As RVers it’s hard to find peace and comfort today when we consider the financial instability of our economy and how it affects our retirement plans. Gone are the days when finding the time to get away was our major concern.
Now, finding the money is our biggest worry. How far can we travel without blowing the budget? This is a legitimate concern, but let me suggest that there are other issues that need to be higher priorities, requiring action on your part right now.
With a number of RV manufacturing companies closing their doors, the availability of factory (OEM) parts is dwindling, and parts are becoming more expensive and harder to find.
There are those of you who purchased a new RV within the last six months, that don’t have a usable warranty anymore — the maker of your RV has gone out of business or the dealer from whom you purchased your RV will no longer be reimbursed by the factory for performing warranty work. The dealer is already struggling to stay in business, so he isn’t going to pick up the tab. So if you‘re having problems with your new RV, guess who gets stuck with the bill?
The solution to this problem is relatively simple. Purchase a “Service Policy.”
Your dealer should have a list of companies and if not, Google it, but make sure the policy will cover you from bumper to bumper. It is a good insurance policy against major problems and expense.
Next, let’s assume that your RV is out of warranty (two or more years old) and that the manufacturer is also no longer in business. You have an accident with damage to the factory parts. With no manufacturer in business, there may not be any parts available. The parts must be custom made and are very expensive. The question is, will your insurance policy cover the repairs? Most insurance policies are written with the understanding that repair parts are available. What does your policy cover? Have you added systems or accessories that are not listed on your policy? Will they be covered? A good “Service Policy” covers the things that your RV insurance policy doesn’t.
A good “Service Policy” can help deal with the problems of today, and give you a break from some of the pressure. Maybe then, at least some of you RVers can rest in peace.
Final Touch Coach Works is located at 28532 Livingston Avenue in Valencia. For more information, please call 661-775-8375 and visit www.finaltouch-usa.com .