The contact owns a 2022 Keystone Dutchman Redwood RV. The contact stated that while driving at slow speeds in stop-and-go traffic, there was an abnormally loud sound coming from the rear of the RV. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and inspected the fifth wheel and became aware that the rear axle had detached. A mobile mechanic was contacted and repaired the RV, allowing the contact to continue driving. The RV was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the U-bolts had failed. The RV was repaired. The contact stated that on another occasion, while driving at slow speeds, other drivers were waving to the contact to attempt to notify the contact that there were leaf springs falling onto the roadway. The contact pulled over to the side of the road. The RV was taken to a dealer where it was determined that the U-bolts and leaf springs had failed, and the rear axle had shifted. The RV was repaired. Most recently, the contact stated that while driving 70 MPH, there was a loud sound coming from the rear of the RV. The contact stated that the RV fishtailed; however, the contact was able to control the RV. The RV was inspected, and the contact became aware that the rear panel and axle had detached from the RV, and the front passenger’s side tire had a blowout. The RV was taken to the dealer who declined to repair the RV because the warranty had lapsed. The RV was taken to an independent mechanic where it was determined that the U-bolts and leaf springs had failed, and the rear axle had shifted. The RV repair was pending. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V728000 (SUSPENSION). The failure mileage was unknown.

Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11663146 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov