is really awful--perhaps check with insurance? Thanks for watching!

[@garyag45]

Ouch, poor owner, now the fight begins. 😎🇺🇸

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@Riker-eq2yv]

Until I started following your channel I actually thought Winnabago was a top line product but it seems all you do is replace the roofs on them at such a early stage of the life the life of the motorhome. With that being said I purchased a new Nexus about a year ago and while not perfect at least the roof seems fine so far.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@usfwill]

So, we're in the market for our first class A (gasoline). Our thought is to go for something between 1998 and 2006 to keep it in budget - What brand would you recommend in the 30 to 37 foot range? Chances are good I will be seeking you out to fix things that come up hahaha! So what do you like to work on, or rather what ones are out there that you will most likely not have to work on?

[@marksricker]

Man I hope the Jayco Precept 36C doesn't have this problem.Just purchased a 2022

[@hillbillyrv]

Gotta love RVs

[@AZExpert]

OOF

[@chriskriaris4304]

Screw and plate down all seams. Its unfortunate but it will work. Then use eterna bond over all seams

[@AZExpert]

Thanks

[@thomasbrown8598]

Do you know what roof material is on the 2019 Winn Intent 29L, and which sealant type on roof ? thank you

[@crystalnutter610]

I feel for the owners.... so sad

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@DesertAdventuresinArizona]

Yikes! That is bad for sure. I’m resealing the radius on my 2015 Vista thanks to watching your videos! I’ve got one side done and ready to start the other soon. I also store it under an awning on my property.

[@AZExpert]

You can do it!

[@krazzygranny7032]

unfortunately i foresee a lot of issues like that popping up soon from RV built from 2020 on for a few more years as material shortages and bringing in new people working in the industry i see job security in your future

[@AZExpert]

I'd like a break lol

[@Joe-rv3ei]

Wow!!! Please let us know what caused this Winnebago roof to collapse. As a Winnebago owner this raises major concern. Terrible situation.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@mojo68mitch]

Yikes. They should be held accountable. So much poor qaulity out there, it’s truely sad.

[@AZExpert]

I agree

[@privateparty4900]

Anyone have thoughts on a ~2000-2008 Spartan chassis (or other 10K towing) pusher with the least water intrusion / roof-maintenance issues?

[@scottfield2289]

So your saying Winnebago still uses the same bonding as on this coach. they do have a 10 year warrantee correct.

[@AZExpert]

only 10 year on the fiberglass material, not the structure or workmanship of the roof

[@diesel_0669]

Great video

[@AZExpert]

Thanks!

[@joegallo6447]

When you have a long slide out, the frame will give in sooner than later. Had the same problem on a bus no names..

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@miltonbunn399]

Mr.az expert I have a 2015 crossroads zinger. I have had lots of problems but one I could use some advice the aluminum siding seems to have something eating it from the inside out it is coming through the paint. May I send you a few pictures and get your opinion of how to fix or match.
Thank very much for your time
Milton

[@DavidHBurkart]

I have no words for this one... well, good words anyway. Unbelievable. I guess that is a word.

[@AZExpert]

Unfortunate is also a word lol

[@DavidHBurkart]

@@AZExpert 😂😂

[@donthurman8189]

Do you find the Winnebago towable units roofs just as problematic as the motorhome RV roofs?

[@AZExpert]

yes

[@lorrieleaver2447]

After seeing this one and all your recent roof repairs/replacements I would never buy a Winnebago no matter what it looks like. It’s time to say goodbye to an iconic make of motorhomes and close Winnebago for good.

[@TheSteelerider]

You guys waking on a wet roof in sneakers makes me nervous!!! Be safe!

[@AZExpert]

lol Thanks for watching!

[@liamhenry8164]

Ok, what is the rough cost of this type of replacement?

[@dunweyweydum]

Ballpark...about $10,000

[@TheMinnow101]

@@dunweyweydum I bet it’s at least double that.

[@redc8783]

I honk WB needs to hire a driver, after they do a buy back, and send this unit back to them to replace 😁😁😁

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@CoolInOlympia]

Wow!!! The owners must be BUMMED!!!!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching

[@loydalexander154]

James Chad is stealing your show up there dancing like that. You better step it up ol buddy😅

[@hcrffi]

👍👍 If anyone can fix it, James can, and will be better than new. But, what's wrong with Winnebago?! I just hope they will leave Newmar alone and let Newmar do their own stuff. Well... that's a wishful thinking. I just saw a new Newmar Canyon Star on the Dealer's lot with the rubber seal of entry door coming off.

[@AZExpert]

Im not sure whats going on

[@marcischubert4494]

Wow, very interesting!

[@AZExpert]

I think so too! Thanks for watching!

