2013 Forest River Cardinal recalls and problems
The 2013 Forest River Cardinal has 2 safety recalls and 2 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Forest River dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2013 Forest River Cardinal vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2013 Forest River Cardinal recalls
Recall 14V-449: Equipment
Problem: Forest River Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Georgetown, Sunseeker, Forester, Cross Country, Pathfinder, Cardinal, Blue Ridge, Cedar Creek, and Brookstone recreational vehicles manufactured March 11, 2013, through April 26, 2013 and equipped with certain Frigidaire Convection Microwave models CFMV152CLB and CFMV154CLS. The microwave may start on it's own and begin heating when unattended.
Risk: If the microwave starts on its own and there are contents inside, a fire could result.
Fix: Forest River will notify owners, and dealers will repair the membrane/keypad component, free of charge. The recall began in February 2015. Owners may contact Forest River customer service at 1-800-353-7383.
Recall 13V-203: Equipment
Problem: 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 Forest River Cardinal problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical System | 1 | |
| Structure | 1 |
Most reported parts
- Electrical System › Wiring — 1
- Structure › Body — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 15,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2013 Forest River Cardinal complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Forest River Cardinal years
Compare all Forest River Cardinal years · All Forest River models
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2013 Forest River Cardinal have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2013 Forest River Cardinal: 14V-449 (equipment), 13V-203 (equipment). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2013 Forest River Cardinal?
Owners report electrical system problems most often (1 reports), followed by structure (1). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 15,000 miles.
Are Forest River recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Forest River dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.