Owners have filed 107 complaints
about the 2003 Honda GL1800 with NHTSA between 2002 and 2020.
The largest single group is the body & structure.
Across this model's run it ranks 2 of 14 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 100
Against the median year of the Honda GL1800. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 24
4.7% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 100
73% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
610.7%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
1933.9%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
1323.2%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
916.1%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
35.4%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
47.1%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
23.6%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Aug 2002peak 9Sep 2020
NHTSA investigations into the 2003 Honda GL1800
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
AQ12001Opened 14 May 2012Closed 13 May 2013UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Southern Honda Powersports
NHTSA opened Audit Query (AQ) 12-001 to determine whether Southern Honda Powersports (Southern Honda) of Chattanooga, Tennessee, had complied with the requirements of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act, as amended, 49 U.S.C. Chapter 301 (Safety Act) and its implementing regulations. The Safety Act requires, among other things, that a motor vehicle or equipment manufacturer notify its dealers of defects related to motor vehicle safety and non-compliances with federal motor vehicle safety standards.In turn, a dealer may not sell and deliver a new vehicle subject to a recall unless...
RQ04009Opened 21 Sep 2004Closed 2 Feb 2005STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
FRAME CROSSMEMEBER WELD FAILURES
HONDA IS AMENDING THE SCOPE OF 03V-350 TO ADD 34,919 POTENTIALLY AFFECTED GL1800 GOLD WING MOTORCYCLES.THE INITIAL RECALL RANGE INCLUDED FRAMES MANUFACTURED WITH ONE OF A NUMBER OF WELDING PROCESSES.HONDA BELIEVED, ON THE BASIS OF DATA AVAILABLE AT THAT TIME, THAT ONLY THOSE GL'S BUILT WITH THAT ONE PROCESS WERE AT RISK OF FAILURE.WITH THE ORIGINAL RECALL (IN SEPTEMBER, 2003), HONDA INTRODUCED YET ANOTHER WELD PROCESS.SUBSEQUENTLY, HONDA BECAME AWARE OF INCIDENTS INVOLVING GL'S NOT INCLUDED IN THE ORIGINAL RECALL, BUILT USING ANOTHER EARLY WELDING PROCESS.THUS, HONDA HAS DECIDED TO RECALL ALL...
PE03039Opened 11 Aug 2003Closed 10 Oct 2003STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
REAR SUSPENSION COLLAPSE
THE SUBJECT MOTORCYCLES, INTRODUCED WITH THE 2001 MODEL YEAR, UTILIZE AN ALUMINUM FRAME INDIVIDUALLY WELDED BY HONDA EMPLOYEES IN THE COMPANY?S MARYSVILLE, OHIO ASSEMBLY PLANT.NHTSA/ODI OPENED THIS INVESTIGATION AFTER LEARNING THAT SOME 2002 MODEL YEAR GL1800?S WERE EXPERIENCING REAR SUSPENSION COLLAPSE WHEN THE LOWEST CROSSMEMBER WOULD COMPLETELY SEPARATE FROM THE FRAME.IT APPEARED THE CROSSMEMBER WAS SEPARATING DUE TO SUB-STANDARD WELDING OF THE CROSSMEMBER TO THE FRAME. ON SEPTEMBER 4, 2003 HONDA BRIEFED ODI STAFF AND ADVISED THAT THE SUBJECT WELD FAILURES RESULTED FROM A COMBINATION OF PRO...
PE02077Opened 15 Oct 2002Closed 28 Mar 2003ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
MOTORCYCLE COOLANT SPRAY ONTO REAR TIRE
SEE THE ATTACHED REPORT WITH ODI'SFINDINGS.
Recalls on the 2003 Honda GL1800
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
15V700000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (Honda) is recalling certain model year 2001-2010 and 2012-2015 GL1800, 2001-2005 GL1800A and 2013-2015 GL1800B motorcycles. The rear brakes of the affected motorcycles may drag after the brakes are released.
Risk: A rear brake that drags may increase the risk of a vehicle crash. Additionally, extended riding with the rear brake dragging could generate enough heat to result in a fire.
11E054000
EQUIPMENT
KURYAKYN IS RECALLING CERTAIN AFTERMARKET PASSENGER FLOORBOARD MOUNTS, PART NUMBER 607005, SOLD AND INSTALLED FOR USE ON 2001-2012 HONDA GL 1800 (GOLDWING) MOTORCYCLES. THIS MOUNT WAS SOLD ON KURYAKYN 'TRANSFORMER' PASSENGER FLOORBOARD SETS, PART NUMBER 7005 FROM SEPTEMBER 15, 2008, TO PRESENT. THE FLOORBOARD MOUNT MAY CRACK AND BREAK FREE FROM THE MOUNTING BOLTS THAT SECURE THE MOUNT TO THE MOTORCYCLE.
