2018 Kawasaki Ninja recalls and problems
The 2018 Kawasaki Ninja has 2 safety recalls and 2 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Kawasaki dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2018 Kawasaki Ninja vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2018 Kawasaki Ninja recalls
Recall 20V-676: Electrical System, Power Train
Problem: Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Ninja H2 SX, Ninja H2 SXSE, and 2019-2020 Ninja H2 SXSE+ motorcycles. In the event of a gear misengagement the engine electronic control unit (ECU) programming doesn't have the capability to suppress high RPM during transmission. If the transmission gears are not properly engaged while shifting into 4th or 5th gear, high engine RPM can cause the output gears of 4th or 5th to fracture when the gears re-engage.
Risk: Damaged gears and the inability to shift can cause the engine to lock up, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: KMC will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the FI-ECU software, free of charge. Owners are advised to not ride their motorcycle until the repair has been completed. The recall began November 16, 2020. Owners may contact KMC customer service at 1-866-802-9381. KMC's number for this recall is MC20-10.
Recall 18V-580: Structure
Problem: Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (Kawasaki) is recalling certain 2018 Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE (ZXT02BJ) motorcycles. The pin for the center stand spring may have been improperly welded, and, as a result, the pin may shift or fall off resulting in the spring detaching and the center stand dropping to the ground unexpectedly and dragging while riding.
Risk: The dragging center stand can cause a loss of control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Kawasaki will notify owners, and dealers will replace the left center stand bracket, free of charge. Owners may contact Kawasaki customer service at 1-866-802-9381. Kawasaki's number for this recall is MC18-05.
2018 Kawasaki Ninja problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Power Train | 2 | |
| Engine | 1 |
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 4 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 2018 Kawasaki Ninja complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Kawasaki Ninja years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2018 Kawasaki Ninja have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2018 Kawasaki Ninja: 20V-676 (electrical system, power train), 18V-580 (structure). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2018 Kawasaki Ninja?
Owners report power train problems most often (2 reports), followed by engine (1). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 4 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.