Full Time Living in an Airstream? | Everything is BREAKING! | Best Travel Trailer to Live in 2024

[@scottytullis9724]

Wow I’m glad y’all posted this saved me a lot of money

[@greetingsearthlingspluto6666]

I think a lot of their problem is children not being supervised. Yes, kids break things, but, on something this expensive. You have to instill discipline, he should know that being in the military. I also noticed it had dirty walls and ceiling, how did it get that bad in a short time? They should have done more research and read the owners manual and a lot of great videos on youtube. We use it all the time for things we are not sure of on our Airstream Globetrotter. A lot of appliances plugged in can kill battery time. Truck may not be enough to handle that trailer.

[@mikemartin2988]

Ever had an issue with the two I have owned for the last 6 years. It depends on how u use it and abuse it. It’s not meant to live in full time hence recreational vehicle if u live it in full time expect issues common sense. If u own a house it will have issues

[@lalapeluso]

Thank you. Went to look at new Airstreams at a dealer recently. Bathroom door handle came right off in my hand. 🤯

[@richbowie76]

I sobbed uncontrollably ! TEARS OF JOY !....when I sold my POS Airstream. I still get a little teary eyed thinking about it.

[@parkcitymacs]

We had an Airstream dealer tell us to buy a Lance after I started inspecting the construction of the airstream. After 100 nights in our Lance, flawless, perfect, we wrote that airstream dealer and thanked them so much. I was horrified by the new Airstreams when I looked at the welds, I measured the axels and there was over 1” difference between the axels, glass windows sucking heat out, rivets that were missing, aluminum seam gaps because the wrap barrier was pinched, screws missing, even the cabinets were not square to the floor …. It definitely is manufactured with Thor over site when you do a deep dive.

[@scottbloomer8696]

Thankyou for sharing this video. I have been researching RVs. Your positive attitude is encouraging. I would be very frustrated. Good luck with the warranty repairs.

[@katcrow9988]

This is my dream RV! Pottery Barn Airstream. BUT YOU ARE NOT THE FIRST one to show real issues with it. It breaks my heart - as I am slowly releasing that this is too much $$$$ for all these issues. THANK YOU FOR SHARING!!

[@JeremiahHexx]

IT'S NOT AN airstream anymore, they are made by THOR, Thor is bottom of the barrel in the RV industry, they ruined Airstreams

[@jcaaa5w837]

Crazy looks like it has been owned since 1980 I would have never known

[@gjcamping829]

Thor bought them but Airstream runs as its own entity. You will find issues with every RV and Airstream is no exception. I have a 2023 30 ft international and have put over 10,000 miles on it, One popped rivet, and two very minor repairs. I have owned 7 RVs in my 30 years of RVing including grand design and Newmar motor home. The Airstream is the best built RV we have had to date

[@markhester6377]

Thor has owned Airstream for 44 years and it's still run in the same town it was founded in. They own RV makers all over the world.

[@Squidman-eb4er]

They are very expensive. OMG. I can't believe it. They are made by Thor. Really. QC issues. I would have thrown a fit.

[@jeffreyengle2762]

How far back in time do I need to go to find a unit that is built like it should be …. Visited my local airstream dealer this last weekend looking at the 33 foot classic and I was very disappointed with the lack of quality in the building of the cabinetry. Pulled out drawer after drawer and saw nothing but staples and glue no dovetail joints no pocket screws, etc. very disappointing. How far back do I have to go to get to where these guys were actually built correctly?

[@wandrousvindella716]

My question : Have you gone back to Jackson Center, Ohio to get the issues taken care of ? We LOVE our 2018 Classic 33FB and would not have any other RV. There is no way I would ever buy any RV manufactured in 2020 or after, until all the stated issues by countless buyers were addressed. Great advice to buy an older model. Also RVs were never intended to be a full time residence, so every single time you head down the road there is a possibility of an "issue". I hope you can get all your issues addressed at the mother ship. Sweet family & we wish you the best getting everything resolved 🦩

[@RedsWhiteBlue]

As soon as work schedule allows, we can definitely try to get to Jackson Center! I think you're spot on with only buying pre-2020.

[@marksartain5772]

Ive seen this on the airstreams of late too. Also all the pottery barns have issues. Its like they were built to drive to one location and park for the rest of their Airstream lives.

[@RedsWhiteBlue]

'Park model" lol. Certainly made for the people who park it at their home to drive to the local campground two weekends a year.

