Thule  Tepui Van Ladder - 9 Steps

I purchased this ladder less than a year ago. I was pleased with the ladder and its operation. That is, until a small plastic part broke. Seems simple enough, purchase $2 replacement part pull a screw out, replace the part, good to go. Nope, Thule has no parts. You must purchase a nee $250 ladder on a positive note, I am happy to find this out now, I was just about ready to purchase $1k Thule roof box. No thanks, I will buy the competitor’s product now. Thule, you lost a good customer over a cheap plastic part. Bummer.

I really liked the idea of this ladder, and was looking forward to using it to install my roof rack. When extending the ladder to use it for the first time, it came apart and would not go back together. I was very disappointed and had to return it. I expected better quality from Thule, especially for the price.

Ive done a lot of research, and this one was the best of the rest. The ease of operation and mounting is perfect. Well, engineered and quality superb. I bought it for my sprinter van and it’s perfect to reach the roof in all directions without worries of denting, or scratching the sides. I have recommended this ladder to my group and at least 20 have purchased through my recommendations and enjoying them!

I haven't used the ladder yet, but have tried it out in the garage. We have a 4 wheel camper and primarily want to use it to get snow off the top in the winter. also to maintain the solar panel on the roof. The 4 wheel camper is aluminum so can't use the magnetic stabilizer, not sure how that is going to work unless we mount the stabilizer to the camper. the ladder is super sturdy and should do the job, but it is much heavier and larger than I expected... will be challenging to find a place to store it when traveling but I think it will work for what we are needing.

Works great unless it’s cold. Freezes up solid in even moderate cold weather like upper teens. Pretty much worthless in cold weather - won’t open or close easily.

I really like the build, it feels solid and high quality. The magnetic holder is a plus especially if you are using it in the outdoors. Perfect height to reach the roof of the Sprinter and clean the solar panels. The only item I found a little difficult was to attach the magnetic holder as I had to reach up high before using the ladder. it attaches quickly and safely, but you kind of have to step on the ladder to secure the ladder to it. A quick click and attach support would have been optimal. Also they provided 3 clear circular stickers to attach to the car. It limits the locations of where to attach the mag holder and probably is going to yellow over time. I thought it was a bit weird and will not use it, of course, if not careful one could scratch the paint. But it is an outdoor van anyway.

There is no information on the size of this ladder when it is telescoped down for travel. Does anyone know that?

This is more than just a ladder; it’s a super ladder for so many things you need to be “just a little bit taller” to do! Particularly if you’ve got a van, or B-class Motorhome, this ladder should be a standard accessory or tool for your travels. Everything from washing the van to checking on your solar panels and other mounted attachments is so much simpler, and safer, with this ladder! Two quick things to focus on. First is that it comes with a “magnetic fixation device” that will securely keep the ladder “and you” in place, preventing your slipping or falling. That’s simply brilliant! The second great feature is that it utilizes a gas enabled safety system for lowering the rungs of the ladder so that you want have it come slamming down on your fingers. Wonderful, and your hands and fingers will thank you! If you want a sincere, unbiased recommendation, mine is simple. Buy it; don’t leave home without it!

Solid, quality build. I much prefer the ability to move this around compared to an attached ladder.

As usual with Thule products, this one is great - very tall when extended, really firm hold on the van, and an incredibly easy disconnect. The only thing they could have done better is a more efficient storage of the magnet inside the staircase bag.