Risk: THE PASSENGER FLOORBOARD MAY SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN INJURY OR A CRASH.
11V567000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
HONDA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2001-2010, AND MODEL YEAR 2012 GL1800 GOLDWING MOTORCYCLES. UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE COMBINED BRAKING SYSTEM'S SECONDARY MASTER CYLINDER MAY CAUSE THE REAR BRAKE TO DRAG.
Risk: UNEXPECTED BRAKING INCREASES THE RISK OF A CRASH, AND RIDING THE MOTORCYCLE WITH THE REAR BRAKE DRAGGING MAY GENERATE ENOUGH HEAT TO CAUSE THE REAR BRAKE TO CATCH FIRE.
05V027000
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
ON SOME MOTORCYCLES, CERTAIN FRAME WELDS DO NOT MEET MANUFACTURING SPECIFICATIONS. HIGH LOADS CREATED WHEN RIDING ON ROUGH ROAD SURFACES OR THROUGH POTHOLES CAN CAUSE THE AFFECTED WELDS TO CRACK.
Risk: THE WELDED AREA COULD BREAK, RESULTING IN REAR SUSPENSION COLLAPSE OR LOWER CROSS MEMBER SEPARATION, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
05V010000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
CERTAIN MOTORCYCLES EQUIPPED WITH COMBINED-BRAKE SYSTEMS HAVE A PROPORTIONING CONTROL VALVE (PCV) THAT MECHANICALLY PROPORTIONS BRAKE FORCE WHEN THE REAR BRAKE IS APPLIED. A SEAL IN SOME PCVS IS IMPROPERLY SHAPED, AND BRAKE FLUID LEAKAGE MAY OCCUR.
Risk: IF THE MOTORCYCLE CONTINUES TO BE USED AFTER A LEAK OCCURS, THE REAR BRAKE WOULD EVENTUALLY BECOME INOPERATIVE. A LOSS OF REAR BRAKE FORCE COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
03V350000
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS
ON SOME MOTORCYCLES, CERTAIN FRAME WELDS DO NOT MEET MANUFACTURING SPECIFICATIONS. HIGH LOADS CREATED WHEN RIDING ON ROUGH ROAD SURFACES OR THROUGH POTHOLES CAN CAUSE THE AFFECTED WELDS TO CRACK.
Risk: THE WELDED AREA COULD BREAK, RESULTING IN REAR SUSPENSION COLLAPSE OR LOWER CROSS MEMBER SEPARATION, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
02V340000
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
ON CERTAIN MOTORCYCLES, THE BANK ANGLE SENSORS DESIGNED TO SHUT OFF THE FUEL PUMP AND THE ENGINE ELECTRICAL POWER IN THE EVENT THE MOTORCYCLE FALLS OVER, WERE INSTALLED USING THE WRONG SIZE SCREWS ALLOWING THE SCREWS TO EVENTUALLY DETACH FROM THEIR MOUNTING POINT.
Risk: IF THE SENSOR DETACHES, THE ENGINE WILL STOP UNEXPECTEDLY. SUDDEN LOSS OF ENGINE POWER, ESPECIALLY WHILE TURNING, COULD CAUSE A CRASH.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 201548810,663 units in Canada
Brakes
On certain motorcycles, the combined brake system's secondary master cylinder may cause the rear brakes to drag. Continued riding with the rear brake engaged/dragging may generate enough heat to cause the rear brake to catch fire. These issues could result in injury and/or property damage. Unexpected braking may also adversely affect vehicle stability, which could result in a crash. Correction: Dealers will replace the secondary master cylinder with one that has a modified check valve. In addition to replacing the secondary master cylinder, dealers will also replace the rear master cylinder and flush the brake fluid. Note: This recall supersedes recall 2014-326. All vehicles having been inspected and/or serviced under the previous recall will require re-inspection and repair.
Recall 20143268,654 units in Canada
Brakes
On certain motorcycles, the combined brake system’s secondary master cylinder may cause the rear brakes to drag. Unexpected braking may adversely affect vehicle stability, which could result in a crash. As well, continued riding with the rear brake engaged/dragging may generate enough heat to cause the rear brake to catch fire. These issues could result in property damage and/or personal injury. Note: This recall is superseded by recall 2015488.
Recall 20114208,654 units in Canada
Brakes
On certain motorcycles, the combined brake system’s secondary master cylinder may cause the rear brakes to drag. Unexpected braking may adversely affect vehicle stability, which could result in a crash. As well, continued riding with the rear brake engaged/dragging may generate enough heat to cause the rear brake to catch fire. These issues could result in property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the secondary master cylinder with an updated version.
