Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2019 Forest River Salem
The 2019 Forest River Salem features several recalls, notably in its electrical system and suspension components. Potential buyers should be vigilant about wiring issues, improper brake connections, water tank security, and axle problems. Inspect these areas thoroughly for safety and compliance during pre-purchase checks.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2019 Forest River Salem has 11 NHTSA recall campaigns and 4 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #25V682000 Missing Over Current Protection May Cause Fire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V621000 Fresh Water Tank May Detach NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V563000 Breakaway Switch Wired Incorrectly NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V482000 Fresh Water Tank May Detach NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V933000 Water Heater Exhaust may Melt Power Cord or Hatch NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V856000 Clearance Lights may be Inoperative/FMVSS 108 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V624000 Missing Bearing Races may cause Hub to Overheat NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V550000 Break-Away Safety Switch may be Improperly Wired NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V436000 Outside Shower Cover Covers Water Heater Exhaust NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V428000 Break-Away Safety Switch Improperly Wired NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V386000 Incorrect Axle Equalizer may Cause Axle Contact NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Tires 2 complaints
- Wheels 2 complaints
- Equipment 1 complaint
- Suspension 1 complaint
- Unknown or Other 1 complaint
Known issues to inspect
Improperly wired safety switch
How to check: Ensure brake system engages if trailer detaches
Missing bearing races in hubs
How to check: Check for overheating or burnt-out bearings
Power cord hatch melting
How to check: Inspect for damage near water heater exhaust
Faulty clearance lights
How to check: Test all exterior lights for proper functioning
Non-constant power to safety switch
How to check: Verify switch wiring to constant power source
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Ensure electrical systems power correctly
Red flag: Electrical malfunctions or flickering lights
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Listen for unusual sounds from axle or bearings
Red flag: Loud grinding or squeaking noises
- 03
Initial braking
What to check: Test if trailer brakes activate properly
Red flag: Delayed or no brake response
- 04
Initial takeoff
What to check: Monitor stability when moving
Red flag: Feeling of instability or dragging
- 05
Cruising speed
What to check: Check for any electrical warnings or malfunctions
Red flag: Warning lights or electrical issues
- 06
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure smooth and stable performance
Red flag: Vibrations or pulling suggests suspension issues
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the electrical wiring been repaired?
- Have the axles been inspected recently?
- Were any recalls addressed by professionals?
- Is the clearance lighting fully functional?
- Was the water tank secured properly?
- Were safety switches tested and fixed?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Full recall repair history
- Recent inspection report
- Maintenance records
- Warranty documentation
- Title and registration
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2019 Forest River Salem at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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