2003 Indian Chief recalls and problems
The 2003 Indian Chief has 2 safety recalls and 2 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Indian dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2003 Indian Chief vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2003 Indian Chief recalls
Recall 03V-173: Fuel System, Gasoline
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.
Recall 03V-191: Visibility
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.
2003 Indian Chief problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment | 1 | |
| Electrical System | 1 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 1 | |
| Power Train | 1 |
Most reported parts
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Master Cylinder — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 2,500 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 Indian Chief complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Indian Chief years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2003 Indian Chief have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2003 Indian Chief: 03V-173 (fuel system, gasoline), 03V-191 (visibility). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2003 Indian Chief?
Owners report equipment problems most often (1 reports), followed by electrical system (1). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 2,500 miles.
Are Indian recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Indian dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.