Front End Issues with 2016 Winnebago Navion
From the moment I drove this new motorhome off the lot, I knew something wasn't quite right. The coach vibrated slightly and between 60 and 70 MPH, there was a tremor or shutter in the steering wheel.
Talked to Camping World about it. They, of course, referred me to Winnebago and Mercedes. Wouldn't touch it.
Winnebago Customer Service was first class. They said, "Take it to an alignment shop of your choice. Fix whatever needs to be fixed. We'll reimburse you in full."
Did that. The toe needed adjustment. But...when they applied the tire spin machine to check out the balance, they discovered a bearing issue in the left front wheel. I was invited back to the shop to see for myself. The right front wheel spun perfectly and when the machine was taken away, it went on and on very smoothly. When the started it on the left front, as it rev-ed up, you could hear that characteristic bearing whine. When the machine was taken away, the wheel slowed very quickly. 1611 miles on the odometer (1100 of which was the trip from the factory to the dealership) and a bearing problem.
The technicians at the alignment shop suggested I take it to Mercedes for warranty work. Called Mercedes. They said, "Oh no, this is not a chassis problem. Because Winnebago reinforces the suspension of the Sprinter 3500 to accommodate the extra weight. Called Winnebago. They said, "Oh no, this is a chassis problem. We modify suspension only, not the wheel bearings." Called back to Mercedes, they agreed. While I waited on the line, they called the local MB dealership and put me on the line with the service manager. Have an appointment for the warranty work.
We'll see how the saga continues. I have no complaints with customer service at both Winnebago and MB, they were great. Thought this song and dance might be helpful to others who might have danced or will be dancing to the same tune.
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