1999 Indian Chief problems & recalls
NHTSA recalls and owner complaints for the 1999 Indian Chief.
Recalls
Suspension #02V124000 · 2002 · 4,590 units
Problem: On certain motorcycles equipped with rear shock absorbers made by sway-a-way, the bolts that mount the rear shock absorbers to the swing arm could break.
Risk: This could result in the collapse of the rear suspension, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will inspect the rear shock absorbers and replace them if necessary. owner notification is expected to begin during may 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 indian at 1-408-846-7228.
Steering #02V144000 · 2002 · 4,765 units
Problem: On certain motorcycles, the handle bar riser top clamp could allow excessive movement of the handle bars.
Risk: Loss of control of the motorcycle could occur, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will fit the motorcycles with a new riser top clamp. owner notification began may 31, 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 indian motorcycle at 1-408-846-7228.
Electrical System #03V039000 · 2003 · 7,947 units
Problem: On certain motorcycles equipped with compufire brand series type voltage regulators, if damaged, the voltage regulator can become stuck in an open mode that allows battery voltage to flow back through the regulator.
Risk: This condition can potentially cause the regulator to catch on fire.
Fix: Dealers will inspect the motorcycle and, if necessary, replace the regulator. owner notification began february 14, 2003. 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 indian motorcycle at 1-888-899-2997.
Visibility #03V191000 · 2003 · 3,625 units
Problem: Certain windshields that were sold as standard equipment on these motorcycles or sold as accessories for all other chief models may have defective brackets. the brackets that attach the windshield to the motorcycle are formed such that the mounting bolts are not flush with the bracket. this could place excessive stress on the bolts causing them to break.
Risk: Broken mounting bolts could lead to the windshield coming loose and even falling off the bike, potentially striking the rider or otherwise causing the rider to lose control of the motorcycle and crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the brackets and bolts on the windshield. owner notification began may 30, 2003. 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 indian motorcycle at 1-888-899-2997.
Recalls can cover only some VINs. Check yours at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What owners complain about
Components named in 9 NHTSA owner complaints. Complaints are unverified.
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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 1999 Chief.
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Specs
Specs coming soon. We only publish specs taken from the manufacturer's own spec sheets.
Other years
FAQ
Does the 1999 Indian Chief have recalls?
NHTSA lists 4 recalls for the 1999 Indian Chief. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if a fix is still open.
What are the most common 1999 Indian Chief problems?
In 9 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-named area is suspension.