[@Mudbug2000]

It’s just so amazing! Almost every single thing that could go wrong in an airstream happened to you? All of them? Amazing! You deserve all the clicks you get for sure😮

[@dbarbeaujr1]

My pottery barn is approaching a year old with several thousand miles on it and living in it full time. I’ve not had one major issue to speak of. I am however a seasoned RVer and If nothing else switching to an airstream has been a dream with its simplicity in comparison to a lot of the other high dollar brands.

[@RedsWhiteBlue]

I, too, am a seasoned RVer. Glad to hear your successes!

[@hollyobert]

We have a PB Airstream and it's awesome! We had ours for a year as well.

[@hawkeye31k]

Things only fall apart and break in an amateur RVer's trailer? Thanks for the laugh.

[@InuranusBrokoff]

​@@hawkeye31kthey're shills. 😂

[@jondrew55]

We're on our 3rd airstream. We've had RVs for over 30 years and we love them. That is not to say they do not have issues. The shower door seal for instance. A chronic problem and horrible design. I'm not exactly sure what your axel/brake issue was, but I think this may be something unique to your unit. We've been from Florida to Utah and back and have never had any issues. Maybe Alaska would be a bigger challenge. I assume the roads there can be worse than even Texas!. The electronic controls system in the Pottery Barn and the Classics are something I'd never get. That just looks like a disaster waiting to happen. And again, that's not just an Airstream issue, but any high end RV with a central electronic control system is a booby trap waiting to destroy your trip. It's sort of like Airstreams not having slide outs. That's one of the key reasons we love airstreams. Slide outs have always been a PIA for us. Sorry your experience has been so poor. You could possibly look at an Oliver (fiberglass, no rivets). I think they only go up to 25 feet and that might be a challenge with 2 kids. Right now we have a 2024 Flying Cloud Bunkhouse and have been very lucky with it. Certainly not issue free. No RV is .

[@airstreamtailsandtrails]

We made the same mistake when buying a 2021 Airstream Classic 30' during covid. We had never RV'ed before then either before full timing in it and you guys remind me of us! Everything broke for us. The hot water heater, glycol heater, COI electrical box, and more broke completely so we couldn't take showers, stay warm, or even use the lights. It broke so badly we had to rush to buy a house again. It was a mixture of us being newbies, the complicated technology in the Classic, and driving to high elevation in the winter. We traded it for a 16' Bambi and now a 27' Flying Cloud and would 100% recommend either of those models to anyone. 0 issues (and much cheaper). It helps that we know what we are doing now. I tell others to avoid the expensive and complicated Classic!

[@livinfreewithak]

I’m so sorry that happened to you!! Driving anywhere to colder weather can certainly cause many issues! I’ve RV’d on and off for about 20 years and have never had these issues before. Unfortunately, these issues are completely on the part of the manufacturer (except for the screens lol).

[@katandandy]

Certainly would trade "down" to get out of the C-zone. We are experienced RVers, but this quality caught us off guard

[@situated4]

As transitioning tent campers we also happened on the 16-foot Bambi in April of 2019 and purchased it new in Columbus. We sat in larger models, but realized it met our needs and is easy to tow and park. It is small, but in no way under-equipped if you take my meaning. Very glad it has very basic, proven technology inside as well. The main issue is that the dang water pump tends to shake the whole rig when engaged! Had it addressed once, and it's doing it again. I hate that. Also, if I load the doors too much with water or coffee creamer, etc., the small fridge has flown open and scattered groceries on the floor. Per the Airstream / Dometic Refrigerator internet boards, I have packed a roll of simple blue painters' tape to assist with that issue. 🙂

[@bigbandguru]

RV’s are all PROFITS. Airstream used to make a pretty good product. Now buyers need to see this…

[@westhavenor9513]

Thanks for the review! Admittedly, full-timing it and with little kids is rough on an RV, but still sounds like you've had way more than you're fair share of problems, especially that axle. Jeeze!

[@ElderRVer]

I must compliment you on your upbeat attitude with so many issues. I can tell that would not be my general disposition!! I am so sorry for you and hope eventually these issues can be sorted out.

[@livinfreewithak]

Thanks!!

[@katandandy]

I think we'll get it sorted out, eventually. The C-zone is another beast though lol

[@voltron5128]

How frustrating to spend top dollar then not be able to use it for 6 months after driving all that way to pick it up….you guys are super positive and patient….thanks for posting….now I know

[@jonstuartjon3]

Thank you for this video!

[@learnitfromwilliam]

The pottery barn is my wife’s dream. This is unacceptable! Just wow.

