2003 Kawasaki Ninja recalls and problems

The 2003 Kawasaki Ninja has 1 safety recall and 5 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Kawasaki dealer.

Recalls
1
Complaints
5
Crashes / fires
2 / 0
Injuries / deaths
2 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2003 Kawasaki Ninja vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2003 Kawasaki Ninja recalls

Recall 02V-324: Electrical System

Reported Dec 6, 2002 · 9,787 vehicles affected · KAWASAKI MOTORS CORP.

Problem: On certain 2000 zx1200-a1/a1-l, 2001 zx1200-a2/a2-l, and 2002-2003 zx1200-b1/b1-l motorcycles, oil leaking from the alternator lead electrical connector can be deposited onto the rear tire.

Risk: This can create the potential for a loss of traction for braking or cornering, and can lead to a crash.

Fix: Dealers will seal the alternator lead wires. Owner notification began begin december 16, 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kawasaki at 1-949-770-0400.

2003 Kawasaki Ninja problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Engine and Engine Cooling3
Electrical System1
Power Train1
Steering1
Structure1

Most reported parts

  • Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Manifold/Header/Muffler/Tail Pipe — 2
  • Structure › Body — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 900 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2003 Kawasaki Ninja complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Engine and Engine Cooling · reported Dec 29, 2003
Consumer received a recall notice in october 2003. He was warned not to ride the motorcycle because the muffler would fall off. Consumer had been waiting more than 90 days for replacement.
Engine and Engine Cooling · at 2,000 miles · reported Nov 3, 2003
While driving 55 MPH muffler fell off without warning, causing motorcycle to run off the road. As a result, driver was unconscious and sprained his ankle. A week later, a recall was issued on the muffler brackets.
Steering · reported May 14, 2003
2003 kawaski ex500-d10---I was riding down the road and as I was down shifting the front wheel went on the shoulder of the road when the handle bars broke off in my hands, making it impossible for me to turn and I ran into the ditch and was thrown from the bike and broke my wrist. I believe that this is a defected motorcycle part[ thin handle bars ] that my body weight could make them break we have from the er to night that there has been other accidents like mine caused by the ninja bikes. That is a diffident design defect.
Electrical System · at 900 miles · reported Jan 21, 2003
While driving at any speed, vehicle's speed will start deceasing, until vehicle losses all power. The dealership has made several attempts to fix problem, but it still exist. Ts radiator overflowed. Electrical problems. Dealer could not find a remedy. Vehicle was also jumping out of 2nd and 3rd gear. Major service revealed engine was throwing oil. 2 bolts were tightened.

Other Kawasaki Ninja years

Compare all Kawasaki Ninja years · All Kawasaki models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2003 Kawasaki Ninja have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2003 Kawasaki Ninja: 02V-324 (electrical system). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2003 Kawasaki Ninja?

Owners report engine and engine cooling problems most often (3 reports), followed by electrical system (1). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 900 miles.

Are Kawasaki recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Kawasaki dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.