[@TheBytecaster]

Total failure of the manufacturing and lack of Quality Control. Unfortunately this is what happens when the Industry is making tons of money and the demand increases to where they can't keep up.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@MountainSalsa]

ty

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@nursingninja]

Which company makes the best roofs on class A's today?

[@Thesaltymedic36]

That’s nuts. I wonder what happened 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@AZExpert]

Who knows? Thanks for watching!

[@lutomson3496]

I have an 09 View my roof is fine knock on wood but 09 was the lowest production due to the recession they have been cranking out volume and Im expecting you will see in a couple of years these new ones failing like this 14 did as they mass produce

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@scoobiedoo2517]

Damn Mr. Filon they just keep getting worse. Pretty sad!!! Chad has some dancing skills there!!!

[@AZExpert]

He is very skilled. Thanks for watching!

[@epena23]

Where can i get quotes from you guys. Need a recoat and seal

[@AZExpert]

Sorry not taking any new jobs

[@carmencolon3520]

😱 very scary 😳 situation. Which one is a better manufacturer?

[@2SelfBTrue]

I just watched your video of the Winnebago roof. wow,. I think I am going to have this problem. I have a 2016 Minnie Winnie, that creaks and pops and sounds like the sides and roof are detaching from the skin. I have owned it now sense April 2020.I think I am the 3rd owner. I cannot find any information on it. The roof seems OK when I am on it checking it out. BUT while inside the MH it makes so much noise creaking and groaning and popping that it wakes me in the night. This is my third MH. none of the others made any noise like this. Do you know if there is a way for me to see if it is delaminating? I had to fix a delaminated wall in my Four Winds. How do I find out what to do about this? Just a few concerns. Thank you for your video.

[@AZExpert]

I am very sorry to hear that. I don't know if there's a thread in a Winnebago forum but as I've seen 4 of these I have to believe there are many more.

[@2SelfBTrue]

@@AZExpert Thank you for your answer. Do you have any suggestions or can you give me any help in what to do with the company and how to fight when I start to have bigger problems, because I see them coming.

[@ronniecardy]

Guess Winnebago has been using cheaper glue is causing this. Bet it gets worse since it has been a change of hands ✋ I think! Just my luck we have a 2004 Winnebago Adventure 35 foot roof seams solid to me. I can't drive it cause of health problems now

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@Joe-rv3ei]

Was this RV parked outside during a snow storm? Seems like something heavy sunk the roof.

[@SpykersB]

If one snow storm did that, then all rv’s in canada should be shot too! Lol.

[@Joe-rv3ei]

@@SpykersB Understood but this situation has to have a cause. We need a follow-up on this.

[@Joe-rv3ei]

@@SpykersB Look it up Spyker. Heavy snow load is a no brainer! Hard to believe that this roof just failed on its own without having some kind of heavy load. Snow or people partying!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@Abeaness]

Are you (and Chad and team ) still doing RV repairs for customers in need? Just wondering as a similar named FB page is noting to be defunct due to the pandemic and I didn’t know if it was yours or coincidental in name…

[@chane7124]

How are you contacted for repair work ?

[@frostieswift4887]

Always wanted a Winnebago, oops not now

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@KRT045]

Wow! Crazy.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@patyagecic3075]

WOW, did they cancel your video? It won't open......

[@wesclay6347]

I thought that Itasca and WB were known for using Basement Ac Units? Black? Roof Units? That looks like a replacement?

[@AZExpert]

Basement A/Cs were no longer used around 2010

[@Fix-it-tony]

Last time I saw this it was cause by an owner who let his kids sit on the roof and watch a parade.

[@AZExpert]

Dumb move but it should support the weight of children

[@anthonylawlor9130]

It has nothing to do with the brand….Simple, roofs are roofs, one leak with trapped moisture will delaminate the glass roof. Bi yearly “professional “ inspection can head that off.
Remember these coaches are built by people, individuals with varying skills.
I believe the team leadership is what has failed, and to perfectly frank, they don’t care, current sales confirms that.
Never going to change, you have to be your own lifeguard at this party.

[@AZExpert]

After 20 plus years doing this--that is not necessarily the case. Thanks for watching!

[@madmanmitch5270]

That's a lot of damage!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@CAROLUSPRIMA]

Hey James, do you know that became of this issue? Thanks.

[@AZExpert]

yes, it's currently my next roof job unfortunately. :)

[@CAROLUSPRIMA]

@@AZExpert Ok. Thanks.

[@forestsquirrel9721]

Used wrong glue period.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@LS-en1jz]

kaiyang love the rv

[@AZExpert]

Thanks

[@Chris_In_Texas]

If ever a manufacturing defect, this is it! They should cover that under warranty, otherwise total the unit out.

[@AZExpert]

They don't seem to care

[@michellebarlondsmith6243]

Sad ... They use to be well thought off ....

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!