The Coachmen Chaparral spans 2010–2026 with 31 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 4.0/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 2008, 2005, 2015 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 1995, 1996, 1997. It delivers competitive fuel economy and NHTSA-rated safety.
How we score: NHTSA crash-test safety (40%), recall frequency across all years (25%) and the share of owner complaints involving a crash, fire or injury (35%). Based on NHTSA & EPA data — not user reviews.
Overview
The Coachmen Chaparral is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 2010 to 2026 across multiple generations.
How to read a Coachmen Chaparral VIN — every digit explained
Every Coachmen Chaparral carries a unique 17-character VIN stamped at the factory. Each position is a code — together they spell out where, when and how your car was built. Here's exactly what every digit means.
- WMI (1–3) — country & manufacturer. Tells you it's a Coachmen and the country it was built in (real Coachmen codes below).
- VDS (4–8) — model, body style, engine, trim & restraints. The 8th digit is the engine code.
- Check digit (9) — a math check that proves the VIN is genuine.
- Model year (10) — the year it was built (e.g. R = 2024, S = 2025).
- Plant (11) — which factory assembled this Chaparral.
- Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.
- —1MW · 1TC · 1TE · 1TJ · 1TX
Digits 4–17 — the engine code (8th), model-year letter (10th) and plant — follow the universal SAE standard, identical on every car. For the full year-code table (2001–2026), country codes and where the VIN is stamped on your Chaparral, see the complete guide to reading a VIN.
How many recalls does the Coachmen Chaparral have?
The Coachmen Chaparral has 31 recorded NHTSA recalls across 2010–2026. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
2026 Coachmen Chaparral recalls 1
Equipment:recreational Vehicle/trailer
What's wrong. Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain 2023-2026 Forest River Work and Play, 2024-2026 East to West Takoda, Coachmen Chaparral, 2025-2026 Shasta Phoenix, 2023-2025 Forest River Riverstone, 2022-2026 Coachmen Adrenaline, and 2025 Forest River Cedar Creek fifth wheel travel trailers. The ramp door may break away from the door frame while loading or unloading vehicles.
Risk. A ramp door that breaks during use increases the risk of injury.
Fix. Dealers will install additional support brackets, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 18, 2026. Owners may contact Coachmen Adrenaline & Work and Play customer service at 1-574-825-6302, Riverstone customer service at 1-260-593-4028, East to West Takoda customer service at 1-574-264-6664, Cedar Creek customer service at 1-260-593-4000, Coachmen Chapparal and Shasta Pheonix customer service at 1-574-825-7101. Forest River's number for this recall is 51-2017.
2025 Coachmen Chaparral recalls 1
Equipment:recreational Vehicle/trailer
What's wrong. Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain 2023-2026 Forest River Work and Play, 2024-2026 East to West Takoda, Coachmen Chaparral, 2025-2026 Shasta Phoenix, 2023-2025 Forest River Riverstone, 2022-2026 Coachmen Adrenaline, and 2025 Forest River Cedar Creek fifth wheel travel trailers. The ramp door may break away from the door frame while loading or unloading vehicles.
Risk. A ramp door that breaks during use increases the risk of injury.
Fix. Dealers will install additional support brackets, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 18, 2026. Owners may contact Coachmen Adrenaline & Work and Play customer service at 1-574-825-6302, Riverstone customer service at 1-260-593-4028, East to West Takoda customer service at 1-574-264-6664, Cedar Creek customer service at 1-260-593-4000, Coachmen Chapparal and Shasta Pheonix customer service at 1-574-825-7101. Forest River's number for this recall is 51-2017.
2024 Coachmen Chaparral recalls 2
Equipment:recreational Vehicle/trailer
What's wrong. Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain 2023-2026 Forest River Work and Play, 2024-2026 East to West Takoda, Coachmen Chaparral, 2025-2026 Shasta Phoenix, 2023-2025 Forest River Riverstone, 2022-2026 Coachmen Adrenaline, and 2025 Forest River Cedar Creek fifth wheel travel trailers. The ramp door may break away from the door frame while loading or unloading vehicles.
Risk. A ramp door that breaks during use increases the risk of injury.
Fix. Dealers will install additional support brackets, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 18, 2026. Owners may contact Coachmen Adrenaline & Work and Play customer service at 1-574-825-6302, Riverstone customer service at 1-260-593-4028, East to West Takoda customer service at 1-574-264-6664, Cedar Creek customer service at 1-260-593-4000, Coachmen Chapparal and Shasta Pheonix customer service at 1-574-825-7101. Forest River's number for this recall is 51-2017.
Electrical System:wiring:fuses And Circuit Breakers
What's wrong. Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain 2024 Coachmen Brookstone, Chaparral, Chaparral Lite, and Shasta Phoenix fifth wheel trailers. The affected vehicles may have been manufactured with an incorrect fuse in the power distribution center.
Risk. An incorrect fuse may not function as intended and increase the risk of a fire.
Fix. Dealers will replace the fuse with a 15-AMP 12-Volt fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 6, 2023. Owners may contact Forest River Customer Service at 1-574-825-7101. Forest River's number for this recall is 110-1686.
