Buell XB12S problems & recalls
NHTSA records for 2004–2006: 2 recall campaigns and 10 owner complaints. Pick a model year.
By year
What owners complain about (all years)
Recent recalls
Structure #05V148000 · 2005 · 149 units
Problem: On certain motorcycles, the sidestand may not retract as designed if contact is made with the ground when the vehicle is in motion.
Risk: This could, in turn, disrupt the stability of the motorcycle leading to a crash, causing death or injury to the rider.
Fix: Dealers will replace the sidestand pivot bolt with a similar bolt that is .100 inch longer free of charge. this change will allow the sidestand to operate as designed. the recall began may 5, 2005. owners may contact buell at 1-414-343-8400.
Electrical System #03V494000 · 2003 · 581 units
Problem: On certain motorcycles, the wire that provides power to the horn, due to misrouting, can become frayed from contact with the horn bracket mounting bolt. as a result, the horn wire may become exposed, and when the horn button is pushed, either the horn circuit fuse or the key switch fuse can blow.
Risk: If the key switch fuse blows, the vehicle can stall, which could result in a crash. if the horn fuse blows, there will be a loss of power to the horn and rear brake light.
Fix: Dealers will inspect and correct the wire routing, if necessary. owner notification began on december 23, 2003. owners should contact buell at 1-414-342-4680.
Want the full repair deets? Get the service manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the XB12S.
Motorcycle-specific service manuals with step-by-step procedures (Clymer is part of Haynes).
Step-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.
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