The 2016 Forest River Surveyor is a well-regarded line of lightweight travel trailers, part of Forest River's extensive RV catalog. Known for its towability and family-friendly designs, the Surveyor series typically featured various floorplans across lines like Sport, Legend, and Cadet. New, these trailers ranged roughly from $20,000 to over $35,000. Its popularity stems from offering a versatile, feature-rich camping experience without requiring a heavy-duty tow vehicle, making it an accessible option for many RV enthusiasts.
The Good
The 2016 Forest River Surveyor offers significant advantages, appealing to both the heart and mind. Its lightweight design ensures easy towing and better fuel efficiency for your tow vehicle, a practical benefit. Emotionally, it promises comfortable adventures with diverse floorplans maximizing living space, creating a "home away from home." Known for competitive value and generally solid construction, it's a smart investment for memorable family experiences.
The Bad
Like many travel trailers, the 2016 Forest River Surveyor can exhibit weaknesses such as potential water intrusion points, which require diligent inspection. Owners should also watch for common RV issues like minor appliance malfunctions, sub-par fit and finish in some areas, and wear on seals or roofing materials over time, particularly if maintenance is neglected.
2016 FOREST RIVER Surveyor: Quick Overview
The 2016 Forest River Surveyor, being a travel trailer, does not have its own engine, horsepower, fuel economy, or 0-60 times. These metrics depend entirely on the tow vehicle used.
Key specifications and features commonly found in the 2016 Forest River Surveyor series include:
- Construction: Lightweight aluminum-framed superstructure with a smooth, durable fiberglass exterior. This construction aids in towability and offers good resistance to the elements.
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): Varies significantly by model and floorplan, typically ranging from approximately 5,000 lbs to over 8,500 lbs. Buyers must ensure their tow vehicle's capacity exceeds the trailer's GVWR.
- Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW): Also highly variable, from around 3,500 lbs for smaller models (e.g., Surveyor Cadet 160RBS) to over 6,500 lbs for larger, multi-slide models (e.g., Surveyor 32RLTS).
- Hitch Weight: Generally between 400 lbs to 900 lbs, depending on the specific model and loading.
- Interior Layouts: A wide array of floorplans were available across different Surveyor series (Sport, Legend, Cadet, etc.), designed to maximize space and functionality. Common configurations included models with rear bunks, front queen beds, sofa beds, U-shaped dinettes, and multiple slide-outs for expanded living areas.
- Kitchen Amenities: Standard kitchens featured a refrigerator, microwave, three-burner range with oven, and a double-bowl sink, providing essential cooking capabilities.
- Bathroom Facilities: Most models included a full bath with a toilet, shower/tub combo, and a sink with vanity.
- Climate Control: Equipped with a roof-mounted air conditioner and a propane furnace for year-round comfort.
- Water Systems: Fresh water, grey water, and black water tanks with capacities varying by model. A 6-gallon gas/electric DSI water heater was standard.
- Entertainment: Often included an AM/FM/CD/DVD stereo system with interior and exterior speakers, and a TV antenna with booster.
- Exterior Features: Power awning with LED light strip, exterior shower, pass-through storage compartments, stabilizer jacks, and an option for a power tongue jack on many models.
- Tires: Radial tires with aluminum rims were common, offering better durability and aesthetics.
- Safety Features: Breakaway switch, smoke detector, carbon monoxide detector, and LP detector.
2016 FOREST RIVER Surveyor Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2016 |
| Make | FOREST RIVER |
| Model | Surveyor |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Recreational Vehicle |
| Category | Special Purpose Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | GOSHEN |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | - |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | - |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | Not Applicable |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Not Applicable |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Not Applicable |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 2016 FOREST RIVER Surveyor Have?
The 2016 Forest River Surveyor, like most travel trailers, is susceptible to a range of frequently reported problems that diligent owners should be aware of. A common concern across RVs, including the Surveyor, is water intrusion. This can manifest as leaks around roof seams, window seals, or slide-out mechanisms, leading to significant interior damage, delamination, and potential mold growth if not promptly addressed. Regular roof inspections and sealant maintenance are crucial for prevention.
