8 Common Keystone Cougar Problems

Every RV has problems. It’s common to perform small fixes here and there when something goes wrong. RVs simply aren’t built the way homes are, so they require a bit more maintenance. So you can expect that even with a Keystone Cougar, you may encounter some issues.

One of the most common problems with the Keystone Cougar is that the slides do not work properly. This can be a major problem because it can prevent you from being able to use your RV properly. However, there are other problems you may want to look out for as well.

common Keystone Cougar problems

Keystone Cougar Problems

Keystone makes exceptional RVs, and the Cougar model is a great entry-level model that’s affordable while still offering plenty of space and amenities.

However, when you purchase a cheaper RV, it increases the chances that you’ll have problems.

Here are some of the most common problems people encounter with their Keystone Cougar RVs.

1. Slides Don’t Work Properly

One of the most common problems people have with their Keystone Cougar RV is that the slides don’t work properly.

The slides are what make an RV feel more like a home, so when they’re not working, it can be extremely frustrating. Often, the problem is with the sensors that tell the slide when it’s fully open or closed.

Cleaning the sensors can usually fix the problem, but you may need to replace them if they’re damaged. Another cause of slide problems is a burnt-out motor. The motors are what power the slides, so if they’re not working, the slides won’t move.

Replacing the motor is usually the only fix for this problem. If you have hydraulic slides, you also need to troubleshoot the hydraulic system for leaks, hydraulic pump failure, or hydraulic fluid.

2. Water Leaks

Water leaks are another common problem with Keystone Cougars. Because RVs are constantly moving and shaking, it’s not uncommon for pipes to come loose and start leaking.

Often, you can simply tighten the fittings to stop the leak. However, if the leak is severe, you may need to replace the entire pipe.

Water leaks can also occur in the roof. The roof is constantly exposed to the elements, so it’s not uncommon for it to develop leaks over time. If you have a leak in your roof, you need to patch it as soon as possible to prevent water damage.

3. Electrical Problems

Electrical problems are also common in Keystone Cougars. Because RVs have so many different electrical components, it’s not uncommon for something to go wrong.

Often, the problem is with a loose wire or connection. You can usually fix this problem by tightening the connections or replacing the wires.

If you’re having electrical problems, it’s also a good idea to check the battery. The battery is what provides power to all of the RV’s electrical components, so if it’s not working properly, it can cause all sorts of problems.

Often, simply replacing the battery is all it takes to fix the problem.

4. A/C Unit Not Working

Another common problem people have with their Keystone Cougar is that the A/C unit stops working.

This can be a major problem, especially in hot weather. often, the problem is with the compressor, which is responsible for cooling the air. Replacing the compressor is usually the only way to fix this problem.

A temporary fix may be to turn off the air conditioner for about an hour to let the compressor thaw out and then turn it back on again. However, this isn’t very realistic in hot weather.

5. Furnace Not Working

If your furnace stops working, it can make it very difficult to stay warm in your RV. Often, the problem is with the igniter.

The igniter is responsible for lighting the pilot light, which then lights the burner. If the igniter is faulty, it won’t be able to light the pilot light, and the furnace won’t work. Replacing the igniter is usually the only way to fix this problem.

Another possible problem is that the pilot light itself is out. If this happens, you can try relighting it.

However, if it keeps going out, there may be a problem with the gas line or the thermocouple. These are both very serious problems that should be fixed by a professional.

6. Toilet Not Flushing

If your toilet won’t flush, it can be a very frustrating problem. Often, the problem is with the water line. The water line may be blocked or damaged, preventing water from flowing into the bowl. Often, simply unblocking the line is all it takes to fix the problem.

If the water line is not the problem, then there may be an issue with the valve. The valve is responsible for letting water into the bowl when you flush the toilet.

If the valve is damaged, it won’t be able to open, and the toilet won’t flush. Replacing the valve is usually the only way to fix this problem.

7. Refrigerator Not Working

If your refrigerator stops working, it can be a major problem. Often, the problem is with the cooling coils. The cooling coils are responsible for keeping the refrigerator cool.

If they become damaged, the refrigerator won’t be able to stay cool. Replacing the cooling coils is a simple fix by accessing the refrigerator components from the back side.

Another possible problem is that the fridge isn’t getting power. This can be caused by a blown fuse or a tripped circuit breaker. Replacing the fuse or resetting the breaker is usually all it takes to fix the problem.

8. Customer Service Isn’t Helpful

One of the most common complaints people have about Keystone is that their customer service isn’t very helpful.

Often, people have difficulty getting in touch with customer service or they feel like they’re not being helped when they do get through. If you’re having trouble with Keystone’s customer service, you may want to consider taking your business elsewhere.

There are plenty of RV dealerships and service shops that can help you fix your problems, no matter what brand of trailer you have.

You may also be able to find a mobile RV repair person in your area so you don’t have to hook your trailer up or take it anywhere.

These technicians may charge you for a site visit, but it’s worth it if you’re currently living in your camper and don’t want to pack up all your belongings.

Is Keystone A Good Brand of Camper?

Keystone is a great camper brand and they make many models that are high quality. For instance, the Keystone Avalanche is one of their top-of-the-line fifth wheel models, made with quality components and perfect for frequent traveling or full-time living.

However, the Cougar is a value model that may not be built with the same high quality parts, so it tends to have a few more problems and simply isn’t built for frequent travel or full-time living. It’s a great model for beginners who want to get a small taste of RVing without spending a lot of money.

If you’re interested in buying a Keystone Cougar, I recommend that you buy a used model. Used models are much cheaper and tend to have fewer problems than new models.

It may seem backwards, but a used model has already been vetted and the problems have likely already been diagnosed and fixed. You can find used Keystone RVs for sale from RV dealerships, private sellers, and online classifieds sites like RVTrader.com.

When you’re looking at used RVs, make sure to thoroughly inspect the RV for any signs of water damage, leaks, or other problems.

It’s also a good idea to have a professional RV technician inspect the RV before you buy it. They can help you identify any common potential problems and give you an estimate of what it would cost to fix them.

Conclusion 

Keystone RVs are a great option for beginner RVers who want to get a small taste of the RVing lifestyle. They’re relatively cheap and offer all the basic amenities you need for a comfortable RVing experience.

However, they’re not built for full-time living or frequent travel, so you may encounter quite a few common problems.

Madeline Cooper