How do Newmar coaches hold up?

[kcolivier]

I currently have a Bay Star Model 2901 gasser. I'm considering the big step up to a DP. My first inclination is to stay with Newmar, but I have also looked at other manufacturers. I'm impressed with the features and value pricing of the Tiffin Phaeton, expecially when compared to a Dutch Star or even a Ventana. So the question:

If you are a current or former Newmar DP owner, esp Ventana or Dutch Star, how has your coach held up after 3-5, or even 10 years? Do the drawers and door still operate properly? Are the floors, roof and exterior still in good condition? Does the exterior still sparkle?

If you are a former Tiffin owner, why did you switch to Newmar?

I know that from time to time problems come up, but I'm trying to get a sense in overal manufacturer reputation and quality. If you were in the market for an upgrade, would you consider another Newmar or consider other coaches as well?

Thanks for your feedback.

[deanjeep]

We have a 2000 MADP with 133,000 miles. Just finished interior upgrades including all new tile, new flat screens and new MCD shades. It's like a new coach. Always stored inside so exterior still sparkles. It's on a Sparton chassis which I prefer.

If I were going to trade today, which I wish I could afford, I would be looking at a late model Mountain Aire or Essex.

["007"]

Good answer Dean and thanks for the link.

[Mr_D]

We are on our second DSDP, ordered the present one in 2002. So far everything is working fine except for one sticking slide. All the awnings, slide covers and paint are original as is the interior, except for replacing the TV's with new LED or LCD flat panel ones.
Would I buy another? Yes if I had to, but this one is lasting just fine.
I should add that we joined a local chapter of Good Sam two years ago, everyone thought the rig was brand new (7 years old at the time). Since then I replaced all the tires and added Alcoa rims to match.

[Caluch]

We just sold a 2011 Tiffin Allegro Bus (36qsp) and purchased the 2112 Mountain Aire (4330). The Tiffn was a fine unit, and although we did not have it very long, I was quite pleased with the "fit 'n Finish" We sold because we wanted a better riding unit with a tag axle.

Having said that, IMHO the Mountain Aire is a more unique caoch. The tiffins are quite popular, and consequently are everywhere. That is both good and bad.... they simply are not "different" Both companies are noted for customer service, but I note that the Newmar is more robustly designed and assembled. Of course it has its annoying desighn features, but overall the quality of the unit and its furnishings seem to outshine the Tiffen.... (BTW, the comfort Drive feature may well be worth it all by itself...... Great! feature) This is one buyer's opinion, and I am sure you will get many other thoughts from Tiffin Owners. Good luck in whichever choice you make

[Ronnie Bledsoe 2006 Dutchstar 43']

My DS will be 6 years old in a month. We had the usual 1 st year problems all taken care of by Newmar. Exterior is excellent. I get complements almost everyday when we are out and about. 52 K miles on the ISL 400 and Spartan chassis. Spartan is an excellent chassis and superior support even after warranty. Interior of coach no problem. Cabinets are solid, slides with automatic locking feature are excellent, double door refer has more room than home fridge, king bed very comfortable and tile /carpet still in good shape. We do not use the Splendide washer/dryer very often but its ok when we do use . I have the Aqua Hot system and the 8 K generator which have performed well.
Feel free to PM me if you need more info.

[Dav5942]

Five years old and 60,000+ miles. If we had to replace it tomorrow would look for the exact same coach!

[AndrewC]

we own a 2004 KSDP 3904 model with 38K and love it it is our second newmar
the coach is built on a Spartan chassis with a Cummins engine
he is like new for a safety this summer we replace the caulking onthe joints
on the roof this year i will have to replace the tires they look like new but it is a2004 ???
Andre

[Iron Man]

We have friends with a 1994 Kountry Star. They keep it garaged when not in use. It looks like it just came from the factory. They have had it since 1995 and have not had any major issues with it.

[soricobob]

I should probably not say anything, my wife thinks it's a jinx, but I think that Newmar coaches hold up well. After the first two years of owning a new rig, the last four have been easy.

[DandS]

After two years with our coach, we are still pleased but have had a few small issues. I would definitley buy another Newmar.

[Renden]

At a Camping yesterday near Montreal, QC (leaving for Fort Myers this weekend), at my left was parked a Tiffin Zephyr; on my right, a Newmar Essex. My 2006 DSDP (no CD) did not look that bad in the middle

My impression is that Newmars are superior units, ride well, look great, are solid and I would not change for anything else....a Mountain Air, maybe ?

[Traps90]

While we are in the waiting stage, after a year of research we have decided that we want a Newmar DutchStar, we started with the Tiffen line namely the Phaeton or the Allegro Bus, but after a little research and being around there forum for a bit, I decided that there seemed to be to many problems for our liking,

So that brought us to the Winnebago and Newmar, with having fairly good reports about both companies.

My personal research has shown me that Newmar does seem to be one of the best built in this price range.

I think there all pretty good, but when it comes time to drop our money we;re opting for the Newmar Dutch Star
Good luck in your search


Trap

[mercerc44]

We have an 04 DSDP with 58,000 miles. A great coach. We think Newmar is a super company.