2003 Indian Chief problems & recalls
NHTSA recalls and owner complaints for the 2003 Indian Chief.
Recalls
Fuel System, Gasoline #03V173000 · 2003 · 1,979 units
Problem: On certain motorcycles, due to the positioning of the gas tank vent tube, the vent tube can become clogged with debris, particularly in wet weather. vent tube clogging can cause interruption of fuel flow to the carburetor, causing the motorcycle to stop. a clogged vent tube may also cause pressure to build up in the gas tank and push a small amount of gas out of the fuel filler cap seal.
Risk: Fuel leakage in the present of an ignition source can result in a fire.
Fix: Dealers will replace the current vent tube with a longer tube repositioned to prevent clogging. owner notification began may 13, 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 2 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 2003 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 2003 Indian Chief have recalls?
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2003 Indian Chief. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if a fix is still open.
What are the most common 2003 Indian Chief problems?
In 2 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-named area is equipment.