Recall 20050164,368 units in Canada
Brakes
On certain motorcycles, an improperly shaped seal in the brake proportioning control valve could allow brake fluid leakage to occur. With continued use, a leak in the proportioning valve would cause the rear brake to eventually become inoperative. Although the front brake provides most of the braking function, a loss of rear brake force could increase the risk of a crash. Correction: Dealers will replace the brake proportioning valve.
Recall 20032302,510 units in Canada
Structure
On certain motorcycles, frame weld cracks could appear due to high loads created when riding on rough road surfaces or through potholes. In the worst case, the welded area could break, resulting in rear suspension collapse or lower cross member separation. Correction: Dealer will repair affected frames.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 8,000 milesChehalis, WACrash1 killed
SERVICE BRAKES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 HONDA GL1800 MOTORCYCLE. WHILE RIDING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE RIDER LOST CONTROL OF THE MOTORCYCLE AND CRASHED OFF THE SIDE OF A 25 FOOT HILL WHILE ATTEMPTING TO MANEUVER A BLIND HAIRPIN TURN. THE RIDER WAS FATALLY INJURED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE MOTORCYCLE WAS DESTROYED. PHOTOS FROM THE POLICE REPORT INDICATED THAT DURING THE INCIDENT, ONLY THE FRONT BRAKES WERE APPLIED, AND THE REAR BRAKE DID NOT APPLY. THE FAILURE OCCURRED AFTER THE RIDER DESCENDED DOWN A WINDING ROAD FOR APPROXIMATELY 15 MILES, CAUSING THE BRAKES TO BE USED EXCESSIVELY. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. IN DECEMBER 2015 (AFTER THE INCIDENT), THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V700000 (SERVICE BRAKES), WHICH WAS RELATED TO THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 8,000. *BF UPDATED 8/15/18
NHTSA complaint #11046593 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 87,000 milesMulberry, FL1 injured
POWER TRAIN
TRANS JUMPS OUT OF GEAR AND DOWN SHIFTS. WHILE DRIVING
NHTSA complaint #10807123 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 11,500 milesNEW Richmond, OHCrash
STEERING
I HAVE A HONDA GL1800 GOLDWING MOTORCYCLE. ALL THESE BIKES HAVE AN ISSUE WITH FRONT END WOBBLE WHILE DECELERATING BETWEEN 35-45 MPH. MY HONDA DEALER SAYS HONDA KNOWS ABOUT IT BUT HAVEN'T RECALLED IT YET BECAUSE THEY HAVE SO MANY OTHER RECALLS CURRENTLY ACTIVE. A REVIEW OF A WEB SITE OF OWNERS CALLED GL1800.ORG HAS HUNDREDS OF PEOPLE TALKING ABOUT THIS PROBLEM AND HOW TO FIX IT. MY HONDA DEALER SAYS THE BEARING IN THE STEERING COLUMN ISN'T SUFFICIENT AND IT WOULD COST ME ABOUT $300 TO HAVE IT REPLACED. MY BIKE IS STILL UNDER WARRANTY. HONDA WON'T REPAIR IT. HERE'S THE REAL PROBLEM. LAST NIGHT DURING A LIGHT RAIN I WAS TRAVELING HOME FROM WORK. AS I WAS DECELERATING AROUND A DOWNHILL CORNER, AROUND 40 MPH, THE WOBBLE BECAME SO BAD MY FRONT WHEEL LITERALLY SLIPPED OUT FROM UNDERNEATH ME CAUSING ME TO GO DOWN ON THE RIGHT CRASH BAR FOR A MOMENT. APPARENTLY IT WASN'T MY TIME TO GO BECAUSE AS QUICKLY AS I WENT DOWN I CAME BACK UP AND MAINTAINED CONTROL OF THE BIKE. I'M STILL PUZZLED HOW THIS HAPPENED AND HOW I RECOVERED FROM IT. BUT I KNOW THE CAUSE OF IT. IT'S THE FRONT END WOBBLE DUE TO SUB STANDARD BEARINGS BEING USED. THESE DISCUSSIONS ON WEBSITES AND WITH HONDA HAVE BEEN ONGOING FOR WELL OVER TWO YEARS. DOES HONDA HAVE TO HAVE DOCUMENTED DEATHS BEFORE SOMETHING CAN BE DONE? I DON'T UNDERSTAND HOW SUCH A SAFETY ISSUE CAN CONTINUE TO GO ON AND ON WITH NO ACTION BY SUCH A REPUTABLE COMPANY. PLEASE HELP TO FIX THIS SAFETY PROBLEM BEFORE LIVES ARE LOST. THIS IS A VERY SERIOUS PROBLEM.