2023 Coachmen Chaparral recalls 1
Equipment
What's wrong. Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain 2021 Forester 2401BSD, FR3 F3A32DSF, Georgetown GTA36K7, 2022-2023 East to West Entrada, 2023 East to West Alta, Coachmen Apex, Brookstone, Chaparral and Chaparral Lite, Forest River Crusader, Sanibel, Shasta Phoenix, Coachmen Spirit, and East to West Tandara vehicles. The solar panel mounting hardware may become loose and pull through the slot in the panel.
Risk. Loose hardware can cause the solar panels to detach from the vehicle during transit, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will install additional hardware to the existing panel and install a secondary holding bracket, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 5, 2023. Owners may contact East to West Alta, Entrada and Tandara customer service at 1-574-264-6664; Coachmen Apex and Spirit customer service at 1-574-825-8205; Coachmen Brookstone, Chaparral, Chaparral Lite, and Shasta Phoenix customer service at 1-574-825-7101; Crusader and Sanibel customer service at 1-574-862-1025; and Georgetown Forester and FR3 customer service at 1-574-206-7600. Forest River's number for this recall is 51-1607.
2022 Coachmen Chaparral recalls 2
Equipment:recreational Vehicle/trailer:plumbing:potable Water:storage Tank
What's wrong. Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Shasta Phoenix, Coachmen Brookstone, and 2019-2022 Coachmen Chaparral, and Chaparral Lite fifth wheels. The floating cross-member may not be installed correctly and fail to retain the holding tanks, causing the holding tanks to become dislodged.
Risk. A tank that becomes dislodged during transit increases the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and relocate the cross-member as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 29, 2022. Owners may contact Forest River customer service at 1-574-825-7101. Forest River's number for this recall is 110-1561.
Equipment:recreational Vehicle/trailer
What's wrong. Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Coachmen Catalina, Cross Trail, Pursuit, Sportscoach, East to West Della Terra, Silver Lake, Forest River Forester, FR3, Sunseeker, Wildwood, 2022 Coachmen Adrenaline, Apex, Brookstone, Chaparral, Chapparral Lite, Clipper, Freedom Express, Independence Trail, Mirada, Spirit, Viking, Work and Play, East to West Ahara, Tandara, Forest River Aurora, Cardinal, Cedar Creek, Cherokee, Flagstaff, Georgetown, Ibex, Impression, Ozark, Puma, R-Pod, Rockwood, Sabre, Salem, Sandpiper, Sandstorm, Shockwave, Sierra, Solera, Stealth, Stealth Evo, Surveyor, Vengeance, Vibe, Wildcat, XLR Toyhauler, Prime Time Avenger, Crusader, Lacrosse, Sanibel, Tracer, Shasta Oasis, and Phoenix fifth wheel and travel trailers. The electric retractable awning has a welded seam on the fabric that may separate, potentially allowing the awning to drop beyond normal operation.
Risk. An awning that drops or extends beyond normal operation can increase the risk of injury.
Fix. Dealers will replace the fabric roll or complete awning, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 17, 2022. Owners may contact the customer service numbers listed in the recall report for their designated model. Forest River's number for this recall is 51-1532. This recall supersedes and expands NHTSA recall number 22V-486.
2021 Coachmen Chaparral recalls 1
Equipment:recreational Vehicle/trailer:plumbing:potable Water:storage Tank
What's wrong. Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Shasta Phoenix, Coachmen Brookstone, and 2019-2022 Coachmen Chaparral, and Chaparral Lite fifth wheels. The floating cross-member may not be installed correctly and fail to retain the holding tanks, causing the holding tanks to become dislodged.
Risk. A tank that becomes dislodged during transit increases the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and relocate the cross-member as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 29, 2022. Owners may contact Forest River customer service at 1-574-825-7101. Forest River's number for this recall is 110-1561.
2020 Coachmen Chaparral recalls 2
Equipment:recreational Vehicle/trailer:plumbing:potable Water:storage Tank
What's wrong. Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Shasta Phoenix, Coachmen Brookstone, and 2019-2022 Coachmen Chaparral, and Chaparral Lite fifth wheels. The floating cross-member may not be installed correctly and fail to retain the holding tanks, causing the holding tanks to become dislodged.
Risk. A tank that becomes dislodged during transit increases the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and relocate the cross-member as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 29, 2022. Owners may contact Forest River customer service at 1-574-825-7101. Forest River's number for this recall is 110-1561.
Electrical System
What's wrong. Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain 2017-2020 Coachmen Chapparal, Chapparal Lite, Chapparal X-Lite and Shasta Phoenix recreational trailers. The outside kitchen may be equipped with a standard outlet receptacle and not a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protected outlet.
Risk. If the outside kitchen receptacles are not GFCI protected, occupants may be electrically shocked, increasing the risk of injury or death.
Fix. Forest River will notify owners, and dealers will replace a standard 110V outlet in the exterior kitchen with a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) one. The recall is expected to begin July 31, 2019. Owners may contact Forest River customer service at 1-574-825-8360. Forest River's number for this recall is 110-1035.