[@katandandy]

We were shocked as well! We still love the aesthetic of it (and the farmhouse sink is very nice to have in an rv!) but the amount of corners that were cut to save money on airstream’s part are shocking. Especially with the luxury price tag!

[@hollyobert]

Get it! We LOVE ours!

[@learnitfromwilliam]

@@hollyobert not at that price point...AS has no business selling their product for those prices. That said, we will probably find a nice pre-owned one at some point.

[@greetingsearthlingspluto6666]

If you take care of the Airstream it will take care of you. I don't think they are giving us the whole story. We have a Globetrotter and love it.

[@patrickrobichaux]

Wow we have a 2024 Flying Cloud (purchases Oct 2023) and have no where near the number of issues but I thought we had a lot. We just have popped interior rivets often, shower door issues, and one of our kitchen drawers came unlatched and broke on the floor (just staples holding the thing together...). To be fair, we also had random issues on previous travel trailers so we never felt our airstream was significantly annoying accepts rivets is uniquely airstream. I think the trend I've seen with major issues is the higher trim levels. The basic models without fancy upgrades seem to be more sturdy. We still love ours. If you don't sell it, I would take it back to the mothership and see if they can sort through all the issues. Airstream is kind of like Tesla's. Low initial quality but once all the kinks get fixed they're great.

[@tubular2times]

Love that you are willing to point out areas that need to be fixed IMMEDIATELY. Great brands can fall dramatically by changing the focus from quality to chasing to pad profit. Dell, Palm, Sunbeam GM and others were AT ONE TIME the best in quality - and through pride and arrogance fell from their lofty positions to become a shell of thier former selves - and in some cases went out of business. The honest and clear feedback you provided show the challenges of real-life LIVING (family, kids) in designs that look good in a showroom - but have not been road tested. ... Perhaps all Airstream Execs should have to live for 3 months in their products with kids to see for themselves. 🤔💭

[@ourlist8661]

Stupid question,,, since you are active duty military why aren’t you staying on base at a “FamCamp”? Almost all military bases have a designated rv camping with all types of hookup options. Also any aren’t you shopping at the commissary? Cheaper prices and no sale tax.

[@naturegirlangie]

I’ve got the same one and many of the same issues. Still love it though.

[@jdhdale]

You have a nice PB AS. You have a Nice Tundra. I had rivets pop same area. The cause is your weight distribution. Your set up is way too tight. I’m guessing your PB is over loaded as well, that’s only way you’d break axels, which would also roll into the WD system and rivets piping. Have you put it on cat scales? Have you put the tong jack on a scale. Your hitch weight is like 950 lbs on the PB That tundra is rated to tow 11,000 +- and if I think back to mine force v8 trd pro. I had a cargo capacity of around 1800lbs. I’m guessing your pin weight is pushing 1,100 your a big dude so say 215??1315lbs with just you and the hitch, nothing else and no one else. Whe. We west from the 23’ AS to a 30. I pulled that empty AS30 home with the tundra. lol. 55mph and it was a HANDFUL. Way too much trailer for that little truck. Friend you need a f250/chev2500 minimum for your set up. I know I know. You love that tundra, but she’s not the right vehicle at all. While the change will and WD loosening will solve some of your issues, it won’t solve all. Your fridge doors need to be shimed, or the fridge needs to be. I’ve got no answer for you on the oven, never had issues. The screens and curtains, yea that’s going to be rough. The roller shades while not as nice looking, can handle rougher treatments.

[@MissMustang98]

I was about to ask similar questions...is this your first time living in an RV full-time? how much can your tow vehicle handle (what's the tongue weight as well)? How much stuff do you have in the Airstream (is it overloaded)? do you have sway bars installed to help reduce the shimmy down the road? How careful are you and the kids on the interior fit and finishes? I've lived in my Airstream and I've AirBnBd it when I'm not living in it. People who have never stayed in an RV before are super rough on them, expecting everything to be built like and work like a traditional home.

[@greetingsearthlingspluto6666]

@@MissMustang98 Sounds like unsupervised kids too me, but, what do I know.

[@aswinos6077]

To me the battery issue sounds a bit complicated. If as you said your inverter is always on, it might be no wonder that your charger cannot charge your batteries fully because your inverter is running and using the current to power the rig. Your inverter should always be off when connected to shore power. At this point if they are not lithium, your batts may be toast but you can have them tested.

[@Alohakoa59]

I wondered the same with all the light on during the video, including the outside door light. Boondockers learn ways to conserve or buy bigger batteries and solar😅

[@stanmoore1943]

Agreed, if the inverter is left on, it will pull 2-3 amps all the time even though you have no AC load. It is called parasitic load. We also found out that the master battery kill switch does not kill the inverter. It stays connected to the battery and if left on will drain your batteries. We found this out on our 25’ Globetrotter.

