Summary
The Yamaha YZF-R3 has 14 recalls spanning 2015 through 2021, with the most serious being a fuel tank bracket defect on 2015-2016 models where engine vibration causes the mounting bracket to wear against the tank, eventually cracking it and allowing fuel to leak near potential ignition sources.
The 2015-2016 models also have a corrosion issue in the ignition switch where water intrusion can cause the engine to stall unexpectedly while riding. On 2015 models specifically, there are several additional concerns: a fuel tank fitting bracket separate from the mounting bracket can crack the tank through the same vibration mechanism; the upper triple clamp, which holds the handlebars to the fork, can crack and cause a complete loss of steering; the radiator hose material can crack and leak coolant onto the rear tire, reducing traction; and the clutch pressure plate bearing can break under regular use, causing the clutch to fail and gears to shift improperly while the oil pump drive gear takes on excess stress. There is also a transmission torsion spring on 2015 models that can break and make shifting gears difficult or impossible.
The 2019 model year has two brake-related recalls: incorrectly routed horn wiring can contact and damage the brake hose, and an incorrect front brake hose holder can let the hose shift and be cut by the front fork. Either failure can cause a brake fluid leak and reduce braking ability. The 2019 model also has a VIN labeling issue where the compliance label and the frame-stamped number do not match, which also applies in a related filing to 2019-2021 models. On 2017 models, US-specification certification labels were applied to Canadian-market motorcycles.
Going back to 2015, the rear reflectors can degrade and return less light to following drivers. A broader reflector issue covers 2015-2020 models, where condensation or contaminants can cloud the rear reflector lens and reduce rearward visibility.