2019 Coachmen Chaparral recalls 4
Equipment:recreational Vehicle/trailer:plumbing:potable Water:storage Tank
What's wrong. Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Shasta Phoenix, Coachmen Brookstone, and 2019-2022 Coachmen Chaparral, and Chaparral Lite fifth wheels. The floating cross-member may not be installed correctly and fail to retain the holding tanks, causing the holding tanks to become dislodged.
Risk. A tank that becomes dislodged during transit increases the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and relocate the cross-member as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 29, 2022. Owners may contact Forest River customer service at 1-574-825-7101. Forest River's number for this recall is 110-1561.
Equipment:recreational Vehicle/trailer:lpg Systems
What's wrong. Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain 2019 Coachmen Chaparral and Shasta, 2019-2020 Coachmen Concord and Orion, 2020-2021 Coachmen Cross Trek and Forest River Berkshire, 2019-2021 Coachmen Freelander, Leprechaun and Prism, 2020 Coachmen Mirada, Pursuit and Sportscoach, Dynamax Force, DX3, Dynaquest XL and Isata and Forest River Wildwood and 2008 and 2020 Forest River Salem vehicles equipped with Dometic 3 burner cooking stoves. The saddle valve securing bolt may be overtightened, possibly damaging the o-ring seal and causing a continuous gas leak.
Risk. A gas leak can increase the risk of a fire.
Fix. Forest River will notify owners, and dealers will install a remedy kit of gaskets, washers, thread locker bolts, and two round orange labels, free of charge. The recall began January 11, 2021. Owners may contact Forest River customer service at 1-574-825-4995, or Dometic customer service at 1-574-293-0681. Forest River's number for this recall is 51-1259.
Equipment:recreational Vehicle/trailer:lpg Systems
What's wrong. Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain 2019 Coachmen Chaparral, Chaparral Lite and Brookstone, and Shasta Phoenix recreational trailers. The liquid propane (LP) gas bottle ring on these trailers may not have a deep enough pierce punch to bind the metal strap, possibly resulting in the LP bottle detaching.
Risk. If the LP bottle detaches while moving, it can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Forest River will notify owners, and dealers will install new LP bottle rings, free of charge. The recall began on June 28, 2018. Owners may contact Forest River customer service at 1-574-825-8360. Forest River's number for this recall is 110-0738.
Electrical System
What's wrong. Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain 2017-2020 Coachmen Chapparal, Chapparal Lite, Chapparal X-Lite and Shasta Phoenix recreational trailers. The outside kitchen may be equipped with a standard outlet receptacle and not a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protected outlet.
Risk. If the outside kitchen receptacles are not GFCI protected, occupants may be electrically shocked, increasing the risk of injury or death.
Fix. Forest River will notify owners, and dealers will replace a standard 110V outlet in the exterior kitchen with a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) one. The recall is expected to begin July 31, 2019. Owners may contact Forest River customer service at 1-574-825-8360. Forest River's number for this recall is 110-1035.
2018 Coachmen Chaparral recalls 1
Electrical System
What's wrong. Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain 2017-2020 Coachmen Chapparal, Chapparal Lite, Chapparal X-Lite and Shasta Phoenix recreational trailers. The outside kitchen may be equipped with a standard outlet receptacle and not a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protected outlet.
Risk. If the outside kitchen receptacles are not GFCI protected, occupants may be electrically shocked, increasing the risk of injury or death.
Fix. Forest River will notify owners, and dealers will replace a standard 110V outlet in the exterior kitchen with a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) one. The recall is expected to begin July 31, 2019. Owners may contact Forest River customer service at 1-574-825-8360. Forest River's number for this recall is 110-1035.
2017 Coachmen Chaparral recalls 1
Electrical System
What's wrong. Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain 2017-2020 Coachmen Chapparal, Chapparal Lite, Chapparal X-Lite and Shasta Phoenix recreational trailers. The outside kitchen may be equipped with a standard outlet receptacle and not a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protected outlet.
Risk. If the outside kitchen receptacles are not GFCI protected, occupants may be electrically shocked, increasing the risk of injury or death.
Fix. Forest River will notify owners, and dealers will replace a standard 110V outlet in the exterior kitchen with a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) one. The recall is expected to begin July 31, 2019. Owners may contact Forest River customer service at 1-574-825-8360. Forest River's number for this recall is 110-1035.
2014 Coachmen Chaparral recalls 1
Equipment
What's wrong. Forest River is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Forest River models Blue Ridge, Cardinal, Cherokee, Columbus, EVO, Georgetown, Flagstaff, Forester, Lexington, Puma, Rockwood, Sabre, Salem, Sandpiper, Sandstorm, Sierra, Stealth, Sunseeker, Wildcat, Wildwood, Work and Play and XLR; Coachmen models Brookstone, Catalina, Chaparral, Concord, Encounter, Freedom Express, Freelander, Leprechaun, Mirada, Pursuit, and Sportcoach; Prime Time models Avenger, Crusader, Lacrosse, Saniber, and Tracer; Palomino model Maverick Truck Camper; Cargo Mate model Eliminator and Shasta models Revere, Phoenix recreational vehicles manufactured from February 13, 2013, through April 18, 2013. Due to a design change in the power awning motor assembly, the motor assembly screws may unknowingly shear.
