Elddis/Explorer crack/crease to corner of openings
I have been a very happy caravaner during the last 40 years - first with parents, then my own children and now just two of us. A member of CC for many years and also CaravanTalk.
I purchased a new Crusader Mistral in Spring 2010 after a 10 year break from caravanning. After a few months swapped for a Crusader Cyclone for extra space losing a lot of money in the process
but thinking long term it was worth it.
For the last 3 years we have had numerous faults but last summer we were hit with a big one just under 3 years old. In July 2013 I noted 2 creases at the corners of the lounge side window and
2 bulges between the door and fridge vent.
I contacted my dealer immediately and requested action. It took Elddis 3 months to eventually accept responsibility for repair under warranty after 2 inspections, reports and photos. I had to
chase weekly for updates and replies or heard nothing.
Elddis advised me in September 2013 they would collect and return my caravan to the factory for replacement sides and strengthening around openings but due to workload it could be as late as
January 2014 before they could deal with it. They advised they would check their schedule and call me back with a date shortly. Since then I heard nothing and despite 2 requests in writing for a date am still waiting for any information or repair!
In the meantime I noticed more creases appearing on opposite side of caravan and both lounge side windows started leaking end of the summer. Then in October the roof started leaking above
the wardrobe. I have found around 20 owners in the same boat on CaravanTalk most had claims rejected citing pothole damage to blame and now finding more with cracking front and rear panels too.
I have viewed the new Crusader Storm and would like nothing more than to swap my troublesome Cyclone but with this level of customer service and problems am actually considering giving
up caravanning!
Myself and the others affected would like to find any members on here with similar issues with a view to sharing experiences/knowledge.