[@Torahliving21]

I have the same refrigerated same problem, until my husband check the rubber around, make sure is in place .

[@craig-n1f]

I’m happy with my new 25’ flying cloud 😊

[@rsmith5504]

If you have the opportunity, I would suggest traveling to Jackson Center Ohio to the factory service center. Making an appointment would be your best bet and schedule your time so you can get everything fixed under warranty. We have had great luck in getting our rig serviced by them…..just something to consider😁. Best of luck.

[@katandandy]

We just might do that :) Thanks

[@livinfreewithak]

How much time did that take, accounting for travel and time in service? Also, roughly how far did you have to travel to Jackson center?

[@rsmith5504]

We travel in our Airstream full time, so when planning to visit Jackson Center, we schedule our travels slowly working our way to JC. So, no matter where we are in the country, we eventually land at Jackson Center. During this time, we communicate with the service center directly letting them know what issues we have so they can order the parts necessary to fix our rig. Each time we visit, we plan on leaving the rig for approximately 2 weeks, depending on what needs to be repaired. Depending on what is being worked on, you may have the option of staying in your rig at the Terraport. The service guys will pick up your rig each morning and return it at the end of the day. Hope this offers a little insight as to the general repair process. Good luck.

[@heiditaylor5896]

We have a cadcade travel trailer and although we do have things breaking it is nothing like you guys are experiencing. That's crazy to have that many issues in a short amount of time. The seals I think are an issue with all , because we have that problem with our screen door. Some of the hardware inside ours is also coming apart but with kids I think they help lol ours are 10 and 3 and they are not gentle when inside the camper. We have a broken sink we need to replace in the kitchen area our outside speaker is coming off, and occasionally we have trouble with the heat kicking on but that is because the propane tank we had was having issues. We learned what we lile and dislike and what to look for in the next one we get.

[@RedsWhiteBlue]

I've heard great things about Cascades! happy RVing!! :)

[@itsjim2875]

Whew - glad I saw this...I'd been thinking of getting one.

[@Lacraw5]

If you purchased your PotteryBarn new, it sounds like the dealership needs to make repairs for you under warranty. We live close to Jackson Center, and have found the service department top notch. We have had some things fixed at no charge to us. We love our airstream 25 foot flying cloud. It has been well worth the money. We definitely enjoy traveling in it.

[@Mudbug2000]

I agree with you. That’s why they hold their value. And I’m fixing to buy one and won’t look back. It’s the rivets! 😎

[@vfr417able]

Happy I seen this I was getting ready to purchase a 25 footer Now I know how to deal if I do decide to get one Have to price in all the modifications and repairs I'll have to do myself I built aircraft fuselages at a time in my life So I can do rivets and upgrade aluminium work as well as fix electrical things

[@johnharper2016]

Popping rivets? You need to look at tire pressure and hitch set up. I suggest you look at a flying cloud. It is the "base" model so to speak. You have several signs of your hitch set up bring to stiff, to much WD tension and to much tire pressure. Pay a trip to the CAT Scales and do a 3 pass weigh in. Learn how to read the axle weight and correctly set up your hitch and the proper tire pressure based on axle weights.

[@airstreamtailsandtrails]

My new WD hitch came loose from the dealership just last weekend due to a rushed install by them. I agree there's something misconfigured with their WDH. Mine was already causing front end separation after one quick trip. Mine luckily was fixable with lowering the bar height and tightening the WDH, but the damage to the trailer is done already. I knew better than to trust the dealership installing it. I'd love to see a photo or video of their weight distribution hitch setup so that maybe we can help.

[@livinfreewithak]

So, actually towing with a one ton truck and no WDH. Not necessary for towing with a one ton, as the trailer only weighs 7500 fully loaded. 6500lbs empty and 7500lbs full (including tanks and other AS gear). Very familiar with scales, axle weights, tire pressure, etc. Unfortunately, there’s no compensating for cheap parts/components. I’m very competent at operating a truck and RV, this is simply low quality craftsmanship.

[@katandandy]

Hey John! Definitely not a stiff hitch setup. Using a regular ole 2-5/16" ball, trailer level from the front to the back. I've towed a trailer or two.... or a few hundred... in my day ;)

[@2021-j2d]

Excellent advice that makes a world of difference before hitting the road. I guess I assumed every serious or long time RVer would do this in advance.

