Hello there! In my Questions From the Road column, I take a crack at answering real questions from real RVers, just like you. You might find your question here! If not, please send me an email!

“Beyond the obvious reason for saving money, why do RV manufacturers use such cheap parts on items like stairs and suspension? I upgraded my suspension for under $300 and it made a world of difference. The stairs that come with most travel trailers are clearly unsafe.”

-Sarah & Jason

Well, you’ve already taken away my number one reason, which would have been cost. The RV industry has cutthroat margins.

It’s rather inane that automobiles use multi-link independent shock-absorbing suspensions and most towable RVs still use simple leaf springs, isn’t it?

Modern motorhomes can come with some pretty sophisticated suspensions, such as airbags. But run-of-the-mill towable campers still rely on simple sprung suspensions.

Unfortunately, most RV buyers look more at fridges and upholstery than suspensions, and I think the industry caters to that customer.

Now, from the OEM’s perspective, the argument can be made that most RVers are recreational weekend warriors, using their rigs 6-8 times a year. Should they make all customers pay the extra $1,000+ for an upgraded suspension even when good ol’ leaf springs will do the job for most customers? Isn’t that why the aftermarket exists?

That’s not necessarily my opinion, but it’s a common argument.

Another reason why leaf springs remain so prevalent is that most RVs are dual-and triple-axle. Many suspensions simply don’t work well for multi-axle weight distribution and vehicle handling.

I’ll leave the “unsafe steps” argument alone, because unsafe means different things to different people. Not rated for your body weight? Tread too shallow or riser too high? Too much flex even with stabilizer jacks lowered? Can’t see the treads at night? Too slippery when wet? Are we talking unsafe for all ages and body types or just certain ones? Without more information, I cannot say.