Winnebago Sightseer 2003

Model Sightseer made in 2003 by Winnebago got 14 consumer complains as well as 6 recalls. Consumer complaints with reference, among others things, to electrical system and equipment. There were some recalls concerningequipment and fuel system, gasoline.

Model 2003

Recalls


CampaignManufacturerManufacturing dateType# of units affectedDate Owner notified MfgRecall Initiated byManufacturers of recalled vehicles/productsReport Recieved DateRecord Creation DateRegulation Part NumberFMVSS Number
EQUIPMENT - RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
04V358000WINNEBAGO INDUSTRIES, INC.from 08/02/2002 to 08/29/2003V (Vehicle)5645MFRWINNEBAGO INDUSTRIES, INC.07/19/200407/20/2004
Defect SummaryOn certain motor homes equipped with samsung microwave ovens, models mr1031wb, mr1032bb, mr1033sb, mr1351wb, and mr1352bb, the microwaves were produced with a defective panel. an electrical short can occur between circuit patterns on the membrane panel, especially overlapped by a jumper or jump wire. this may cause the oven to activate without pressing any key pads.
Consequence SummaryAn electrical short can occur causing the oven to activate without pressing any key pads. this could result in excessive heat, smoke, or possibly a fire.
Corrective SummarySamsung will notify customers and repair the panel free of charge. in the meantime, consumers should unplug their microwave, if possible. if the consumer is unable to unplug the microwave, they should leave the door ajar until the panel is replaced. consumers should never use the microwave oven for storage or leave any towels, paper, cloth or other products in the microwave after use. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact samsung at 1-800-932-3837 or winnebago at 1-641-585-3535.
NotesCustomers can also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
03V243000WINNEBAGO INDUSTRIES, INC.from 03/27/2001 to 05/08/2003V (Vehicle)268407/10/2003MFRWINNEBAGO INDUSTRIES, INC.07/08/200307/14/2003
Defect SummaryOn certain motor homes, when the cooking range and furnace are operating at the same time, the flame on the cooking range could be forced downward over the burner or flame outage could occur. 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.
Consequence SummaryShould this occur, the flame may go out, and the liquid propane (lp) gas will continue to flow. this is a hazardous situation that could result in an explosion or fire.
Corrective SummaryDealers will install an air restrictor panel under the range. owner notification began july 10, 2003. owners should contact winnebago at 1-641-585-6939.
NotesWinnebago recall no. 89.customers can also contact the national highway traffic safety administration
03V405000WINNEBAGO INDUSTRIES, INC.from 05/01/2000 to 10/31/2003V (Vehicle)15337ODIWINNEBAGO INDUSTRIES, INC.10/16/200310/22/2003
Defect SummaryOn certain motor homes equipped with samsung microwave ovens, these units were produced with a defective panel. an electrical short can occur between circuit patterns on the membrane panel, especially overlapped by a jumper or jump wire. this may cause the oven to activate without pressing any key pads.
Consequence SummaryAn electrical short can occur causing the oven to activate without pressing any key pads. this could result in excessive heat, smoke, or possibly a fire.
Corrective SummarySamsung will notify customers and repair the panel free of charge. in the meantime, consumers should unplug their microwave, if possible. if the consumer is unable to unplug the microwave, they should leave the door ajar until the panel is replaced. consumers should never use the microwave oven for storage or leave any towels, paper, cloth or other products in the microwave after use. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact samsung at 800-932-3837 or winnebago at 641-585-3535.
NotesCustomers can also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE - DELIVERY - HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
04V609000WINNEBAGO INDUSTRIES, INC.from 08/06/2003 to 09/03/2004V (Vehicle)353801/07/2005MFRWINNEBAGO INDUSTRIES, INC.12/22/200412/28/2004
Defect SummaryOn certain motor homes built on a 20,700 gvwr or greater workhorse chassis, there may not be sufficient clearance in the area where the fuel line crosses the frame cross member.
Consequence SummaryWithout clearance, a condition could develop where the cross member may wear into the fuel line and a fuel leak may develop. fuel leakage, in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire.
Corrective SummaryDealers will repair these motor homes by providing clearance between the fuel line and frame cross member. the fuel line will be inspected and, if necessary, replaced. the recall began january 7, 2005. owners should contact winnebago at 1-800-537-1885.
NotesWinnebago recall no. 93. customers can also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - SWITCHES - BRAKE WARNING
03V060000WINNEBAGO INDUSTRIES, INC.from 08/01/1999 to 01/31/2003V (Vehicle)853204/25/2003MFRWINNEBAGO INDUSTRIES, INC.02/21/200302/25/2003571105 S5.3
Defect SummaryCertain motor home chassis fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 105,hydraulic and electric brake systems. the brake system warning indicator may not function as required by the standard.
Consequence SummaryIn some of the affected vehicles, the brake system warning indicator will not illuminate when the ignition is in the start position or for a low brake fluid condition, if the body builder relied solely upon ford's ivm compliance statement for the system warning indicator.
Corrective SummaryDealers will repair these vehicles. owner notification began april 25, 2003. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact winnebago at 1-641-585-3535.
NotesWinnebago recall no. 88.customers can also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
TIRES - TEMPORARY/EMERGENCY SPARE TIRE
03V049000WINNEBAGO INDUSTRIES, INC.from 01/31/2002 to 09/30/2002V (Vehicle)17603/07/2003MFRWINNEBAGO INDUSTRIES, INC.02/20/200302/24/2003
Defect SummaryOn certain model d30b motor homes built on a ford chassis, a plate, which is used to support the spare tire, was inadvertently left off a number of these motor homes.
Consequence SummaryWithout this additional support, the spare tire could fall off the vehicle resulting in property damage and possibly personal injury.
Corrective SummaryDealers will inspect the spare tire mount and, if necessary, install a new support plate. owner notification is expected to begin during march 2003. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact winnebago at 1-641-585-6939.
NotesWinnebago recall no. 87. customers can also contact the national highway traffic safety administration

Consumer Complaints


Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
07/06/2008373821
 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. *tr
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - WIRING
02/14/200457381802/14/2003
 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. *nm
EQUIPMENT
02/14/200457381802/14/2003
 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. *nm
EQUIPMENT - ELECTRICAL - AIR CONDITIONER
01/25/20042301/24/2004
 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 *jb
OTHER
02/14/200457381802/14/2003
 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. *nm
09/27/20045738502/14/2004
 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.*ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
09/27/20045738502/14/2004
 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.*ak
STEERING - LINKAGES - ARM - IDLER AND ATTACHMENT
07/02/200611744207/29/2003
 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. *jb
STRUCTURE
01/25/20042301/24/2004
 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 *jb
STRUCTURE - BODY - DOOR
02/14/200457381802/14/2003
 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. *nm
SUSPENSION
06/17/200330002
 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. *ak
12/03/20031
 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. *ak
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
09/01/2007101/01/2004
 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 *tr
VISIBILITY - WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER
01/25/20042301/24/2004
 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 *jb

Car dealers selling


StateCityZipNamePhone
PAMONTOURSVILLE17754SPITLERS RV570 368 1855
WAMARYSVILLE98270ROY ROBINSON CHEVROLET-SUBARU800 722 2868
WAPASCO99302RUSS DEAN509-545-9500