[@livinfreewithak]

@@2021-j2d if you read the comments, none of what was mentioned was a problem. Serious RVers are absolutely aware of their tire pressure and weight.

[@jeremythebeer8609]

Jesus... My wife's retirement dream was to get an Airstream (and I was willing to do it). On a personal note from a random KZbinr... Great job working as a couple! Stay happy. All the best to your family.

[@ArthriticAngler]

Same issues on airstream forums. Beautiful shell, cost cutting on frame and interior. Standard Thor appliances

[@TheIceStormof1906]

@coastal cabin. I have a ‘23 GT 27FB. Most of what yours describing is small. Regarding the rivets, we’ve not had one pop…lower your tire pressure to 60PSI. Regarding the fridge, the issue is the weight in your doors. Regarding the brakes, that sucks!!! Did Airstream reimburse you for downtime? Lately, Airstreams are more delicate and Airstream themselves say not to be lived in full time

[@katandandy]

Airstream did not reimburse for downtime, hotels while waiting, or anything. Strict policy, according to the director of owner relations. I only got the brakes fixed once I figured out the email format of Airstream and CC'd the CEO, COO, CFO and National Director of Sales. Only then was owner relations willing to cooperate with repairs. The dealers know that the refirgerator doors on this fridge have a weak bracket. Our doors have butter, small condiments and other things in there that do not have much weight. One dealer told us they see these issues constantly due to the weak bottom bracket. Definitely will try lowering the tire pressure to 80psi. I never understood why each Airstream dealer always airs them up to 80 when we go in for service.

[@TheIceStormof1906]

@@katandandy 80PSI is for liability and stability purposes. Many towing Airstreams overpack and exceed limits. The tire manufacturer has their -own recommendations on their load charts. They recommend psi @ 55-60 based on loads. Keep in mind, once warm, the PSI increases by 7-10 psi dependent on outside air temps. When we lowered PSI, nothing moved or broke inside…also make sure your WDH bar is not rated for over 1100pounds of tongue weight. Anything over could be adding flex to your chassis

[@TheIceStormof1906]

@@katandandy Also, every state has their own lemon policies that is dependent on where it’s registered. Not many know about trailer lemon policies. You can find yours online. Good luck. The first year of ownership for us was tough. Constant repairs. It doesn’t help that it was a covid build when quality tanks due to supply/labor shortages and excess demand. Now, everything has been addressed. I’ve heard Airstream quality is expected to go back up. The Airstream customer service has been helpful in getting things approved that the Dealer didnt address. You should correspond with your service writer and CC Airstream corporate on important issues. Lastly, since you full time, you may want to try a different dealer. The service techs in the RV industry are not the best IMO. My local dealer tech expertise has been the Achilles heel.

[@CANADIANWARRIOR-il6rt]

So lower your tire pressure outside of manufacture rating to be safe??? Do you now see how STOOOPID this statement is???

[@TheIceStormof1906]

@@CANADIANWARRIOR-il6rtdo you know how stupid you sound??? The manufacturer of a car will NEVER be responsible for the load ratings a tire manufacturer publishes!!! It’s a stated fact, well know that the manufacturer of the tire bears responsibility of the load rating. That’s why the tire manufacturer publishes the psi ratings based on the loads you will be carrying!! The trailer manufacturer does NOT MAKE the TIRES! Again, as stated in Airstreams own literature, they say, the PSI rating is based on towing stability but to reference the tire manufacturer recommended PSIs. Most airstream owners used tow vehicles at their limits. So increasing the tires to max aided tow stability. They also did this as many trailers sit for a long time prior to being sold. If you owed a Airstream, you’d know this! So again, to those thousands of airstream owners, they will tell you, lower the psi to under 65, and they stop having issues with rivets and cabinet/interior item damages. So again, if will tell you, within my 1st tow of owning an Airstream, I had bubbles on all four tires due to excessive psi. Goodyear demanded Airstream replace all four tires. Which airstream did immediately and the. Told me follow the manufacturer psi. By the way, the psi of 80 comes from the pre delivery checklist. Not the recommended spec. So again. Do your own research

[@BSnydr]

Impressive! What does Airstream repair service say or have done about these issues? Do you think Airstream realizes how many future customers will have lost from this one video? Thanks for sharing. I was looking online to figure out what model Airstream I was going to buy. I will take your advice and look elsewhere.

[@antoninzepoli6653]

Thanks for sharing this unfortunate list of issues. I don't imagine things will improve with quality. You've saved me a lot of time and money. Airstream is off of my list or RV's.