Appliance reliability can also be a mixed bag. Issues with the refrigerator, air conditioning unit, water heater, or furnace are not uncommon and can range from minor electrical faults to complete unit failures. Similarly, electrical and plumbing issues, such as loose wiring connections, faulty outlets, or minor pipe leaks, are periodically reported.
Another area of frequent concern pertains to fit and finish. Owners sometimes note issues like peeling interior trim, misaligned cabinet doors, or less durable upholstery materials, which might require attention over time. While the aluminum frame provides a good foundation, sustained use on rough roads or prolonged exposure to harsh weather can accelerate wear on suspension components, tires, and exterior seals.
Regarding recalls for the 2016 Forest River Surveyor, specific issues have been identified:
Long-term reliability of the 2016 Surveyor largely hinges on owner maintenance. Neglecting routine checks, especially for water seals and appliance functionality, will inevitably lead to more significant and costly problems down the road. These trailers, while generally durable for their class, require consistent care to ensure longevity.
Appliance reliability can also be a mixed bag. Issues with the refrigerator, air conditioning unit, water heater, or furnace are not uncommon and can range from minor electrical faults to complete unit failures. Similarly, electrical and plumbing issues, such as loose wiring connections, faulty outlets, or minor pipe leaks, are periodically reported.
Another area of frequent concern pertains to fit and finish. Owners sometimes note issues like peeling interior trim, misaligned cabinet doors, or less durable upholstery materials, which might require attention over time. While the aluminum frame provides a good foundation, sustained use on rough roads or prolonged exposure to harsh weather can accelerate wear on suspension components, tires, and exterior seals.
Regarding recalls for the 2016 Forest River Surveyor, specific issues have been identified:
- NHTSA Campaign Number 16V493000 (July 2016): Certain 2016-2017 Forest River travel trailers, including some Surveyor models, were recalled for a missing warning label related to the slide-out override. Without this label, users might not know to manually support the slide room, potentially allowing it to extend unintentionally, posing a safety risk.
- NHTSA Campaign Number 16V615000 (August 2016): This recall affected various 2016-2017 Forest River travel trailers, including Surveyor, due to an improperly installed LP (liquid propane) regulator. An incorrect installation could lead to a gas leak, significantly increasing the risk of fire or explosion.
Long-term reliability of the 2016 Surveyor largely hinges on owner maintenance. Neglecting routine checks, especially for water seals and appliance functionality, will inevitably lead to more significant and costly problems down the road. These trailers, while generally durable for their class, require consistent care to ensure longevity.
How long will the 2016 FOREST RIVER Surveyor last?
As a travel trailer, the 2016 Forest River Surveyor doesn't accumulate "mileage" in the traditional sense, but its years of service can be extensive, typically ranging from 10 to well over 20 years with diligent ownership and maintenance. Owner data consistently shows that the longevity of any RV, including the Surveyor, is directly proportional to the care it receives. Trailers stored indoors or under cover generally fare better than those exposed to harsh elements.
Long-term durability benefits from its lightweight aluminum frame and fiberglass exterior, which resist rust and provide a relatively robust shell. However, over time, key weaknesses emerge. The most critical is the potential for water damage from failing roof seams, window seals, or slide-out gaskets, which can lead to costly structural rot and delamination. Appliances like the refrigerator, AC unit, and water heater typically have a lifespan of 10-15 years, requiring eventual replacement. Exterior decals can fade and crack, and tires, suspension components, and the rubber roof (if applicable) will require periodic replacement. Consistent preventative maintenance is the ultimate determinant of its lifespan.
