1998 Forest River Cardinal
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1997 | 0 |
| 1998 | 2 |
| 1999 | 2 |
| 2000 | 2 |
| 2001 | 1 |
| 2002 | 1 |
| 2003 | 1 |
| 2004 | 2 |
| 2005 | 6 |
| 2006 | 7 |
| 2008 | 1 |
| 2009 | 5 |
| 2010 | 3 |
| 2012 | 1 |
| 2013 | 2 |
| 2014 | 1 |
| 2015 | 11 |
| 2016 | 2 |
| 2017 | 7 |
| 2018 | 0 |
| 2019 | 1 |
| 2020 | 1 |
| 2021 | 1 |
| 2022 | 0 |
| 2023 | 1 |
| 2024 | 0 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 2 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 2 total reports mentions: structure.
Show complaint excerpts
PIN BOX BROKE LOOSE FROM VEHICLE. UPON ARRIVING FROM A VACATION THE CONTACT UNLOADED THE 5TH WHEEL TRAILER AND FOUND AN 1 INCH TO 11/2 INCH GAP IN THE RIGHT TOP CORNER, BIG ENOUGH TO STICK HAND RIGHT OUTSIDE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20060405
1 of 2 total reports mentions: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
The thermostat control wire running from my furnace to the AC melted inside the wall.
NHTSA ODI report, 20221207
SAFETY TIMELINE
CERTAIN RECREATIONAL VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A TWO-DOOR REFRIGERATOR, MANUFACTURED BY THE DOMETIC CORPORATION, MAY HAVE A DEFECT IN THE BOILER TUBE. PRESSURIZED COOLANT SOLUTION COULD BE RELEASED INTO
Remedy: FOREST RIVER WILL BE WORKING WITH DOMETIC IN ORDER TO REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS (PLEASE SEE 06E076). DOMETIC WILL REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS BY INSTALLING A SECONDARY BURN HOUSING, A THERMAL FUSE, A
Campaign 07V085000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1998 Forest River Cardinal — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for structure issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 07V085000 (equipment) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1998 Forest River Cardinal reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1998 Forest River Cardinal?
The most-reported component is structure:frame and members:underbody shields, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1998 Forest River Cardinal have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.