[@Letizia4813]

Thanks for the honest video. Went to a AS dealer last weekend and I asked what typically breaks on them and the salesperson said nothing, they last forever. I think if they were around half the price they'd probably be a decent deal. Just another American company selling poor quality and living off of name recognition, Ford, Harley Davidson, Grady White, Mercury outboards...

[@stevehutton6055]

wow thanks great to know

[@andrescharria2997]

Great review

[@brianpowers3814]

Really sorry about your Airstream experience. We on the other hand have a 2019 International Airstream and have had very little maintenance issues. All that I have fixed on my own.

[@noelbaca3028]

Great video. Looks like you got a lemon. Hope warranty covers everything

[@alvaroorozco7895]

Thank you guys, you did a fantastic review

[@kcwerv]

A trip to the factory service center will take care of your issues. I can't imagine have little toddlers in ours. They would rip it apart based on my memories of having a kid.

[@SAGUY1971]

Man, it's a shame to hear this. I have a 2012 and with annual preventative maintenance, I've not had any issues . Yes one or two popped rivets here and there and the Dometic fridge door latch breaking (it was plastic) and I found a 3D Printed replacement one online, that's been about it. Some parts do wear out , like the knife valve on the sewer tank outlets and Ive been able to replace those myself . I would be wary of Airstream dealerships though and some of the parts they are using . I let them replace my tires (over 6yrs old) and during the first trip noticed that the "brand new tire" had a huge slit in it which was delaminating . They do upcharge on everything so if you are up to doing some DIY, it's easy to order parts online from the best priced manufacturer and install them oneself. Those broken lights in your trailer can easily be ordered and replaced with just basic tools. In airstreams defense, travel trailers were never designed to be lived in Full time as a home and in the manual it specifically states that and the materials used, are not as hardy as those used for aTiny home for instance. I def agree that quality materials and workmanship have taken a nosedive and the older models were constructed a lot tougher and have stood the test of time. Enjoy your journeys and hope the snags can all be sorted out by the dealership .

[@RedsWhiteBlue]

Should be able to get through two months of full time living. Didn't make it 500 miles down the road, though. I certainly agree about sourcing your own parts instead of letting dealers provide their own.

[@sidabraham7131]

The only Airstream RV, of any model that's not crappy are the vintage ones. Of course, those were remodeled by handy people with excellent craftsmanship. BUYER BEWARE 😮

[@garygarant2582]

We bought a 2005 did 1500 k miles hit 37 states in five mounts and then lived in it for six years while I worked on our house. I feel it more than paid for it self. I am 76 now and still go out in it just to remember,had my share of problems but all fixable. Would do it again .

[@chrisdakins2010]

The Land Rover of RV’s hey? Super expensive and looks great until you use it!

[@edrodrigues3333]

You’re not the only victim, quality has gone down industry wide and you can blame COVID. Sales went through the roof during it and they were banging out as many as they could taking short cuts. Unfortunately when things calmed down they didn’t go back to building a quality product and is why you’re seeing their lots full of unsold RV’s.

[@djboogieboy]

Is there a lemon law for trailers?

[@wonderland-vz9cb]

Airstreams are great to look at but to actually use them is another story. I would buy one and use it as an office.

[@LadyErnst]

I’m noticing a pattern. The most videos I’ve seen of people not liking their airstreams are the ones who purchased the pottery barn edition.

[@marksartain5772]

This nightmare sounds like a Lemon Law that would allow you a full money back.

[@RedsWhiteBlue]

Lemon law suits are very hard to win. I contacted a lawyer in the state we bought this in, and he said the judges won't rule against the manufacturer, because of conflict of interest involving PAC funds. Hear-say, but that was the attorney's advice.

[@Steve-yo4ld]

Lemon Laws cover automobiles, not RVs!

[@momma2cavalierssf]

I’m so sad to hear all of these issues (not what you’d expect from an Airstream or this price point).

[@Alohakoa59]

Who has not bought a brand of tv and not had a series of issues with it? The door lock is a known issue that always existed. I wonder if the brake issue was an adjustment issue in your TV? Rivets are an easy fix, check your tire pressure. I’ll bet this AS is still on the road in 20yrs. I think the frustration for me would have been the price tag🤦🏼‍♂️

[@The1833FarmhouseFerals]

170k for all those issues?

[@timolson7005]

i have NEVER had a snap lighter that worked ever.. i swear they are for show.. on several brands of trailer, including a airstream they never ever never work.. use a lighter

[@melesaoshea8719]

Sorry to hear this.

