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2003 Kawasaki VN1500-L4 recalls and problems

The 2003 Kawasaki VN1500-L4 has 1 safety recall and 2 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Kawasaki dealer.

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

Recalls may cover only some 2003 Kawasaki VN1500-L4 vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2003 Kawasaki VN1500-L4 recalls

Recall 04V-023: Engine and Engine Cooling

Reported Jan 12, 2004 · 6,958 vehicles affected · KAWASAKI MOTORS CORP., U.S.A.

Problem: On certain 2003 vulcan 1500 classic, 1500 drifter, 2003-2004 1500 mean streak, 2003 1600 classic, and 2003-2004 nomad fl model motorcycles, high oil pressure upon a cold start-up can deform the oil filter cartridge.

Risk: This could cause oil to leak from the oil filter, which could result in a crash.

Fix: Dealers will replace the oil filter. Owner notification began on february 2, 2004. Owners should contact kawasaki at 1-949-770-0400.

2003 Kawasaki VN1500-L4 problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Engine and Engine Cooling1
Tires1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 170,345 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 VN1500-L4 complaints

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

Tires · at 85,495 miles · reported Sep 22, 2013
The rubber on my rear tire (160/80 b 16 m/c 75h) broke at the tread groves and separated from the casing, causing the tire to go flat. Fortunately the bike was parked when the tire went flat. This is the second incident I have had with this brand and model. The first the sidewall had separated resulting in a large bulge. It also went flat while parked. Tire pressures are checked once per week and before any long trip. Pressure is maintained at 40psi per manuf. Spec
Engine and Engine Cooling · at 170,345 miles · reported Oct 27, 2006
Kawasaki's unlimited mileage warranty is a ripoff! I own a 2003 kawasaki nomad motorcycle with 170,345 miles on the odometer and my extended "unlimited mileage" warranty expires on 8/19/2008. On 9-25-06, I noticed a major oil leak coming from a hole in the left side #1 cylinder spark plug sleeve. On 9-27-06, I took my bike (By trailer) to my dealer in order to have it repaired. On 10-14-06, I was notified by my dealer (Who was eager to repair the bike) that kawasaki would not authorize warranty work to be done because of normal wear and tear. On 10-16-06, I called kawasaki customer service and…

Other Kawasaki VN1500-L4 years

No other model years have data.

Compare all Kawasaki VN1500-L4 years · All Kawasaki models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2003 Kawasaki VN1500-L4 have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2003 Kawasaki VN1500-L4: 04V-023 (engine and engine cooling). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2003 Kawasaki VN1500-L4?

Owners report engine and engine cooling problems most often (1 reports), followed by tires (1). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 170,345 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.