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2019 Heartland Bighorn 3870FB — Should You Buy One?

Typical asking price: $45,000–$65,000. There are 2 high-severity known issues you need to know before handing over a check.

Kestrel Take

Heartland is a solid mid-range fifth wheel builder with better-than-average construction at the Bighorn level. The 3870FB is a large, well-appointed rig for families or couples who live in their trailer. Multiple slides mean multiple seal inspection points — do all of them.

Known Issues for the 2019 Heartland Bighorn 3870FB

Ranked by wallet impact. These are documented, recurring problems — not freak accidents.

Slide-out seals (multiple slides)High — wallet impact

Large fifth wheels with multiple slides have multiple potential water intrusion points. Press every slide floor corner.

Repair cost range: $500-$8,000

Roof membrane and nose cap seamHigh — wallet impact

The nose cap-to-roof seam on fifth wheels is a common failure point. Inspect carefully and look for any water staining at the front interior wall.

Repair cost range: $300-$5,000

Landing gear motor and leg alignmentMedium

Large fifth wheels are heavy — landing gear motors work hard and can fail. Legs that don't extend evenly cause leveling problems.

Repair cost range: $300-$800

Walk-Away Red Flags

  • Soft spots in any slide floor
  • Front wall water staining — nose cap leak
  • Landing gear that grinds or extends unevenly
  • Roof sealant cracked or missing anywhere

Good Signs

  • Annual Heartland dealer or RV dealer service records
  • All slides cycling smoothly
  • Landing gear extending evenly and quickly
  • Front interior wall clean and dry

Found a specific Heartland Bighorn 3870FB?

This page covers what goes wrong on the 2019 Heartland Bighorn 3870FB in general. The Kestrel report covers this specific car— the asking price vs. market, the photos, the seller's description, and a BUY / NEGOTIATE / WALK AWAY verdict with a negotiation script.

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Known issues on this page are based on documented owner reports, NHTSA complaints, class-action records, and manufacturer technical service bulletins. Individual vehicles vary. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is always worth doing.