NHTSA complaint #10118634 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 11,478 milesCollege Station, TX2 killed
SUSPENSION:REAR
HONDA GOLDWING 2003 ,REAR SUSPENSION CRACKES/BREAKS,CAUSING LOSE OF CONTROL TO TURN
NHTSA complaint #10028657 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
at 90,000 milesPlum, PA
STRUCTURE:BODY
TOLD BY HONDA THE FRAME RECALL WAS DONE IN 2012. IN 2020 I INSPECTED THE FRAME AND THERE ARE CRACKS IN THE FRAME AGAIN WHERE THE RECALL STATED THEY WOULD BE. THE REPLACEMENT FRAME IS CRACKING. BOTH MAJOR CRACKS ARE AT THE WELDS AT THE REAR PASSENGER FOOT PEGS
NHTSA complaint #11354733 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 138,000 milesPunxsutawney, PA
STRUCTURE:BODY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HONDA GL1800. THE CONTACT STATED THAT UPON INSPECTION IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE FRAME WAS FRACTURED. THE CONTACT INDICATED THAT THE FRACTURE WAS LOCATED AT THE MID SECTION OF THE LEFT SIDE OF THE MOTORCYCLE. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE LOCAL DEALER TRIKES BY RODNEY LOCATED AT 1672 LINDEN AVE, ZANESVILLE, OH 4370 WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT YET NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 05V027000 (STRUCTURE). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 138,000.
NHTSA complaint #11339911 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 42,000 milesMagnolia, TX
SERVICE BRAKES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HONDA GL1800. WHILE DRIVING AT 65 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS APPLIED HOWEVER FAILED TO RESPOND. THE CONTACT NOTICED THERE WAS NO BRAKE FLUID IN THE RESERVOIR. THE MOTORCYCLE WAS TAKEN TO CYCLE SHACK NORTH (1101 INTERSTATE 45 S, CONROE, TX 77301 (936) 756-9711) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT BRAKE FLUID WAS LEAKING AND THE POSITION CONTROL VALVE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 05V01000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC) WAS COMPLETED IN 2005 AND NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE WAS PROVIDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 42,000.
NHTSA complaint #11300063 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Alachua, FL
STRUCTURE:BODY
HONDA SAFETY RECALL SERVICE BULLETIN GL1800 #14 REVISED: SEPTEMBER 2008 STATES THAT MY MOTORCYCLE IS ONE OF THE AFFECTED UNITS FOR THE RECALL (I.E. THE FRAME WELDS NEED TO BE REINFORCED). THAT WORK HAS NEVER BEEN DONE. HOWEVER, THE RECORDS FOR DOING A VIN CHECK ONLY GO BACK 15 YEARS, AND A LOCAL HONDA DEALER SAYS NO FIX IS NEEDED.
NHTSA complaint #11233116 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Ballston Lake, NY
ENGINE
THE ENGINE RUN HOTTER THAN USUAL IN HEAVY TRAFFIC AND GOING UP HILL AT HIGHER RPM . ALL FANS ARE RUNNING OK AS EXPECTED BUT STILL WHEN EVER STUCK IN TRAFFIC AT 75 DEGREE TEMPERATURE OUTSIDE THE ENGINE TEMPERATURE SEEM TO CREEP UP HIGHER TOWARDS THE RED MARK . THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE AS IF THE ENGINE SPILL COOLANT , I AND MY PASSAGE RISK GETTING INTO AN ACCIDENT DUE TO SLIPPERY SURFACE. HAD IT CHECK BY THE PRO AND THEY ARE POINTING AT THE ECM . THIS SHOULD BE FIX AND IS HONDA'S RESPONSIBILITY . MANY OTHER OWNERS HAD PREVIOUSLY COMPLAINED OF SIMILAR ISSUES.
