2019 Palomino SS-1251 — Should You Buy One?
Typical asking price: $9,000–$14,000. There is 1 high-severity known issue you need to know before handing over a check.
Kestrel Take
The Palomino SS-1251 is a hybrid trailer — hard sides with fold-out canvas sleeping areas like a pop-up camper. Best of both worlds for some buyers: more weather protection than a tent trailer, lighter than a full hard-side. Canvas tent ends are the primary wear item to inspect.
Known Issues for the 2019 Palomino SS-1251
Ranked by wallet impact. These are documented, recurring problems — not freak accidents.
The fold-out canvas sleeping area deteriorates with UV exposure, mildew, and age. Check for brittleness, cracks, leaks, and mold on the canvas.
Repair cost range: $500-$2,000 to replace canvas
Zippers on the canvas ends wear and fail. Check that all zippers run smoothly and seal correctly.
Repair cost range: $50-$200 per zipper repair
The fold-out bunk mechanism needs regular lubrication. Seized or grinding components indicate neglect.
Repair cost range: $50-$200
Walk-Away Red Flags
- ✗Canvas that is brittle, cracked, or shows mold or mildew
- ✗Zippers that won't close or seal
- ✗Fold-out bunks that bind or grind during deployment
Good Signs
- ✓Canvas flexible and mildew-free
- ✓All zippers closing and sealing correctly
- ✓Fold-out mechanism operating smoothly with no binding
Found a specific Palomino SS-1251?
This page covers what goes wrong on the 2019 Palomino SS-1251 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.