Long-term durability benefits from its lightweight aluminum frame and fiberglass exterior, which resist rust and provide a relatively robust shell. However, over time, key weaknesses emerge. The most critical is the potential for water damage from failing roof seams, window seals, or slide-out gaskets, which can lead to costly structural rot and delamination. Appliances like the refrigerator, AC unit, and water heater typically have a lifespan of 10-15 years, requiring eventual replacement. Exterior decals can fade and crack, and tires, suspension components, and the rubber roof (if applicable) will require periodic replacement. Consistent preventative maintenance is the ultimate determinant of its lifespan.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2016 Forest River Surveyor, as a towable travel trailer, does not feature driver-assistance technologies or crash-test ratings in the automotive sense. Its technological and safety provisions are geared towards enhancing the camping experience and ensuring the safety of its occupants while parked or in transit.
Built-in Tech: The primary "tech" involves functional controls for the RV's systems. This includes a centrally located monitoring panel that displays levels for fresh, grey, and black water tanks, as well as battery voltage. Controls for the water pump, water heater (gas/electric), and interior/exterior lighting (often energy-efficient LED throughout) are standard. Many models offered basic digital thermostats for the furnace and air conditioning.
Entertainment: For its time, the 2016 Surveyor came reasonably well-equipped. A standard feature was an AM/FM/CD/DVD stereo system, often Bluetooth-compatible, allowing for music streaming and movie playback. This system typically routed sound to both interior and exterior marine-grade speakers. A TV antenna with a booster was common, providing access to over-the-air channels, and many floorplans included dedicated TV mounts and pre-wired hookups in the living area and sometimes the bedroom.
Safety Features: Safety is paramount in any RV. The 2016 Surveyor included several crucial safety components:
Optional Features: Buyers could often enhance their Surveyor with options like a power tongue jack for easier hitching, electric stabilizer jacks for quick setup, a larger capacity air conditioner, an outdoor kitchen or grill hookup, and additional TV locations. Some models also offered features like solar panel pre-wiring or an upgraded entertainment system.
Built-in Tech: The primary "tech" involves functional controls for the RV's systems. This includes a centrally located monitoring panel that displays levels for fresh, grey, and black water tanks, as well as battery voltage. Controls for the water pump, water heater (gas/electric), and interior/exterior lighting (often energy-efficient LED throughout) are standard. Many models offered basic digital thermostats for the furnace and air conditioning.
Entertainment: For its time, the 2016 Surveyor came reasonably well-equipped. A standard feature was an AM/FM/CD/DVD stereo system, often Bluetooth-compatible, allowing for music streaming and movie playback. This system typically routed sound to both interior and exterior marine-grade speakers. A TV antenna with a booster was common, providing access to over-the-air channels, and many floorplans included dedicated TV mounts and pre-wired hookups in the living area and sometimes the bedroom.
Safety Features: Safety is paramount in any RV. The 2016 Surveyor included several crucial safety components:
- Breakaway Switch: A critical safety device that automatically applies the trailer brakes if it becomes disconnected from the tow vehicle during transit.
- Smoke Detector: Essential for detecting potential fires within the living space.
- Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detector: Monitors for dangerous levels of CO, a colorless, odorless gas that can be produced by propane appliances.
- LP Gas Detector: Alerts occupants to propane leaks, a significant fire hazard.
- Fire Extinguisher: Typically mounted near the entrance or kitchen area for immediate use.
- Safety Chains: Required by law to provide a secondary connection to the tow vehicle.
Optional Features: Buyers could often enhance their Surveyor with options like a power tongue jack for easier hitching, electric stabilizer jacks for quick setup, a larger capacity air conditioner, an outdoor kitchen or grill hookup, and additional TV locations. Some models also offered features like solar panel pre-wiring or an upgraded entertainment system.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2016 FOREST RIVER Surveyor Prices and Market Value
When new in 2016, the Forest River Surveyor travel trailer typically ranged from approximately $20,000 for smaller, more basic models to over $35,000 for larger, more feature-rich units with multiple slide-outs. As of 2024, current used market prices for a 2016 model can vary significantly, generally falling between $12,000 and $25,000, depending heavily on its condition, size, specific floorplan, and included options.