[@katandandy]

Expensive bummer! Haha but we’re making the best of it. Still feel blessed to have it 👍🏼

[@Steve-yo4ld]

Wow, absolutely unbelievable! And I had been seriously considering an Airstream! Sad, for the price, you'd think QC would be better!✌️

[@LKESBO]

I totally 💯 well said loved this video 👍👍👍👍 They lie when they say bullshit talk about the quality etc etc

[@Elgin2Strathmann]

Such a beautiful travel trailer and was my first choice. But due to so many issues reported by so many people since Thor took over unfortunately I’ll be looking at an Escape or Oliver. They are not as pretty and not as spacious but top quality, travel trailers.

[@bruceforbes2008]

Friend told me yesterday that sells rv’s that since 2010 airstream has been importing parts from korea. They say they are made in America when in fact they are just assembled in America. Most of the parts are from elsewhere. MAGA!

[@Jeremy-r4f]

New Airstreams have serious quality control issues. I have a 2012 23' and have not had near the issues. Those challenges would be very tough when trying to live full-time.

[@Del15815]

Is the Pottery Barn edition ,it could be the reason for the poor craftsmanship and not the usual Airstream reliability.😢

[@g-man2045]

I agree make an appointment at Jackson Center Factory service. Best way would be to call or email. Also suggest 65 psi in tires and see if you slow down on popping rivets. I agree they dont build them like they use to.

[@RedsWhiteBlue]

If a person is retired, taking a week or two to travel to Ohio for repairs would be doable. It's interesting to me that many Airstreamers just go to Ohio whenever they have issues.

[@JIMMY-l7j]

trade it in for a Oliver?

[@johncrissey3496]

All AS require a level of maintenance and understanding by the owners. You obviously purchased the airstream from a terrible dealership. Your batteries are fried! You cannot let them ever go below 30%. Pottery Barn is a fas

[@Wanderingsomewhere145]

Buy used from a knowledgeable RVer who has maintenance records to share. They’ll tell you all about the bugs they worked out.

[@stevediehlman]

Seems like a lot of your troubles lie with household fixtures not intended for travel use. Not all, but more than there should be.

[@bobbie2414]

The Pottery Barn was a bad decision, but I do love my Airstream Bambi.

[@dandee7303]

Did they really spend $180,000 on that ?

[@EricFDrums]

I would retain a lemon law attorney and I would sue airstream and make them give you a replacement

[@johnharper2016]

Having owned 2 Airstreams from new Maybe I can help. If your popping a lot of rivits and stuff is falling off the walls your towing setup is wrong. To stiff. Tire pressure to high? Incorrect WD adjustment. So .... suggestion.....take a look at a Flying Cloud 30' Bunk model. Way less frew frew than your pottery barn model. Less complicated. Fewer items to break. My experience with both of our Airstreams, a 2017 International and now a 2019 Flying Cloud has been excellent.

[@Boulder836]

Our brand new 2021 30’ Classic was very poor quality. Kept it a year and got rid of it. Constant problems requiring dealer repairs. Not worth the hassle. Airstream Classic RVs look great, but a few trips will really expose the cheap quality and poor construction.

[@jh1982a]

thanks for saving me money

[@stevemurray2737]

Yikes! Wait until you hit a Hail Storm! Kryptonite for Airstream and an Expensive Nightmare to fix. Go Fiberglass next time. Airstream is Thor and Thor wants their money for their Stockholders.

[@RedsWhiteBlue]

Thor is bad news! So is hail...

[@oysterbay9]

so sad to hear, such a good vid

[@billkrill4656]

170K ? Ugh

[@katandandy]

Purportedly the price of quality ;)

[@alicee5270]

We just bought a Safari Alto 2414 from Canada. No ugly curtains! And its totally black out when you close the blinds. The USA is making crap nowadays and that's why we went with a Canadian company.

[@EricFDrums]

How the F is that possible? My god I thought airstream were so expensive since they were super well built? That’s really terrible to see.

[@chiplarkin4069]

It’s not just Thor. We looked at a brand new $500,000 Newmars last week. The cabinetry was terrible. We walked in, looked, and walked out of three Newmars. All the same. Terrible quality.

[@cynthialahti-wong1800]

Another family bought an airstream van, super expensive , and it's been in the shop 11 out of 12 months!! Everything breaks, bends, lock issues also. I'd never buy one!!!

[@CLepper61]

This is so sad back in the 60s 70s these were the top line. So sad not now looks like.

[@philochristos]

That's a bummer.