Risk. If the motor assembly screws shear, it is possible that the awning can unfurl unexpectedly, either while the vehicle is at rest or while in transit, increasing the risk of personal injury or a vehicle crash.
Fix. Forest River will notify owners and Dometic staff will replace the affected motors with motors of a different design. The safety recall began on July 29, 2013. Owners may contact Forest River at 1-574-389-4600 or Dometic at 1-888-447-0003 for more information. Owners are being instructed not to drive their vehicle until repairs can be performed.
2013 Coachmen Chaparral recalls 1
Equipment
What's wrong. Forest River is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Forest River models Blue Ridge, Cardinal, Cherokee, Columbus, EVO, Georgetown, Flagstaff, Forester, Lexington, Puma, Rockwood, Sabre, Salem, Sandpiper, Sandstorm, Sierra, Stealth, Sunseeker, Wildcat, Wildwood, Work and Play and XLR; Coachmen models Brookstone, Catalina, Chaparral, Concord, Encounter, Freedom Express, Freelander, Leprechaun, Mirada, Pursuit, and Sportcoach; Prime Time models Avenger, Crusader, Lacrosse, Saniber, and Tracer; Palomino model Maverick Truck Camper; Cargo Mate model Eliminator and Shasta models Revere, Phoenix recreational vehicles manufactured from February 13, 2013, through April 18, 2013. Due to a design change in the power awning motor assembly, the motor assembly screws may unknowingly shear.
Risk. If the motor assembly screws shear, it is possible that the awning can unfurl unexpectedly, either while the vehicle is at rest or while in transit, increasing the risk of personal injury or a vehicle crash.
Fix. Forest River will notify owners and Dometic staff will replace the affected motors with motors of a different design. The safety recall began on July 29, 2013. Owners may contact Forest River at 1-574-389-4600 or Dometic at 1-888-447-0003 for more information. Owners are being instructed not to drive their vehicle until repairs can be performed.
2011 Coachmen Chaparral recalls 1
Equipment
What's wrong. Coachmen is recalling certain model year 2011 chaparral, brookstone, and northridge fifth wheel travel trailers manufactured from july 1, 2010, through september 20, 2010, equipped with atwood 35 series range ovens. A potential exists for a small fracture within the line delivering gas to the oven cavity burner. Such a fracture may cause propane gas to leak from the line.
Risk. A propane leak in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire and/or explosion causing property damage and/or personal injury.
Fix. Coachmen is working with atwood and will replace or repair the stoves free of charge. The safety recall began on october 28, 2010. Owners may contact atwood at 1-574-266-4749 or coachmen at 1-574-825-8360.
2008 Coachmen Chaparral recalls 1
Equipment:recreational Vehicle/trailer
What's wrong. Coachmen is recalling certain model year 2007-2008 chaparral, model year 2004-2006 somerset, model year 2007-2008 wyoming, model year 2004-2005 santara, and model year 2004-2006 sportscoach elite motor homes and fifth wheel trailers manufactured from october 2003, through september 2007. These vehicles are equipped with dimplex electraflame, symphony, or optiflame branded electric fireplaces, stoves, and fireplace inserts. The plug in remote control receiver for the fireplace can overheat.
Risk. An overheated receiver could cause a fire.
Fix. Coachmen is working with dimplex to identify and notify any affected owners. Dimplex will provide owners a free replacement plug-in remote control kit. The safety recall began on february 21, 2011. Owners may contact dimplex north america customer service at 1-888-346-7539 or coachmen motor works customer service at 1-866-953-5555.
2007 Coachmen Chaparral recalls 3
Equipment:recreational Vehicle/trailer
What's wrong. Coachmen is recalling certain model year 2007-2008 chaparral, model year 2004-2006 somerset, model year 2007-2008 wyoming, model year 2004-2005 santara, and model year 2004-2006 sportscoach elite motor homes and fifth wheel trailers manufactured from october 2003, through september 2007. These vehicles are equipped with dimplex electraflame, symphony, or optiflame branded electric fireplaces, stoves, and fireplace inserts. The plug in remote control receiver for the fireplace can overheat.
Risk. An overheated receiver could cause a fire.
Fix. Coachmen is working with dimplex to identify and notify any affected owners. Dimplex will provide owners a free replacement plug-in remote control kit. The safety recall began on february 21, 2011. Owners may contact dimplex north america customer service at 1-888-346-7539 or coachmen motor works customer service at 1-866-953-5555.
Equipment:recreational Vehicle/trailer
What's wrong. Coachmen is recalling 37,293 motorhomes and fifth wheel travel trailers equipped with a two-door refrigerator manufactured by the dometic corporation. The refrigerator may have a defect in the boiler tube. Pressurized coolant solution could be released into an area where an ignition source (gas flame) is present.
