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Summary

The 2020 Grand Design Momentum 397TH is a luxury fifth-wheel toy hauler that consistently earns strong marks for construction and interior fit-and-finish. Two active NHTSA recalls affect this model: one for refrigerator wiring (fire risk) and one for the LP gas regulator. Owner complaints cluster around slideout seals and hydraulic leveling — common wear items for this class but worth verifying on any used unit before purchase.

Active NHTSA recalls (2)

Refrigerator wiring may arc (fire risk)

22V-038

Grand Design RV, LLC is recalling certain 2013–2021 Momentum, Solitude, and Reflection recreational vehicles. A 110-volt wire in the refrigerator cabinet may be improperly secured, which could result in the wire contacting the refrigerator cooling unit, causing an electrical arc.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace any damaged wiring, and properly secure the wires, free of charge.

LP regulator may allow excessive gas pressure (fire risk)

21V-393

Grand Design RV, LLC is recalling certain 2016–2021 Imagine, Transcend, and Momentum travel trailers. The LP regulator that controls the LP gas pressure may fail, allowing excessive gas pressure that causes the appliance flame to increase.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the LP regulator, free of charge.

Sample owner complaints

Electrical · Refrigerator

After one year of use, the residential refrigerator stopped cooling intermittently. Dealer replaced the cooling unit under warranty. Similar failures reported by other owners in online forums.

Structure · Slide-outs

Property damage

Rear garage slide seal failed during a rainstorm, resulting in water intrusion and damage to interior carpeting and cabinetry. Seal was replaced under warranty but pattern of failure is ongoing.

Suspension · Leveling system

Hydraulic leveling pump lost pressure while leveling. Leak at a fitting required rebuild. Dealer service took three weeks due to parts availability.

Equipment · Awning

Main awning motor failed at 18 months, fabric had minor tears. Replacement parts were available and covered by extended warranty.

Known issues

1.Refrigerator wiring (NHTSA 22V-038). Improperly secured 110V wire may contact the cooling unit and arc, increasing fire risk. Free dealer remedy available.
2.LP regulator failure (NHTSA 21V-393). Regulator may allow excessive gas pressure, causing an oversized appliance flame. Free dealer replacement.
3.Slide seal deterioration. Reports of seal deformation and water intrusion on the rear garage slide within the first 3–5 years, especially on units stored outdoors.
4.Hydraulic leveling pump issues. Some owners report the 6-point leveling pump losing pressure or leaking at fittings after heavy use.
5.TPO roof seam lifting. Seam separation around vents and AC bases, typically after 4–6 years. Requires resealing.
6.Cabinet door hardware failures. European-style hinges known to wear and misalign with long-term use and vibration.
7.Awning fabric and motor wear. Fabric tears and motor replacements common after 5–7 seasons of regular use.
8.Residential refrigerator cooling. Some units report insufficient cooling in high ambient temps; DC-compressor units fare better than AC/DC-absorption.

Things to look for

Roof

Inspect the TPO membrane for bubbling, punctures, or loose seams around vents, AC shrouds, and the rear slideout topper. Check caulking dates and look for signs of patching.

Electrical

Verify refrigerator recall (22V-038) has been performed — ask for the dealer invoice or check the NHTSA VIN lookup. Test every GFCI outlet and verify 50-amp service under load (run AC + microwave + water heater simultaneously).

Plumbing

Pressure-test the fresh water system. Inspect PEX fittings behind access panels. Confirm LP regulator recall (21V-393) has been completed. Check tank sensor calibration.

Structural

Walk the entire floor in the bunk and garage area listening for soft spots. Look underneath for frame welds, suspension bushing wear, and signs of shock-absorber leakage. Cycle the leveling system through all 6 jacks.

Appliances

Test the refrigerator on all three power sources (shore, propane, DC). Run the furnace through a full heat cycle. Confirm the water heater ignites on both propane and electric elements. Verify the generator (if equipped) starts and produces stable 120V.

Common repairs & estimated costs

Slide seal replacement

$800–1,500 per slide

Hydraulic leveling pump rebuild

$2,000–3,500

TPO roof reseal or partial replacement

$1,500–4,000

Residential refrigerator replacement

$1,800–3,200

Awning fabric + motor assembly

$900–1,600

Furnace or water heater service

$300–900

Generator annual service

$200–500

Value notes & market analysis

2020 Momentum 397TH units hold value well in the luxury toy-hauler segment when they’re documented and both recall remedies have been completed. Expect asking prices around $58–72k depending on condition, options, and region. Negotiate 5–8% off for any unaddressed slide seal or leveling issues. Units with full service records, sealed roof in the last 2 years, and documented recall remedies command the top of the range. Comparable alternatives to cross-shop: Heartland Big Country, Keystone Montana High Country, DRV Mobile Suites.

2020 Grand Design Momentum 397TH

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