NHTSA complaint #11090454 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Tomball, TX
SERVICE BRAKES
2003 HONDA GOLDWING. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO MOTORCYCLES SUDDEN POWER LOSS AND BRAKE SYSTEM FAILURE ACCIDENT. *SMD
NHTSA complaint #10838235 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 8,000 milesChehalis, WACrash1 killed
SERVICE BRAKES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 HONDA GL1800 MOTORCYCLE. WHILE RIDING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE RIDER LOST CONTROL OF THE MOTORCYCLE AND CRASHED OFF THE SIDE OF A 25 FOOT HILL WHILE ATTEMPTING TO MANEUVER A BLIND HAIRPIN TURN. THE RIDER WAS FATALLY INJURED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE MOTORCYCLE WAS DESTROYED. PHOTOS FROM THE POLICE REPORT INDICATED THAT DURING THE INCIDENT, ONLY THE FRONT BRAKES WERE APPLIED, AND THE REAR BRAKE DID NOT APPLY. THE FAILURE OCCURRED AFTER THE RIDER DESCENDED DOWN A WINDING ROAD FOR APPROXIMATELY 15 MILES, CAUSING THE BRAKES TO BE USED EXCESSIVELY. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. IN DECEMBER 2015 (AFTER THE INCIDENT), THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V700000 (SERVICE BRAKES), WHICH WAS RELATED TO THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 8,000. *BF UPDATED 8/15/18
NHTSA complaint #11046593 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 15,180 milesMelrose PK, IL
WHEELS
I PURCHASED THE MOTORCYCLE ON 11/05/16 FROM IMOTORSPORTS IN ELMHURST ILL. FROM DAY ONE IT HAD A VERY BAD WOBBLE IN THE STEERING AND IF I WAS NOT HOLDING STRONGLY ONTO THE BIKE IT WOULD DEFINITELY CRASH. AFTER ASKING FOR A REPAIR TO THIS WOBBLE IMOTORSPORTS MANAGER JASON SAID THEY WOULD INSTALL A NEW SET OF TIRES ON IT AND THIS SHOULD SOLVE THE PROBLEM. THE BIKE ONLY HAD 15,158 MILES ON IT SO I THOUGHT FOR SURE THIS WOULD BE THE ANSWER. JASON TOLD ME THAT AFTER THE BIKE GOT USED TO THE NEW TIRES THAT THE WOBBLE WOULD GO AWAY. THE WOBBLE WOULD OCCUR ANYTIME IT WAS IN MOTION FROM 15-45 MPH. THE WOBBLE NEVER GOT ANY BETTER AND BEING A BIT NAIVE TO PURCHASING A VEHICLE FROM A DEALER THE 30 DAY WARRANTY EXPIRED AND WHEN I RETURNED ON 12/15/16 THEY SAID THEY COULDN'T HELP ME. NOW I HAVE A $13,000 MOTORCYCLE THAT I AM AFRAID TO RIDE. I RODE IT A FEW MILES IN APRIL AND MAY AND JUNE OF 2017 AND BECAUSE OF THE WOBBLE, THE PLASTIC SHROUD THAT IS SURROUNDING THE TIMING CHAIN CRACKED ON BOTH SIDES. I AM AT A STAND STILL NOW AND DONT KNOW WHAT TO DO. I ALSO DONT KNOW IF THE SEVERAL RECALLS ON THIS PARTICULAR YEAR GOLDWING HAVE BEEN ATTENDED TO. I FEEL SO BAD ABOUT THIS AND I DONT KNOW WHAT TO DO. I SAVED EVERY PENNY I COULD FOR 6 YEARS TO PURCHASE THIS MOTORCYCLE AND NOW I CANT AND AM AFRAID TO RIDE IT.
NHTSA complaint #11010116 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 15,180 milesMelrose PK, IL
STEERING
I PURCHASED THE MOTORCYCLE ON 11/05/16 FROM IMOTORSPORTS IN ELMHURST ILL. FROM DAY ONE IT HAD A VERY BAD WOBBLE IN THE STEERING AND IF I WAS NOT HOLDING STRONGLY ONTO THE BIKE IT WOULD DEFINITELY CRASH. AFTER ASKING FOR A REPAIR TO THIS WOBBLE IMOTORSPORTS MANAGER JASON SAID THEY WOULD INSTALL A NEW SET OF TIRES ON IT AND THIS SHOULD SOLVE THE PROBLEM. THE BIKE ONLY HAD 15,158 MILES ON IT SO I THOUGHT FOR SURE THIS WOULD BE THE ANSWER. JASON TOLD ME THAT AFTER THE BIKE GOT USED TO THE NEW TIRES THAT THE WOBBLE WOULD GO AWAY. THE WOBBLE WOULD OCCUR ANYTIME IT WAS IN MOTION FROM 15-45 MPH. THE WOBBLE NEVER GOT ANY BETTER AND BEING A BIT NAIVE TO PURCHASING A VEHICLE FROM A DEALER THE 30 DAY WARRANTY EXPIRED AND WHEN I RETURNED ON 12/15/16 THEY SAID THEY COULDN'T HELP ME. NOW I HAVE A $13,000 MOTORCYCLE THAT I AM AFRAID TO RIDE. I RODE IT A FEW MILES IN APRIL AND MAY AND JUNE OF 2017 AND BECAUSE OF THE WOBBLE, THE PLASTIC SHROUD THAT IS SURROUNDING THE TIMING CHAIN CRACKED ON BOTH SIDES. I AM AT A STAND STILL NOW AND DONT KNOW WHAT TO DO. I ALSO DONT KNOW IF THE SEVERAL RECALLS ON THIS PARTICULAR YEAR GOLDWING HAVE BEEN ATTENDED TO. I FEEL SO BAD ABOUT THIS AND I DONT KNOW WHAT TO DO. I SAVED EVERY PENNY I COULD FOR 6 YEARS TO PURCHASE THIS MOTORCYCLE AND NOW I CANT AND AM AFRAID TO RIDE IT.
