2021 FOREST RIVER CARDINAL Complaints and Recall Information

The 2021 FOREST RIVER CARDINAL has 2 complaints and 7 recalls filed with NHTSA. Owners most frequently report issues related to frame and structural integrity, including problems with slide-outs, doors opening during transport, and cracks or separation in panels. Other complaints include loose or broken screws, shifting furniture, and damage to interior components during travel.

Common Issues

• Doors and slide-outs malfunction. Doors and slide-outs open while the vehicle is in transit creating safety concerns.
• Structural cracks and separation. Cracks near the corners of upper deck slide openings and separation of interior or exterior panels compromise structural integrity.
• Excessive frame flex. Independent RV repair professionals confirmed excessive frame flex causing instability.
• Loose or broken screws. Lag screws in the upper deck come loose, bend, back out or break, affecting assembly stability.
• Interior damage during transport. Furniture moves excessively, rubs against walls, cabinets pull away, and trim pieces pop off or crack.
• Fiberglass fractures. Stress fractures develop in the fiberglass sections on the vehicle’s sides.
• Closet doors off-track. Closet doors consistently come off their tracks in the front bedroom area.
• Unusual noises. Clunking or popping sounds occur when starting, stopping, or turning the vehicle.
• Ceiling fan blade breakage. Ceiling fan blades frequently break during travel.
• Window treatments fall out. Tension rod curtains regularly drop out of window frames while in motion.

There are 7 recalls affecting various systems including electrical components, tires, spare tire carrier, furnace, and LPG systems. The recalls address safety risks such as fire hazards, tire belt separation, carbon monoxide intrusion, and improperly secured spare tire carriers. Repairs generally involve inspections, securing components, or replacements at no cost to owners.

Recalls

• LED backlight circuit board. (NHTSA 24V272000) Around 4,480 vehicles have an LED backlight circuit board in the cooktop that may overheat, increasing fire risk. Dealers will disconnect and terminate the wiring powering the LED backlights at no charge.
• Tire belt separation. (NHTSA 22V004000) About 1,164 vehicles are equipped with certain Sailun tires prone to belt separation, which could cause loss of vehicle control and crash risk. Dealers will inspect and replace affected tires for free.
• Spare tire carrier detachment. (NHTSA 21V145000) Involving 309 vehicles, the spare tire carrier may be installed incorrectly causing detachment risk that could lead to crash or injury. Dealers will secure the carrier at no charge.
• Generator compartment sealing. (NHTSA 21V988000) Affected 111 vehicles may have improperly sealed generator compartments allowing carbon monoxide to enter the interior, posing injury or fatality risk. Dealers will inspect and reseal the compartment for free.
• Furnace flue misalignment. (NHTSA 21V141000) Twenty-one vehicles may have furnace flue misalignment due to insufficient hold screws, risking exhaust leaks into the living space. Dealers will secure and realign the flue at no cost.
• Furnace fresh air intake sleeve. (NHTSA 20V655000) Sixty-nine vehicles have a furnace intake sleeve that is too short and improperly connected, risking carbon monoxide poisoning. Dealers will install a correct intake sleeve free of charge.

Owners dealing with repeated repairs related to structural defects, safety system malfunctions, or unresolved recalls may have protections under their state’s lemon law. Consulting with a consumer protection attorney could help clarify potential remedies.