NHTSA Complaint #11704619 — 2023 WINNEBAGO TRAVATO

The window panel separated from its retaining track in the window frame. The sash (the part of the window that holds the acrylic panel) disengaged from the upper frame, and a portion of the retaining track was visibly deformed. The window is designed to remain secured in the frame during normal operation, but in this instance that did not occur. The detached sash and deformed track are available for inspection. This window is part of the vehicle’s exterior opening. Because the sash is no longer secured in the frame, the window cannot be safely operated or relied upon to remain in place. There is a risk that the panel could fall out during vehicle movement or while parked, allow water intrusion into the interior and compromise occupant safety or comfort. I have been advised that no manufacturer-approved replacement parts are currently available, and no interim guidance has been provided on how to safely secure or operate the window while awaiting replacement. The issue was inspected by an RV service technician. The technician confirmed that the sash had separated from the window frame, the retaining track/sash interface was deformed, and original replacement parts for this window are no longer available. I contacted the vehicle manufacturer (Winnebago) and the window manufacturer (Dometic). Both confirmed that the factory window assembly and key components are discontinued, no replacement parts are currently supplied through the manufacturer, and no interim repair or safety guidance has been provided. I have a quote to fabricate a possible but no guarantee fix. There were no warning lights, alerts, or messages on the vehicle prior to the window failure. The condition became apparent only when the sash could no longer engage with the frame. At this time, there is no manufacturer-supported path to replace or repair the window, and there is no guidance on how to safely operate the vehicle with this compromised window condition.