Indian Chieftain Dark Horse Recalls

The Indian Chieftain Dark Horse has 6 recalls spanning 2016 through 2024, with the most serious recent issue affecting 2023–2024 models where an improperly routed crankshaft position sensor 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 shares the engine stall concern through a different cause: a 10-amp circuit breaker can trip unexpectedly, cutting power to the engine mid-ride.

Going back to 2018, an electrical system defect can allow the motorcycle to start on its own; if parked in an enclosed space, the running engine can build up carbon monoxide to dangerous levels. The 2016–2018 model years have a vehicle control module electrical connection that can fail and cut power to the front lights, including the headlight, reducing visibility at night or in low-light conditions. The 2017–2018 model years may have been fitted with a European-specification halogen headlight rather than the correct US-market unit, producing a light pattern that does not meet domestic standards and can reduce how well the motorcycle is seen by other road users.