Yahoo Message Number: 98865 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/98865)
A recent post complained about problems with Zip Dee awnings.
This summer my Carefree 120 V lateral arm awning (Mirage) failed. The tube motor was bad. The only way I had to find a new one was by going by the awning model number. I couldn't remove the motor and get the ID because I did not want to undertake the job myself. I needed to have a new motor available when I took the coach in for the repair, so I had to order it from the awning manufacturer, Carfree of Colorado @ $1,222, and had it shipped directly to the coach repair facility.
When I got to the repair facility, I saw the new motor and discovered it was not made by Carefree, but rather a French company named Simu. I photographed the ID plate.
When the repair was complete and I got home I researched the motor ID and found a Simu distributor near me that quoted $398. A larger distributor that I was already familiar with, Florida Shade, quoted $535.
I emailed Carefree and stated that I thought their price was unreasonably above market price and asked for an adjustment. I pointed out that many RV component suppliers use their advertising budgets to support customers with free or low cost parts to promote good will.
I received no response which demonstrates the ultimate in disrespect for a customer. They could have pitched any kind of rationale for their price in a reply and left me with a much better opinion of them. I have had friends purchase replacement awnings from Carefree, but I could never do that now.
George Harper
04 Allure
31093
Yahoo Message Number: 98867 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/98867)
Carefree is not a customer oriented company. Just try to get any information or customer support from them. Would always avoid them if at all possible.
--
Dave Strain
96 Intrique.
Yahoo Message Number: 98870 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/98870)
I totally agree. They keep no parts on hand when they quit production on a certain model. I have contacted a man named David Jones at Dealer Resources Group. He has always come through for me on Carefree parts.
Brett
2008 Allure 470
#31665