Risk. Extended operation of a leaking cooling unit could lead to a fire from gas which might escape.
Fix. Coachmen is working with dometic in order to repair these refrigerators (please see 08e032). Dometic will repair these refrigerators by installing a secondary burn housing, a thermal fuse, and a melt fuse free of charge. Dometic has retained stericycle inc. To manage this campaign. Stericycle will assist the owner in locating dealerships or service centers and will provide assistance with scheduling of appointments. Owners may contact dometic/stericycle at 1-888-446-5157 or coachmen at 574-825-5821.
Equipment:recreational Vehicle/trailer
What's wrong. Coachmen is recalling 13,662 my 2002-2008 motor homes, fifth wheel and travel trailers equipped with glass shower doors and manufactured from june 15, 2001 thorugh august 6, 2007. When pressure is applied to the towel bar on the glass shower door, the edge of the bar may contact the glass.
Risk. Glass breakage may occur which could cause personal injury.
Fix. Owners will be provided with new mounting hardware for the towel bar and installation instructions. If an owner is not comfortable replacing the hardware themselves, a dealer will install the hardware at no cost to them. The recall is expected to begin on or about december 19, 2008. Owners may contact coachmen at 1-574-825-5821.
2006 Coachmen Chaparral recalls 2
Equipment:recreational Vehicle/trailer
What's wrong. Coachmen is recalling 37,293 motorhomes and fifth wheel travel trailers equipped with a two-door refrigerator manufactured by the dometic corporation. The refrigerator may have a defect in the boiler tube. Pressurized coolant solution could be released into an area where an ignition source (gas flame) is present.
Risk. Extended operation of a leaking cooling unit could lead to a fire from gas which might escape.
Fix. Coachmen is working with dometic in order to repair these refrigerators (please see 08e032). Dometic will repair these refrigerators by installing a secondary burn housing, a thermal fuse, and a melt fuse free of charge. Dometic has retained stericycle inc. To manage this campaign. Stericycle will assist the owner in locating dealerships or service centers and will provide assistance with scheduling of appointments. Owners may contact dometic/stericycle at 1-888-446-5157 or coachmen at 574-825-5821.
Equipment:recreational Vehicle/trailer
What's wrong. Coachmen is recalling 13,662 my 2002-2008 motor homes, fifth wheel and travel trailers equipped with glass shower doors and manufactured from june 15, 2001 thorugh august 6, 2007. When pressure is applied to the towel bar on the glass shower door, the edge of the bar may contact the glass.
Risk. Glass breakage may occur which could cause personal injury.
Fix. Owners will be provided with new mounting hardware for the towel bar and installation instructions. If an owner is not comfortable replacing the hardware themselves, a dealer will install the hardware at no cost to them. The recall is expected to begin on or about december 19, 2008. Owners may contact coachmen at 1-574-825-5821.
2005 Coachmen Chaparral recalls 2
Equipment:recreational Vehicle/trailer
What's wrong. Coachmen is recalling 37,293 motorhomes and fifth wheel travel trailers equipped with a two-door refrigerator manufactured by the dometic corporation. The refrigerator may have a defect in the boiler tube. Pressurized coolant solution could be released into an area where an ignition source (gas flame) is present.
Risk. Extended operation of a leaking cooling unit could lead to a fire from gas which might escape.
Fix. Coachmen is working with dometic in order to repair these refrigerators (please see 08e032). Dometic will repair these refrigerators by installing a secondary burn housing, a thermal fuse, and a melt fuse free of charge. Dometic has retained stericycle inc. To manage this campaign. Stericycle will assist the owner in locating dealerships or service centers and will provide assistance with scheduling of appointments. Owners may contact dometic/stericycle at 1-888-446-5157 or coachmen at 574-825-5821.
Equipment:recreational Vehicle/trailer
What's wrong. Coachmen is recalling 13,662 my 2002-2008 motor homes, fifth wheel and travel trailers equipped with glass shower doors and manufactured from june 15, 2001 thorugh august 6, 2007. When pressure is applied to the towel bar on the glass shower door, the edge of the bar may contact the glass.
Risk. Glass breakage may occur which could cause personal injury.
Fix. Owners will be provided with new mounting hardware for the towel bar and installation instructions. If an owner is not comfortable replacing the hardware themselves, a dealer will install the hardware at no cost to them. The recall is expected to begin on or about december 19, 2008. Owners may contact coachmen at 1-574-825-5821.
2004 Coachmen Chaparral recalls 1
Equipment:recreational Vehicle/trailer
What's wrong. Coachmen is recalling 37,293 motorhomes and fifth wheel travel trailers equipped with a two-door refrigerator manufactured by the dometic corporation. The refrigerator may have a defect in the boiler tube. Pressurized coolant solution could be released into an area where an ignition source (gas flame) is present.
Risk. Extended operation of a leaking cooling unit could lead to a fire from gas which might escape.
