Indian Chieftain Recalls

The Indian Chieftain has 11 recalls spanning 2014 through 2024, with the most serious recent issue being an improperly routed crankshaft position sensor on 2023-2024 models that can cause the engine to stall without warning, raising the risk of a crash.

The 2024 model year also has a rear suspension pushrod that can buckle under load, potentially pinching the main wiring harness, damaging the coolant reservoir, or contacting the rear tire. The 2019 model year has two separate stall-related concerns: a defective 10-amp circuit breaker that can trip unexpectedly and cut all engine power, and a gear position switch that can display a false neutral reading, causing the motorcycle to lurch forward when the rider attempts to start it. That false neutral issue extends back through 2014-2019 models across the broader lineup.

Going back to 2015-2016 models, the rear brake master cylinder can lose pressure partially or completely, lengthening stopping distances when the rider applies the rear brake. The 2014-2016 models have an exhaust-related fire risk: an engine misfire can push unburned fuel through the exhaust system, raising exhaust temperatures to the point where fire becomes possible.

Lighting issues run through much of the production history. On 2017-2018 models, some units were fitted with a European-specification halogen headlight assembly rather than the correct US unit, reducing forward visibility. The 2018 model year has an electrical fault that can allow the motorcycle to start on its own; if parked in an enclosed space, this creates a carbon monoxide exposure risk. On 2019 Chieftains specifically, the tail lights can exceed the maximum permitted brightness, making it harder for following drivers to distinguish the running light from the brake light. Earlier 2014-2018 models can lose all front lighting, including the headlight, due to a failing vehicle control module electrical connection, and 2014 models have a separate vehicle control module software issue that can also cut the headlights while riding.