NHTSA complaint #11010116 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 15,180 milesMelrose PK, IL
SUSPENSION
I PURCHASED THE MOTORCYCLE ON 11/05/16 FROM IMOTORSPORTS IN ELMHURST ILL. FROM DAY ONE IT HAD A VERY BAD WOBBLE IN THE STEERING AND IF I WAS NOT HOLDING STRONGLY ONTO THE BIKE IT WOULD DEFINITELY CRASH. AFTER ASKING FOR A REPAIR TO THIS WOBBLE IMOTORSPORTS MANAGER JASON SAID THEY WOULD INSTALL A NEW SET OF TIRES ON IT AND THIS SHOULD SOLVE THE PROBLEM. THE BIKE ONLY HAD 15,158 MILES ON IT SO I THOUGHT FOR SURE THIS WOULD BE THE ANSWER. JASON TOLD ME THAT AFTER THE BIKE GOT USED TO THE NEW TIRES THAT THE WOBBLE WOULD GO AWAY. THE WOBBLE WOULD OCCUR ANYTIME IT WAS IN MOTION FROM 15-45 MPH. THE WOBBLE NEVER GOT ANY BETTER AND BEING A BIT NAIVE TO PURCHASING A VEHICLE FROM A DEALER THE 30 DAY WARRANTY EXPIRED AND WHEN I RETURNED ON 12/15/16 THEY SAID THEY COULDN'T HELP ME. NOW I HAVE A $13,000 MOTORCYCLE THAT I AM AFRAID TO RIDE. I RODE IT A FEW MILES IN APRIL AND MAY AND JUNE OF 2017 AND BECAUSE OF THE WOBBLE, THE PLASTIC SHROUD THAT IS SURROUNDING THE TIMING CHAIN CRACKED ON BOTH SIDES. I AM AT A STAND STILL NOW AND DONT KNOW WHAT TO DO. I ALSO DONT KNOW IF THE SEVERAL RECALLS ON THIS PARTICULAR YEAR GOLDWING HAVE BEEN ATTENDED TO. I FEEL SO BAD ABOUT THIS AND I DONT KNOW WHAT TO DO. I SAVED EVERY PENNY I COULD FOR 6 YEARS TO PURCHASE THIS MOTORCYCLE AND NOW I CANT AND AM AFRAID TO RIDE IT.
NHTSA complaint #11010116 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 50,000 milesDefiance, OH
SERVICE BRAKES
BACK BRAKE FAILS COMPLETELY
NHTSA complaint #11006778 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 83,947 milesWaverly, IL
STRUCTURE:BODY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HONDA GOLDWING. THE DEALER INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND FOUND PREMATURE CRACKS IN TWO PLACES UNDER THE PASSENGER SIDE FLOORBOARDS. THE MECHANIC WAS TO FURTHER DIAGNOSE THE MOTORCYCLE TO DETERMINE WHAT PARTS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE. UPDATED 09/29/16*LJ
NHTSA complaint #10895396 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 83,947 milesWaverly, IL
SERVICE BRAKES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HONDA GOLDWING. THE DEALER INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND FOUND PREMATURE CRACKS IN TWO PLACES UNDER THE PASSENGER SIDE FLOORBOARDS. THE MECHANIC WAS TO FURTHER DIAGNOSE THE MOTORCYCLE TO DETERMINE WHAT PARTS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE. UPDATED 09/29/16*LJ
NHTSA complaint #10895396 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 87,000 milesMulberry, FL1 injured
POWER TRAIN
TRANS JUMPS OUT OF GEAR AND DOWN SHIFTS. WHILE DRIVING
NHTSA complaint #10807123 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 66,000 milesNEW Orleans, LA
ENGINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HONDA GOLDWING. WHILE IDLING WITH THE RPMS UNDER 1,000, THE MOTORCYCLE MADE A LOUD ABNORMAL NOISE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN THE MOTORCYCLE EXCEEDED 1,000 RPMS, THE NOISE SEIZED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 66,000.
NHTSA complaint #10748456 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 103,000 milesCanton, MI
STRUCTURE:BODY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HONDA GOLDWING GL 1800 MOTORCYCLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING SERVICED BY THE DEALER, THE DEALER ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE LEFT SIDE OF THE MOTORCYCLE FRAME WAS CRACKED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED BUT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 103,000.
NHTSA complaint #10444377 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Washington, DC
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
2003 HONDA GOLDWING MOTORCYCLE. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS RECALL 2001-2010 AND REAR BRAKES CAMPAIGN *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED SHORTLY AFTER HAVING HIS BRAKES SERVICED, HE HEARD AN UNUSUAL GRINDING NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR WHEEL. WHEN HE TOOK THE MOTORCYCLE TO THE DEALER, HE WAS INFORMED THE ROTOR AND BRAKES WERE COMPLETELY DESTROYED. THE DEALER INDICATED THE CONSUMER MUST HAVE RIDDEN THE REAR BRAKES EVEN THOUGH THE BRAKES WERE LINKED AND THE FRONT BRAKES WERE IN GOOD CONDITION. THE CONSUMER HAS SINCE TRADED THE MOTORCYCLE. THE CONSUMER REFERENCED RECALL# 11V567000.