Fix. Coachmen is working with dometic in order to repair these refrigerators (please see 08e032). Dometic will repair these refrigerators by installing a secondary burn housing, a thermal fuse, and a melt fuse free of charge. Dometic has retained stericycle inc. To manage this campaign. Stericycle will assist the owner in locating dealerships or service centers and will provide assistance with scheduling of appointments. Owners may contact dometic/stericycle at 1-888-446-5157 or coachmen at 574-825-5821.
2002 Coachmen Chaparral recalls 1
Equipment:recreational Vehicle/trailer
What's wrong. On certain motor homes, travel trailers, and fifth wheel trailers equipped with samsung microwave ovens, these units were produced with a defective panel. An electrical short can occur between circuit patterns on the membrane panel, especially overlapped by a "jumper" or jump wire. This may cause the oven to activate without pressing any key pads.
Risk. An electrical short can occur causing the oven to activate without pressing any key pads. This could result in excessive heat, smoke, or possibly a fire.
Fix. Samsung will notify customers and repair the panel free of charge. In the meantime, consumers should unplug their microwave, if possible. If the consumer is unable to unplug the microwave, they should leave the door ajar until the panel is replaced. Consumers should never use the microwave oven for storage or leave any towels, paper, cloth or other products in the microwave after use. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact samsung at 800-932-3837 or coachmen at 1-219-825-5821.
2001 Coachmen Chaparral recalls 1
Equipment:recreational Vehicle/trailer
What's wrong. On certain motor homes, travel trailers, and fifth wheel trailers equipped with samsung microwave ovens, these units were produced with a defective panel. An electrical short can occur between circuit patterns on the membrane panel, especially overlapped by a "jumper" or jump wire. This may cause the oven to activate without pressing any key pads.
Risk. An electrical short can occur causing the oven to activate without pressing any key pads. This could result in excessive heat, smoke, or possibly a fire.
Fix. Samsung will notify customers and repair the panel free of charge. In the meantime, consumers should unplug their microwave, if possible. If the consumer is unable to unplug the microwave, they should leave the door ajar until the panel is replaced. Consumers should never use the microwave oven for storage or leave any towels, paper, cloth or other products in the microwave after use. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact samsung at 800-932-3837 or coachmen at 1-219-825-5821.
2000 Coachmen Chaparral recalls 1
Equipment:recreational Vehicle/trailer
What's wrong. On certain motor homes, travel trailers, and fifth wheel trailers equipped with samsung microwave ovens, these units were produced with a defective panel. An electrical short can occur between circuit patterns on the membrane panel, especially overlapped by a "jumper" or jump wire. This may cause the oven to activate without pressing any key pads.
Risk. An electrical short can occur causing the oven to activate without pressing any key pads. This could result in excessive heat, smoke, or possibly a fire.
Fix. Samsung will notify customers and repair the panel free of charge. In the meantime, consumers should unplug their microwave, if possible. If the consumer is unable to unplug the microwave, they should leave the door ajar until the panel is replaced. Consumers should never use the microwave oven for storage or leave any towels, paper, cloth or other products in the microwave after use. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact samsung at 800-932-3837 or coachmen at 1-219-825-5821.
Best and worst years for the Coachmen Chaparral
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 32 tracked years, the worst years are 2008, 2005, 2015 and the best (fewest complaints) are 1995, 1996, 1997.
ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.
| Year | Owner complaints | Top issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1995 Chaparral | — | Best | |
| 1996 Chaparral | — | Best | |
| 1997 Chaparral | — | Best | |
| 1998 Chaparral | — | Average | |
| 1999 Chaparral | — | Average | |
| 2000 Chaparral | — | Average | |
| 2001 Chaparral | — | Average | |
| 2002 Chaparral | — | Average | |
| 2003 Chaparral | — | Average | |
| 2004 Chaparral | Tires | Average | |
| 2005 Chaparral | Equipment | Avoid | |
| 2006 Chaparral | Tires | Average | |
| 2007 Chaparral | Equipment | Average | |
| 2008 Chaparral | Suspension | Avoid | |
| 2009 Chaparral | — | Average | |
| 2010 Chaparral | — | Average | |
| 2011 Chaparral | — | Average | |
| 2012 Chaparral | Tires | Average | |
| 2013 Chaparral | — | Average | |
| 2014 Chaparral | — | Average | |
| 2015 Chaparral | Suspension | Avoid | |
| 2016 Chaparral | — | Average | |
| 2017 Chaparral | — | Average | |
| 2018 Chaparral | — | Average | |
| 2019 Chaparral | — | Average | |
| 2020 Chaparral | — | Average | |
| 2021 Chaparral | — | Average | |
| 2022 Chaparral | — | Average | |
| 2023 Chaparral | — | Average | |
| 2024 Chaparral | — | Average | |
| 2025 Chaparral | — | Average | |
| 2026 Chaparral | — | Average |
What are the most common Coachmen Chaparral problems?