Depreciation for RVs, including the Surveyor, is generally steeper in the initial years compared to passenger vehicles, often losing 20-30% of its value in the first few years. After this initial drop, the depreciation curve tends to flatten out. Key factors profoundly affecting resale value include the absence of water damage (the biggest concern for RV buyers), a well-documented maintenance history, overall cleanliness and condition of both interior and exterior, and the functionality of all appliances and systems. Popular floorplans, particularly those with bunk beds or large living areas, tend to hold their value better, as do units with desirable features like power awnings, outdoor kitchens, or enclosed underbellies.
Depreciation for RVs, including the Surveyor, is generally steeper in the initial years compared to passenger vehicles, often losing 20-30% of its value in the first few years. After this initial drop, the depreciation curve tends to flatten out. Key factors profoundly affecting resale value include the absence of water damage (the biggest concern for RV buyers), a well-documented maintenance history, overall cleanliness and condition of both interior and exterior, and the functionality of all appliances and systems. Popular floorplans, particularly those with bunk beds or large living areas, tend to hold their value better, as do units with desirable features like power awnings, outdoor kitchens, or enclosed underbellies.
2016 FOREST RIVER Surveyor Cost of Ownership
Owning a 2016 Forest River Surveyor involves distinct costs beyond the purchase price. Insurance premiums are generally lower than for motorized RVs, varying based on coverage and location, but are a necessary annual expense. Fuel costs are indirect, as they pertain to the increased consumption of the tow vehicle while pulling the trailer.
Maintenance is crucial and ongoing, including annual roof inspections and sealant application, wheel bearing re-packing every 10,000-12,000 miles, tire rotation and replacement, and seasonal winterization/de-winterization. Repair costs can escalate quickly, especially if major components like the refrigerator, AC unit, or water heater fail. Furthermore, neglected water leaks can lead to extremely expensive structural repairs.
Long-term ownership costs also factor in storage fees if not kept at home, and potential upgrades or replacements of interior elements. While more economical to own than a large motorhome, a travel trailer like the Surveyor still represents a significant financial commitment beyond its initial purchase, requiring consistent budgeting for its upkeep to remain a reliable recreational vehicle.
Maintenance is crucial and ongoing, including annual roof inspections and sealant application, wheel bearing re-packing every 10,000-12,000 miles, tire rotation and replacement, and seasonal winterization/de-winterization. Repair costs can escalate quickly, especially if major components like the refrigerator, AC unit, or water heater fail. Furthermore, neglected water leaks can lead to extremely expensive structural repairs.
Long-term ownership costs also factor in storage fees if not kept at home, and potential upgrades or replacements of interior elements. While more economical to own than a large motorhome, a travel trailer like the Surveyor still represents a significant financial commitment beyond its initial purchase, requiring consistent budgeting for its upkeep to remain a reliable recreational vehicle.
2016 FOREST RIVER Surveyor Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
NOT Applicable
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2016 FOREST RIVER Surveyor Insurance
Insurance for a 2016 FOREST RIVER Surveyor is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Recreational Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2016 FOREST RIVER Surveyor Compare to Other Recreational Vehicle?
The 2016 Forest River Surveyor competes in the highly saturated lightweight travel trailer segment, directly stacking up against popular rivals such as the Jayco Jay Flight SLX, Keystone Bullet/Passport, and the Coachmen Catalina. In terms of "performance" (referring to ease of towing and stability), the Surveyor is generally competitive. Its aluminum-framed, fiberglass-sided construction contributes to a lighter overall weight, making it an attractive option for owners with half-ton trucks or larger SUVs, similar to its rivals which also prioritize towability.
Regarding features, the Surveyor offers a comparable array of amenities to its competitors. It typically provides a good balance of interior living space, kitchen facilities, full bathrooms, and entertainment options that align closely with what's found in a Jay Flight SLX or a Keystone Bullet. While specific standard inclusions might vary slightly, all these brands aim for similar comfort and convenience for family camping.
Reliability is perhaps the most challenging metric for any travel trailer, as it's heavily influenced by manufacturing consistency and owner maintenance. The 2016 Surveyor's reliability is generally on par with its direct competitors. Common RV issues like potential water leaks, appliance malfunctions, and fit-and-finish imperfections are not exclusive to Forest River and can be found across all brands in this class. No single brand stands out as definitively superior in avoiding these prevalent RV challenges.