NHTSA complaint #10441834 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 44,328 milesAttleboro, MA
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
I WAS RIDING MY 2003 GOLDWING GL1800 MOTORCYCLE AND CAME TO AN AREA OF THE ROAD WITH CONSTRUCTION, THERE WHERE SEVERAL SIGNS INDICATING FOR MOTORCYCLES TO USE CAUTION AND BUMPS. AFTER RIDING THRU THIS AREA AND GETTING BACK TO WHAT APPEARED TO BE NORMAL ROAD SURFACES, I CAME ACROSS A CUT OUT IN THE ROAD ABOUT 2 FEET WIDE WITH 3 SMALL WASH BOARDS POTHOLES. I HAD NO CHOICE BUT TO RIDE THRU THIS CUT-OUT AT A 90 DEGREE ANGLE AS TO BE AS SMOOTH AS POSSIBLE AND WHEN I CAME OUT OF THIS BUMP IT WAS LIKE I HAD A FLAT TIRE. THERE WAS A LOAD BANG AND GRINDING AS I TRIED TO KEEP THE BIKE UPRIGHT AND COME TO A STOP. THE BIKE BEHIND ME NOTED A LOAD NOISE AS WELL AS SPARKS FROM THE BIKES SUSPENSION AND PIPES BOTTOMING OUT. I LUCKILY WAS ABLE TO STOP SAFELY WITHOUT CRASHING AND AFTER FURTHER INSPECTION IT WAS DETERMINED, THAT IT WAS NOT A FLAT TIRE, NOR A SUSPENSION ISSUE. BUT IT TURNED OUT TO BE THE FRAME HAS BROKEN IN 2 PLACES, ALLOWING THE REAR TIRE TO GO UP INTO THE FENDER WELL OF THE BIKE, WITH THE CENTER STAND AND EXHAUST PIPES DRAGGING ON THE GROUND. HAD THIS HAPPENED AT A PLACE OTHER THAN WHERE I WAS GOING PERFECTLY STRAIGHT, THIS WOULD HAVE RESULTED IN A TERRIBLE CRASH. I AM THANKFUL THAT I AM UNHURT BUT LEFT WITH A BIKE THAT IN MY ESTIMATION IS JUNK AND I WONDER HOW I COULD EVER FEEL SAFE RIDING THIS BIKE AGAIN. I PURCHASED THIS BIKE FROM A PRIVATE PARTY WHO HAD INDICATED TO ME THAT THIS BIKE HAD BEEN IN FOR THE FRAME RECALL AS WELL AS THE BIKE BEING OWNED AND MAINTAINED BY A HONDA EMPLOYED AND TRAINED TECHNICIAN. I CURRENTLY HAVE THE MOTORCYCLE AT A HONDA DEALER AND AM AWAITING THE ANSWER FROM HONDA ABOUT IF THEY WILL FIX. I HAVE ALSO FOUND OUT THAT THIS BIKE HAD NEVER BEEN RECALLED OR INSPECTED OR REPAIRED AND WONDER WHY I NEVER RECEIVED A NOTICE THAT THIS MOTORCYCLE HAD NEVER BEEN FIXED. I HAVE OWNED IT FOR 3 YEARS NOW. I AM LUCKY THAT I WAS NOT HURT SERIOUSLY AND HONDA DOES RIGHT AND FIXES THIS BIKE WITHOUT ANY COST TO ME. HOW CAN I KNOW IT WON'T HAPPEN AGAIN.
NHTSA complaint #10342495 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 42,000 milesGrove City, OH
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
MY INCIDENT WITH A SPONTANEOUS DOWNSHIFT FROM 5TH GEAR TO 4TH GEAR (GHOST SHIFT) ON MY 2003 HONDA GOLDWING MOTORCYCLE OCCURRED ON HIGHWAY 89 NORTH OF FLAGSTAFF, ARIZONA IN 2007. IT WAS TOTALLY INDEPENDENT OF ANY INPUT BY ME. IT ACTUALLY DOWNSHIFTED AND IMMEDIATELY UPSHIFTED COMPLETELY BY ITSELF. I AM NOT SEEING ANY PATTERN OF THIS ISSUE. IT HAS HAPPENED THREE TIMES SINCE THE INITIAL OCCURRENCE WITH NO KNOWN 'TRIGGER' OR CLUE THAT IT IS ABOUT TO HAPPEN.
