Forest River Recalls Thousands of RVs Over Fire Risk Due to Wiring Defect

Forest River, Inc. is initiating a recall affecting over 2,000 recreational vehicles due to a manufacturing error that could lead to fires. The issue stems from improper wiring of the distribution panel, which may be connected to the battery without adequate over-current protection. This defect poses a significant risk of fire and property damage.

The recall, submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on October 15, 2025, covers several models of Coachmen and Forest River Aurora recreational trailers. Specifically, the affected vehicles include certain 2026 Coachmen Viking, 2026 Coachmen Clipper, 2026 Coachmen Catalina, 2025 Forest River Aurora, 2026 Forest River Aurora, and 2025 Coachmen Catalina models. The total number of potentially involved vehicles is 2,033, with the defect estimated to be present in 100% of these units. The production dates for the implicated Coachmen Viking and Clipper models range from June to October 2025, while Coachmen Catalina and Forest River Aurora models were produced between January and June 2025, with some Aurora models extending into September and October 2025.

The critical flaw involves the 12V wiring for the distribution panel. Instead of being connected to a protected side of a 30 AMP mini-breaker, the wire is directly linked to the constant “12V HOT” side of the breaker. This bypasses essential over-current protection, creating a hazardous condition. While there are no immediate warning signs, the potential for electrical arcing, overheating, and subsequent fire is a serious concern. The root cause of this issue has been identified as a manufacturing error.

Forest River discovered the defect on October 6, 2025, during a Corporate Standards Audit. Upon identification, the company immediately launched an investigation, inspecting vehicles in their holding yard and contacting dealerships to examine vehicles manufactured around the time a new employee was hired, which was identified as a potential factor in the scope of the issue. Dealers provided photographic evidence confirming the improper wiring in some units and correct wiring in others, allowing Forest River to further refine the scope of the recall. By October 10, 2025, a decision was made to recall the affected vehicles, and a stop sale notice was issued. Additional vehicles were identified and added to the recall on October 15, 2025.

To address the safety risk, Forest River will provide a free repair to all affected owners and dealers. The remedy involves moving the distribution panel wire to the protected (breaker) side of the mini-breaker. This modification will ensure that the wiring is properly protected against over-currents. The company has already begun implementing this corrected wiring procedure in production and in vehicles at their holding yard since the week of October 6, 2025.

Owners of the affected vehicles are advised not to drive them and to park them outside until the recall repair can be performed. Owners who have already paid for a repair related to this specific defect may be eligible for a refund, provided they submit their service invoice. Forest River intends to notify owners by mail, with the planned owner notification date set for November 19, 2025. Owners can contact Forest River Customer Service at (574) 825-4995 for further information.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from Forest River, Inc.

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