advice, please!!!

[havingfunnow]

So, you saw the photos of the Sprinter hightop van I bought about a month ago. I need advice with a problem.

The dealer assured me the engine had been overhauled and was in perfect shape for a trip from Michigan to Florida or anywhere else. Alas, the hills of Kentucky and Tennessee were too much for the turbo, and it blew out. The damage became obvious just south of Birmingham, where the local Sprinter dealer advised me that it was driveable if I kept the oil topped off, and that I could make it to my sister's place in Florida. So, I did that. About 90 miles from her, the Sprinter quit running completely. The AAA tow service took it to a local shop with diesel certified mechanics and there it sits.

Here's the problem: the engine needs to be replaced, and that is expensive. I've been in contact with the original dealer, who has made some calls in this area, but has been very cagey about paying for part of the repairs.

The best price I have found is from a Sprinter dealer in Tampa, who can install a used engine for about $6500. I ran an Edmunds valuation of my van with that engine, and the price I paid plus the repair price are about the same as the Edmunds' dealer price. So I'd be at about market value if I had that done, but I'd have to borrow some of the money if the original dealer won't chip in.

Another option is to write off the Sprinter and buy something temporary to drive until the next portion of my settlement money arrives. There are several converted vans about 20 years old in this area, ranging from $2000 to $4000.

So, what would the sistahs do?

Repair the Sprinter only if the dealer kicks in?

Repair the Sprinter even if I have to borrow money?

Buy an elderly replacement vehicle?

Something else entirely?

Thanks for good thoughts and advice!!

[DesireGMC]

The dealer should have some responsibility in this - was there any warranty involved at all? Was it checked out by an outside mechanic? If you love the Sprinter I think I'd stick with it - especially as it seems you got a good deal on it. An older rig will come with older problems - at least with this you know you'll be set to go. Just my two cents worth.........

[Readytogo]

At least speak to an attorney or read your paperwork to see if there is any kind of arbitration clause. Used vehicles even tho are sold as is, usually have a 30 day warranty. At least check and see what can be done. I personally woudnt buy a 20 yr old vehicle. Wendy

[snowball]

I think I would see what the dealer can come up with do you have a lawyer friend that could
expedite it?
have friends here in Q that decided to purchase a different motor home...her DH had seen one that he liked
and since there motor home was starting after 23 years to have serious issues and the price had gone done that they
ought to look into it...they told the dealer that they would only take it if their mechanic would approve it...so over to
Blythe it went and he found stuff they said they would fix the stuff and they said ok but the mechanic would have to recheck it
and see if the work was done right it wasn't some not even done so the dealer paid him to do the work think that is what they
should have done in the first place wouldn't have had to wait almost a month for it....and even then when the mechanic took it for a
test drive and it was hot realized that the A/C didn't work so he called they agreed to send him a part and he did the work on it
I think they wanted to sell that rig
good luck with whatever you decide to do
sheila

[Redetotry]

I did a Google search on Dodge Sprinter van reviews/problems and found this http://www.mysprintervan.com/general-sp ... nters.html and this http://www.sprinter-rv.com/2011/11/25/b ... k-out-for/ plus several other sites. This answer seemed to pin point a real concern.

"I am currently getting all my paperwork in order to meet with the lawyer. Do not buy one of these vans you will be sorry. The Dodge dealership network does not recognize them as a Dodge, nor Mercedes as a Mercedes and Freightliner all but stopped even admitting that they exist. You can have the best mechanic/ service center in the world, but if the parts are unavailable, technical training non-existent and REAL support from Daimler/ Chrysler than what good is good fuel mileage? True they get 20-30 MPG...... when they run long enough to use one complete tank of fuel... "

If you are expecting settlement money I would get rid of this van if you can, but would not buy a 20 year old vehicle as you will just be buying worse problems IMO. I would borrow $$ and buy a different model then pay it off when the settlement comes if you need something for transportation. If you don't need it, then wait for the expected money.
Good luck and I am so sorry this has happened to your dream.

[Acadianmom]

After having a motorhome with an engine no one wanted to work on I wouldn't have anything but a Ford or Chevy. I can't stand the local Dodge dealer so wouldn't have a Dodge.

I guess I would try to get the Van to a point where I could trade it but I wouldn't buy a 20 year old motorhome. Then you might have 2 vehicles that needed repairs.

Martha

[Colliemom]

You might also want to check into possibly selling the van for scrap as metal is in good demand right now. Maybe rent a rental vehicle to get you back to MI and then decide what you want to do after that. Would give you time to think about it.

Are you adverse to pulling a TT or small camper? If your main vehicle at home is up to the task, that may be the way to possibly go too, or take the plunge and buy a newer model van. I know i have been pricing them and they don't run cheap. In the long run it might be better to have to make payments for awhile and have something dependable. A new larger van has been on my list, but since we have hard winters up here, I don't know if I want to drive one around unless it has all wheel drive. Much to think about.

Good luck with whateve way this all turns out and keep us informed.

[havingfunnow]

Bless you all! I needed the support! (Not to mention, the sympathy!)

I'm glad you all agree that buying a 20-year-old RV is a bad idea. Each of my siblings suggested this, but to me it felt like buying more worry. Maybe if I was a mechanic. That would be the day

If the dealer was based in Florida, I would be protected by lemon laws, but in Michigan those only apply to new vehicles. I wish I'd known that earlier. Well, my grandfather used to say, "You won't learn any younger," and he's right. If any of you are thinking of buying a used vehicle in Michigan ( Sue? ), remember that the lemon laws won't help you.

I'm thinking that I'll repair the van, since the money I'd have into it would equal buying the same year's model from a dealer. I'm seriously thinking about trading it out while it's in great shape, though!

[mitch5252]

..
Good luck, Louise.
I'm sure it will all work out and in a few decades, you can talk about it without wanting to well, kill or hurt someone!

Abby says "woof" to The William.
..

[havingfunnow]

I figure that when I've been happily RVing for a year, this will be a funny story. Not yet, though.

Wm much appreciates the "woof" from Abby! My sister's cat doesn't like him, and his feelings are hurt.