[@pres6595]

light the stove pilot light with a lighter

[@katandandy]

Good idea! Thanks

[@jlokanis]

@@katandandy Not sure about that brand of oven on an Airstream, but in our Lance, the oven did not have an electric igniter even though the burners did. I remember trying to light it with the clicker for quite some time before reading the manual and learning that it had to be manually lit. Kinda annoying and agree it is not a very useful appliance. Our next RV will will skip the oven and just get a convection microwave.

[@Jmramirez427]

I hate to say it but this is user error. Not the trailer. =/

[@2021-j2d]

Ha, ha, ha, not to laugh at your misfortune but I can attest to the other side of the coin being that we have traveled extensively over the the last 35 years in three different Airstreams without a third of the damage or repairs you’ve had with your one. That said we’ve never thought of the Airstream as being as durable as our sticks & bricks home. It is after all a home on wheels so every time you move one it’s like an earthquake inside. Simply the nature of what it is. I suppose we might treat ours more gingerly although I wouldn’t say too much so bc if we had to be overly cautious we’d never have traveled for 35+ years. Of course the up side and the reason we stayed with Airstream is that when we sold our first one a 1978 we had a bidding war in our home driveway with two buyers who each really wanted it even though it was older than 10 years at the time. We actually made slightly more on that sale than we’d originally paid for it back then. So took that cash and bought the second Airstream, traveled in it with our 3 children for 18 years before selling that one and purchased our 3rd and smallest at 25’ since our family had grown and are not traveling with us these days. So as a word of encouragement keep a positive outlook as it seems you got a lemon; it happens. I hope you either go back to sticks & bricks or purchase another RV and have a way better experience in the future. Never give up on the adventure though.

[@MrHero1976]

Made in America... so glad I didn't take the plunge and buy an airstream, not the first video I've seen with qc issues

[@j.andrewwrinkle2172]

One word. Oliver.

[@billkrill4656]

Agreed…….for now

[@katandandy]

We like the apparent quality of Oliver, but it's a much narrower RV and their largest wouldn't quite be big enough for four people and two dogs. However, I think that's a great choice for smaller families!

[@katandandy]

Hopefully they stick with good quality :)

[@gdt5430]

Oliver is not even close to the Airstream. Oliver is a Boat with wheels and much smaller and narrower as if Airstream wasn't narrow enough. Oliver is for a single person and maybe a dog, for the price they want is a joke.

[@j.andrewwrinkle2172]

@@gdt5430 …in your opinion. I can guarantee you you do not own an Oliver. But you are right, they’re not even close. I owned an Airstream for two years. Of the two years, it spent a year and a half in the shop. I’ve owned my Oliver for seven years. It’s never been in the shop. Let me repeat that, sir. My Oliver has never been in the shop. My wife and I, as well as our small dog, have plenty of room for a long weekend or extended stay. Sometimes you do not get what you pay for. But other times you do. My Oliver has been worth every excessive dime I have spent on her. End of conversation, my friend.

[@ericstevenson2474]

The Flying Cloud is better value and more reliable, less expensive electronics and accessories to maintain

[@Hawk89gt]

No way I would have gotten the Pottery Barn version. It was a ridiculously overpriced version of an already expensive camper.

[@PatriotSteve]

turn the music up loader and talk softer

[@martymiller9802]

Wow.

[@danielsmyth2646]

Thor is doing the same thing to Jayco! So disappointing. There time will come!!!

[@momma2cavalierssf]

Oh NO!!!

[@markweber713]

So the issue with your Lipo batteries is you ran them too low and you have permanently damaged them. Lipo batteries are not designed to be run all the way down if you had done a walk around with your trailer, they probably would’ve explained. It seems to me like you picked up your trailer and just bolted. in addition, you should check your brake area with a temperature gun 25 miles down the road and at least twice more in the first 100 miles and also tighten your Lugnuts. You had to gain set and melted the brake and seized the tire again something that I can almost guarantee was your fault. As far as the item I’m guessing your child broke the screen curtains, etc. it’s a guess but probably a pretty good one raised two children. I know how mischievous they can be. As far as the rivets is every Airstream as door, this is well known throughout the community. Experience is a brutal teacher because it gives the test first and the lesson later, which is what you have been going through with your Airstream.

[@brianf9615]

The Airstream motor homes are even worse. If I were you I would fix it and sell it for whatever I could get and cut my losses.

[@Guido-h1o]

Airstream and Newmar are dead do to buy outs from companies that don't care. Do your darn homework before buying any RV.

[@Gemini-kl1wn]

It's a Thor product....