MotorGuide X3-70SW Salt Water Digital Hand Control Bow Mount Trolling Motor - 70lbs-50-24V

I bought the MotorGuide X3 and for me it was a mistake. Other than one visit to a service center, to correct a loose tiller handle (motor would not turn off), the motor has performed ok. The problem I have is that the unit is a saltwater model and with only short visits to the coast, the unit is corroding already. The coating is peeling off the motor mount, the coating on the motor is lifting and other hardware on the mount is heavily rusted, but not all parts. Clearly some of the motor mount parts were not stainless or just poor quality stainless. I understand that the motor itself cannot be stainless, but with the discoloration around the shaft connection point, I can see problems coming. I contacted MotorGuide and they told me this is normal and that the system is not what they consider as corrosion, after viewing pictures from the service center. And yes, the motor is new enough to still be under warranty. They told me I didn't wash the motor enough which is total cop out speculation. I always wash my boat after trips to the coast. My opinion is just one, so take it as you like. I blame myself as I was told by one service center not to buy from MotorGuide. I did some homework, checked prices and ultimately chose MotorGuide because my previous unit was a MotorGuide and lasted more than 10 years. What I didn't realize is that MotorGuide is now made in China. Do yourself a favor before buying a new trolling motor – call your service center (make sure they don't rep any certain brand) an ask them which company stands behind their product – then choose.