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Forest River Cardinal Problems

The Forest River Cardinal is a luxury fifth wheel RV known for its spacious interiors and residential-style amenities. With 162 NHTSA complaints, the Cardinal shows recurring issues primarily related to tires, structural components, and equipment. The 2015 and 2017 model years have notably higher complaint volumes compared to other years in the lineup.

162
Total Complaints
36
Total Recalls
25
Model Years
0
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

2017 2015
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

2002 2003 2012

Common Problem Categories

Tires 38
Structure 30
Equipment 26
Wheels 20
Unknown Or Other 18

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2024 0 1 0 0 Good
2023 6 0 0 0 Average
2022 0 5 0 0 Good
2021 4 6 0 0 Average
2020 2 1 0 0 Good
2019 4 1 0 0 Average
2018 0 3 0 0 Good
2017 22 3 0 0 Avoid
2016 8 4 0 0 Average
2015 34 1 0 0 Avoid
2014 2 4 0 0 Good
2013 4 2 0 0 Average
2012 2 0 0 0 Good
2010 6 0 0 0 Average
2009 10 0 2 0 Below Average
2008 4 0 0 0 Average
2006 14 0 0 0 Below Average
2005 12 1 0 2 Below Average
2004 6 1 0 0 Average
2003 2 1 0 0 Good
2002 2 1 0 0 Good
2001 4 1 0 4 Average
2000 4 0 0 0 Average
1999 6 0 0 2 Average
1998 4 0 0 0 Average

Forest River Cardinal Years to Avoid

2015, 2017, 2006, 2005

Best Forest River Cardinal Years

2020, 2014, 2012, 2003

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common problems with the Forest River Cardinal?

Tire issues lead with 38 complaints, followed by structural problems (30 complaints), equipment failures (26 complaints), wheel issues (20 complaints), and miscellaneous problems (18 complaints). These issues are typical of heavy fifth wheel trailers.

Which Forest River Cardinal model years should I avoid?

The 2015 model year has the most complaints with 34 reported issues. The 2017 model follows with 22 complaints, while 2006 has 14 and 2005 has 12 complaints. These years show elevated reliability concerns.

Are tire problems on the Cardinal a serious concern?

Yes, tire failures on heavy fifth wheel trailers can be dangerous, potentially causing loss of control or blowouts at highway speeds. The high number of tire complaints (38) suggests owners should carefully monitor tire condition, age, and inflation.

What is the best year to buy a used Forest River Cardinal?

Years with fewer complaints include 2020, 2014, 2012, and 2003, each with only 2 complaints. However, even in good years, a thorough inspection of tires, structural components, and roof seals is essential before purchase.