NHTSA complaint #10331349 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 26 milesMidville, GA
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
TRANSMISSION ON 2003 HONDA GOLDWING JUMPS FROM 5TH TO 4TH GEAR. THIS HAPPENS OFTEN AND HAS FOR SEVERAL OCCASIONS. IT CAUSES THE POTENTIAL OF LOSS OF CONTROL AND A CRASH.
NHTSA complaint #10300291 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 24,700 milesHamilton, NJ
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
THE FRAME OF MY 2003 HONDA GOLDWING MOTORCYCLE HAS DEVELOPED CRACKS IN THE FRAME TUBE BEHIND THE LEFT PASSENGER FOOT BOARD.
NHTSA complaint #10294649 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 22,180 milesEthridge, TN
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
MY 2002 HONDA GOLDWING 1800 TRANSMISSION FAILED ALMOST CAUSING A WRECK. THE TRANSMISSION WOULD JUMP OUT OF 5TH GEAR ON OCCASION AND GRADUALLY GOT WORSE UNTIL THE TRANSMISSION FAILED COMPLETELY. I HAD TO HAVE IT HAULED HOME AND THEN LATER ON HAD TO TAKE IT TO THE SHOP AND HAVE TRANSMISSION REPAIRED OUT OF MY POCKET. $3200 WORTH. IT IS A VERY UNSAFE ISSUE AND NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED BEFORE SOMEONE GETS INJURED.THERE ARE SEVERAL CASES OF THIS FROM VARIOUS PEOPLE I HAVE TALKED TO AND HONDA HAS DECIDED TO IGNORE THE COMPLAINTS SO WE HAVE NO OTHER CHOICE BUT TO FILE A SAFETY COMPLAINT. SOMEONE IS GOING TO GET KILLED IF THIS ISSUE IS NOT RESOLVED!!!
NHTSA complaint #10282473 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 32,000 milesSmyrna, DE
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HONDA GOLDWING MOTORCYCLE. HE NOTICED THAT THE FRAME WAS DEFECTIVE AND CRACKED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER HAVE NOT BEEN NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 32,000.
NHTSA complaint #10282064 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 45,200 milesBear, DE
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
THE FRAME IN MY 2003 HONDA GOLD WING HAS CRACKED. THE BIKE HAS BEEN RIDDEN NORMALLY TWO UP MOST OF THE TIME AND HAS NEVER BEEN IN A ACCIDENT. THE 2003 HONDA GOLD WING HAS ONLY 45,000 MILES OR SO. THIS MOTORCYCLE WAS ALREADY INVOLVED IN A SAFELY FRAME RECALL ORDERED BY THE GOVERNMENT IN LATE 2003. THIS FRAME CRACK IS IN A SPOT ON THE MOTORCYCLES FRAME THAT REQUIRES THAT YOU LAY UNDER THE BIKE TO INSPECT. IT'S VERY TIGHT AND HARD TO VIEW WITHOUT A MAGNIFYING GLASS AND GOOD LIGHT SOURCE. THIS DEFECT WILL BE MISSED BY MOST OWNERS UNLESS YOU HAVE SOME KNOWLEDGE ABOUT THIS POSSIBLE FRAME DEFECT. LEFT ALONE IT'S ONLY A MATTER OF TIME AND MILES BEFORE THIS CRACK WILL SPREAD AROUND THE ENTIRE FRAME TUBE AND CAUSE SEPARATION OF THE FRAME MEMBER. THERE HAVE BEEN MANY REPORTS OF THIS TYPE OF FRAME FAILURE ON THE HONDA GOLD WING MESSAGE BOARDS ON THE INTERNET.
NHTSA complaint #10233190 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 46,622 milesHoughton Lake, MI
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
THE FRAME ON MY 2003 HONDA GOLDWING CRACKED APRIL OF 2008. THE FRAME TUBING BROKE COMPLETELY ON THE LEFT SIDE, AND THE TUBING ON THE RIGHT SIDE WAS CRACKED 3/4 OF THE WAY AROUND. I HAD A TRIKE KIT ON THE BIKE, AND AT FIRST THOUGHT WAS THE PROBLEM BUT AFTER CHECKING AROUND, I FOUND THIS HAS HAPPENED BEFORE TO OTHER BIKES. SO ANYWAY THE FRAME WAS REPLACED, AND UPON INSPECTING THE NEW FRAME I FOUND A NICE GOOD SIZE GUSSET ON THE TUBE THAT WAS BROKEN ON MY ORIGINAL FRAME. I ALSO NOTICE THE PART NUMBER OF THE FRAME HAD BEEN CHANGED FROM THE ORIGINAL PART NUMBER. I HAVE PICTURES OF BOTH FRAMES.
NHTSA complaint #10230284 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.