From a price perspective, the Surveyor typically positioned itself competitively in the mid-range market. New, it offered a strong value proposition against its peers, and on the used market, it maintains a similar price point relative to comparable models from Jayco or Keystone in similar condition.
Similar Alternatives:
Ultimately, the choice among these alternatives often comes down to specific floorplan preferences, minor feature differences, and personal brand loyalty, as their overall offerings and long-term ownership experiences are very similar.
Regarding features, the Surveyor offers a comparable array of amenities to its competitors. It typically provides a good balance of interior living space, kitchen facilities, full bathrooms, and entertainment options that align closely with what's found in a Jay Flight SLX or a Keystone Bullet. While specific standard inclusions might vary slightly, all these brands aim for similar comfort and convenience for family camping.
Reliability is perhaps the most challenging metric for any travel trailer, as it's heavily influenced by manufacturing consistency and owner maintenance. The 2016 Surveyor's reliability is generally on par with its direct competitors. Common RV issues like potential water leaks, appliance malfunctions, and fit-and-finish imperfections are not exclusive to Forest River and can be found across all brands in this class. No single brand stands out as definitively superior in avoiding these prevalent RV challenges.
From a price perspective, the Surveyor typically positioned itself competitively in the mid-range market. New, it offered a strong value proposition against its peers, and on the used market, it maintains a similar price point relative to comparable models from Jayco or Keystone in similar condition.
Similar Alternatives:
- Jayco Jay Flight SLX: Often lauded for its slightly more robust construction and customer service, it's a very strong alternative offering similar floorplans and price points.
- Keystone Bullet/Passport: These lines are also highly popular for their lightweight design and wide variety of layouts, directly competing with the Surveyor in features and value.
- Coachmen Catalina: Another strong contender, offering diverse floorplans and a solid reputation within the lightweight travel trailer segment.
Ultimately, the choice among these alternatives often comes down to specific floorplan preferences, minor feature differences, and personal brand loyalty, as their overall offerings and long-term ownership experiences are very similar.
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 FOREST RIVER Surveyor a Good Recreational Vehicle?
The 2016 Forest River Surveyor is an ideal travel trailer for first-time RV owners, couples, and small to medium-sized families seeking a versatile, lightweight camping experience without the need for a heavy-duty tow vehicle. Its diverse range of floorplans makes it suitable for various camping styles, from weekend warriors to longer vacationers.
It is absolutely worth buying on the used market, where it offers significant value compared to its new price. However, this comes with a crucial caveat: a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified RV technician is non-negotiable. Focus on models with a clear history of preventative maintenance, particularly concerning roof and seal integrity, to mitigate the risk of costly water damage. Pay close attention to the functionality of all appliances and the overall condition of the interior and exterior.
While specific "trims" aren't the primary differentiator for travel trailers, choosing a floorplan that perfectly matches your lifestyle needs (e.g., bunk beds for kids, large dinette, amount of slide-outs) is key to long-term satisfaction. Provided it passes a rigorous inspection and meets your spatial requirements, a well-cared-for 2016 Surveyor can provide many years of enjoyable and memorable adventures.
It is absolutely worth buying on the used market, where it offers significant value compared to its new price. However, this comes with a crucial caveat: a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified RV technician is non-negotiable. Focus on models with a clear history of preventative maintenance, particularly concerning roof and seal integrity, to mitigate the risk of costly water damage. Pay close attention to the functionality of all appliances and the overall condition of the interior and exterior.
While specific "trims" aren't the primary differentiator for travel trailers, choosing a floorplan that perfectly matches your lifestyle needs (e.g., bunk beds for kids, large dinette, amount of slide-outs) is key to long-term satisfaction. Provided it passes a rigorous inspection and meets your spatial requirements, a well-cared-for 2016 Surveyor can provide many years of enjoyable and memorable adventures.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.