The most-reported Coachmen Chaparral problems are Tires (3 reports), Equipment (3 reports) and Suspension (3 reports) — out of 9 owner complaints NHTSA holds for the model. Here's how they break down:
Most-reported components — tap a category to read what owners actually experienced:
Suspension 3 Read
When turning into my driveway, i noticed a loud metallic noise. After stopping the 5th wheel i noticed that the left back spring bracket had broken on either side of the welded base. The frame is produced by lippert (lci) "correct track" suspension.
Tl* the contact owns a 2008 coachmen chaparral. While driving 75 mph, the contact heard a popping noise coming from the trailer and noticed that it began to sway. The contact pulled the vehicle over and had it towed to an independent mechanic. The mechanic informed the contact that the u-bolts on the axle were loose, which caused the equalizers to bend and pop. The pressure of the u-bolts shifted inside the axle, which caused the trailer to sway. The contact was informed that the repairs would cost between $3,500 to $4,500. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure due to the number no longer being in service. There was no odometer inside the trailer.
Tl* the contact owns a 2008 coachmen chaparral. The rear axle on the trailer was misaligned with the front axle. This condition caused abnormal tread wear on one of the rear tires. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealership for inspection. The technician stated that the axles were within their tolerance limit, so they could not provide a remedy. The failure mileage was approximately 6,000. The current mileage was approximately 8,000.
Tires 3 Read
Tl* the contact owns a 2012 coachmen chaparral fifth wheel equipped with triangle (n/a), tire size st 225/75/r/15. The contact stated that there were several tires issues with the rv. The front driver's side tire was exhibiting tread separation, the rear driver's side tire experienced tread and belt separation, and the passenger's side tire had excessive wear. The failure was reported to the manufacturer but they refused to offer any assistance. The tire failure mileage was 10,000. The failure mileage for the rv was unknown. The current mileage was 10,000. Updated 8/19/13 *cn the consumer replaced all of the tires at a cost of $740. Updated 09/04/13
On september 9, 2013 my husband & i were coming home to west palm beach florida from mt airy maryland traveling on i95 south bound just over the virginia line we had a left rear tire on our 5th wheel trailer go flat. We changed the tire ourselves and continue on to the next truck stop and asked the service department to fix our flat we did not want to be without a spare tire we still had 1000 miles to home. They told us it could not be repaired it was split all around. We were on i95 sb at mile marker 82 near dunn north carolina at 5pm had one right tire the tread separated and the tire next to it blew causing $7,000+ to our 5th wheel trailer and also damaged the 5th wheel hitch. We had to purchase 3 new tires and sat on i95 from 5pm to 9pm before getting back on the road. The damage was bad enough but the trailer service company stated it was inches away from the propane tanks and we were very lucky the trailer did not catch on fire and explode from the electrical wiring torn apart. We were very glad our grandkids where at home in mt. Airy maryland and that the accident did not happen on the way to take them home. The four new tires were only 2 years old and had less than 3400 miles on them. Fortunately there were no injuries or other vehicles involved. We will also need to buy 1 more tire to replace the 4th carlisle tire we still have - we will not travel with that tire either on the trailer or as a spare. We do not trust carlisle tires. Our out of pocket expenses are so far approximately $1000. *tr
I had two carlisle tires blow out in the last 6 months. The tires were installed along with 2 others on my 2004 coachmen chaparel by a tire dealer in november, 1907. The trailer manufacturer specified st 225/75r15, load rating d tires, but the tires i purchased are st 225/75r15 load rating e. The first tire blew last fall on a two-lane state highway causing significant damage to the trailer. There was nothing left of the tire but the sidewalls. The second tire blew this january, 2011 on interstate highway 10, causing some damage to the trim at the tire well. The tire was intact with a large hole in the sidewall. The repairman said the tire was faulty and the blow out was not caused by a road hazard. In both of these cases the tire pressure was checked before the trip and had 80 psi which is recommended for 2830 lb load at 65 mph. I was driving 55-60 mph in both cases. I pulled this trailer to alaska in 2004 (around 12,000 miles) and to nova scotia in 2007 (around 5,000 miles) and never had a problem with american made tires. Trailer tires made in china and taiwan are the only ones available, these are a hazard to the travelling public, including those sharing the highway and those in the towing vehicles. *tr
Equipment 3 Read
I believe the fire started by a recalled refrigerator that we were not aware of, the make of refrigerator was a dometic. *tr
2005 coachman chapparal. Consumer writes in regards to vehicle refrigerator system issues. *smd the consumer stated the refrigerator stopped cooling in the fall of 2014. The consumer discovered recall # 06e076000. However, he never received a recall notice. The consumer stated his refrigerator had all the symptoms as described in the recall. Dometic refused to assist, the consumer. *jb
Tl*the contact owns a 2004 coachman. The vehicle has a dometic refrigerator, model rm2652. The contact received a recall notice for nhtsa campaign id number 08e032000 (equipment) and called a local rv station to have the equipment repaired. He was advised that there was a six month waiting period. The contact called another dealer 30 miles away. If he travels to that dealer, the expense of fuel and time off exceeds the cost of installing the repair kit. Secondly, there is a long waiting period at the dealer that is 30 miles away. Dometic did not provide any assistance. As of august 12, 2008, the vehicle has not been repaired. The failure and current mileages were not applicable. Updated 09/24/08. *lj updated 09/30/08.*jb
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.
