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.
What we checked
Not checked against public records
Motorhomes are in NHTSA’s database and we intend to use it. We have not switched it on yet because recall notices name sub-brands and floorplans rather than the model we key on, and folding them in carelessly would put another coach’s recall on this page. What follows is our own write-up, and it has not been reconciled against an official record. Treat it as a starting point, not a verdict.
Known Issues for the 2019 Heartland Bighorn 3870FB
Ranked by wallet impact. These are documented, recurring problems — not freak accidents. How we decide that.
Large fifth wheels with multiple slides have multiple potential water intrusion points. Press every slide floor corner.
Repair cost (estimate): $500-$8,000
Source: not yet checked against public records.
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 (estimate): $300-$5,000
Source: not yet checked against public records.
Large fifth wheels are heavy — landing gear motors work hard and can fail. Legs that don't extend evenly cause leveling problems.
Repair cost (estimate): $300-$800
Source: not yet checked against public records.
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
More from Heartland
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Also in the guide: Vans (Cargo & Passenger)
Also in the guide: Trailers & Campers
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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.
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