MotorDeets

Suzuki VL800 problems & recalls

NHTSA records for 2003–2010: 2 recall campaigns and 31 owner complaints. Pick a model year.

20032004200520062007200820092010

By year

YearRecallsComplaints
200303
200403
200519
200617
200702
200813
200914
201010

What owners complain about (all years)

Electrical System10
Wheels5
Fuel System, Gasoline4
Power Train3
Suspension2
Unknown Or Other2
Exterior Lighting1
Engine And Engine Cooling1

Recent recalls

Electrical System #11V108000 · 2011 · 73,426 units

Problem: Suzuki is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2010 motorcycles manufactured from july 2007 through september 2009, equipped with regulator/rectifier assemblies, suzuki part numbers 32800-41f11, 32800-15h10, 32800-05h11, 32800-41g10, 32800-15h00, 32800-18h00, 32800-05g10, 32800-10g10, 32800-05h20, or 32800-06g01. some regulator/rectifier assemblies were produced with insufficient adhesion between the power module (circuit board) and the rectifier case that contains a heat sink to dissipate heat. due to insufficient adhesion, heat generated on the power module circuit board can cause the circuit board to deform, and lift of the case.

Risk: This condition causes excessive heat on the circuit board and uncontrolled electric current output, which can result in insufficient charging current being provided to the motorcycle battery. this can cause discharge of the battery and can lead to engine stalling and/or a no-start condition. engine stalling while riding can increase the risk of a crash.

Fix: Suzuki will notify owners and suzuki distributors will replace the regulator/rectifier with an improved part free of charge. the safety recall began on march 2, 2011. owners may contact suzuki at 1-714-572-1490.

Electrical System #05V566000 · 2005 · 23,839 units

Problem: On certain motorcycles, the ignition switch wiring harness may have been improperly routed at the time of production. if the wiring harness is not routed properly, it can rub against the clutch cable/throttle cable.

Risk: Continued rubbing may eventually lead to a short circuit which may cause the engine to stall or the lights to go out. this will increase the chance of a crash resulting in serious injury or death.

Fix: Dealers will re-route the ignition switch wiring harness and replace the lock set including the ignition switch along with the clutch cable/throttle cable free of charge. the recall began on january 6, 2006. owners may contact suzuki at 714-572-1490.

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 VL800.

Clymer Print or online manual

Motorcycle-specific service manuals with step-by-step procedures (Clymer is part of Haynes).

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Haynes Print book or online

Step-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.

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Downloadable service manuals. Pay once, keep it.

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