Coachmen Chaparral specifications & dimensions
The 2026 Coachmen Chaparral. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN. For the original factory build — MSRP, trim and standard equipment — rebuild the Coachmen Chaparral window sticker.
| Specs cache warming… |
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Coachmen Chaparral cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the Chaparral holds — passengers and cargo. Seating, cargo and interior dimensions vary by trim and seat configuration — decode your VIN for the exact build.
Exact seating capacity, third-row availability, legroom and headroom decode from your VIN or vary by trim — the original factory equipment & options list shows what each trim included.
Passenger & cargo volume from EPA fueleconomy.gov (largest configuration). Seats, legroom and headroom from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Coachmen Chaparral tire size, oil type & owner specs
The fitment owners look up most — tires, wheels, oil and batteries. Exact wheel and tire sizes decode from your VIN or the driver's door-jamb placard; the universal items are listed below.
Exact tire, wheel, oil grade, capacity and battery group are added per trim and model year — decode your VIN above for the factory fitment. Universal items shown as-is.
What MPG does the Coachmen Chaparral get?
MPG cache warming… reload in a moment.
What engines does the Coachmen Chaparral have? Power & range
Powertrain data warming… reload in a moment.
How much does a Coachmen Chaparral cost to own?
A Coachmen Chaparral depreciates at about an average rate. A typical example keeps roughly 46% of its value after five years — losing about 54% to depreciation. Check what a used Chaparral is worth today or browse current used-market prices before you buy or sell. Fuel, maintenance and insurance add to the total cost to own.
| Age | Value retained | Est. resale value | Lost to depreciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 80% | $24,000 | −$6,000 |
| Year 2 | 70% | $21,000 | −$9,000 |
| Year 3 | 61% | $18,300 | −$11,700 |
| Year 4 | 53% | $15,900 | −$14,100 |
| Year 5 | 46% | $13,800 | −$16,200 |
What goes into the five-year cost to own:
- Depreciation — the biggest cost: this Chaparral loses about 54% of its value over five years. See the full depreciation curve by age.
- Fuel — based on EPA economy at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
- Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the Chaparral ages.
- Insurance — varies by driver, state and trim; get a quote for your exact figure.
Resale & depreciation are ForCar estimates from typical segment value-retention curves — not a live market quote. Fuel from EPA fueleconomy.gov at ~15k mi/yr.
Is the Coachmen Chaparral safe?
NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the Chaparral yet — see the top-rated safest cars instead.
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How many miles does a Coachmen Chaparral last?
A well-maintained Coachmen Chaparral typically lasts 250,000–300,000+ miles. It's exceptionally durable — with routine maintenance many owners report 250k+ on the original powertrain. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 4.0/5.
Check your Coachmen Chaparral’s VIN — history, recalls & specs
Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Check this Chaparral’s VIN free →All Coachmen Chaparral model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Coachmen Chaparral — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Chaparral | 1 recall | — | — |
| 2025 Chaparral | 1 recall | — | — |
| 2024 Chaparral | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 2023 Chaparral | 1 recall | — | — |
| 2022 Chaparral | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 2021 Chaparral | 1 recall | — | — |
| 2020 Chaparral | 2 recalls | — | — |
| 2019 Chaparral | 4 recalls | — | — |
| 2018 Chaparral | 1 recall | — | — |
| 2017 Chaparral | 1 recall | — | — |
| 2016 Chaparral | 0 | — | — |
| 2015 Chaparral | 0 | — | — |
| 2014 Chaparral | 1 recall | — | — |
| 2013 Chaparral | 1 recall | — | — |
| 2012 Chaparral | 0 | — | — |
| 2011 Chaparral | 1 recall | — | — |
| 2010 Chaparral | 0 | — | — |
Recalls = NHTSA campaigns that year · MPG = best EPA combined · Safety = NHTSA overall stars (tested years).
Frequently asked questions
What are the worst years for the Chaparral?
By owner-complaint volume, 2008, 2005, 2015 drew the most reports. 1995, 1996, 1997 have the cleanest records.
How many recalls does the Chaparral have?
31 recorded NHTSA recalls across 2010–2026. Always check open recalls by your VIN.
How many miles does a Chaparral last?
A well-maintained Chaparral typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the Chaparral reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the Chaparral is 4.0/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Coachmen Chaparral warranty?
New Coachmen models carry a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic (bumper-to-bumper) warranty and a 5 years / 60,000 miles powertrain warranty. Coverage can vary by model year and market — confirm with a Coachmen dealer.
Where is the Coachmen Chaparral made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your Chaparral's VIN above to see exactly where it was built; Coachmen may build it at more than one plant depending on the year.
How much ground clearance does the Chaparral have?
Ground clearance varies by trim and drivetrain — AWD/4WD versions often sit higher. Decode your VIN or check the specific trim for the exact figure.