- This topic has 1 reply, 2 voices, and was last updated 2 months, 4 weeks ago by
.
- Posts
Key Highlights
- $3.5 Million Settlement: Camping World to pay Oregon $3 million, with the rest for consumer refunds.
- Deceptive Pricing Practices: Advertised discounts nullified by hidden freight and preparation fees.
- Refund Eligibility: Customers who overpaid for RVs between 2017 and 2018 may get money back.
- New Pricing Rules: Camping World must clearly display all additional charges and stop double-charging.
- Potential Wider Impact: Other states might investigate similar practices by Camping World.
Settlement Overview
Camping World issued a “Dare to Compare” challenge to its customers, promising great deals on RVs. However, Oregon investigators found that the company’s tactics led to inflated charges, resulting in a $3.5 million settlement. This includes $3 million paid to the state, with the remaining funds set aside for refunds to affected customers.
How the Deceptive Pricing Worked
Several Camping World dealerships in Oregon advertised significant discounts to attract buyers. However, these discounts were offset by increased charges for freight and dealer preparation. Essentially, the advertised prices didn’t reflect the true cost, leaving customers paying more than expected.
Oregon’s Attorney General described the situation as a “claw back” scheme. While the initial prices seemed lower, additional fees doubled the overall cost. These extra charges were already part of the advertised price, meaning the supposed savings never actually benefited the customers.
Refund Opportunities for Customers
Who’s Eligible?
Customers who purchased an RV from Camping World in Oregon between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2018, and ended up paying more than the advertised price might be eligible for a refund. Additionally, those who bought a vehicle after December 31, 2018, and believe they were overcharged could also qualify.
How to Claim
If you think you’re eligible, submit a written complaint to Oregon’s Department of Justice within six months of the settlement announcement. Include any proof that shows you paid more than the advertised price.
New Rules for Camping World
Transparent Pricing
Camping World must now clearly display all additional charges, such as freight and preparation fees, on a label attached to the vehicle. This ensures customers know exactly what they’re paying for.
Clear Purchase Orders
The company is required to use straightforward abbreviations in purchase orders. For example, terms like “environ” must clearly explain what they cover, preventing confusion over what customers are being charged for.
No Misleading Offers
Camping World can’t bundle free offers with vehicle purchases unless they come from the manufacturer or another independent party. This stops the company from creating misleading deals through its own affiliated services.
What’s Next for Other States?
The situation in Oregon raises questions about whether Camping World used similar tactics elsewhere. If you bought an RV in another state and suspect overcharging, consider reaching out to your local consumer protection agency to check if similar actions are being taken.
Contact Information
For more details or to file a complaint, contact the Oregon Department of Justice Consumer Hotline at 1-877-877-9392. Visit their website to learn more and submit a written complaint.
Why am I not surprised…
- You must be logged in to reply to this topic.