2017 Indian Chieftain recalls and problems
The 2017 Indian Chieftain has 3 safety recalls and 2 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Indian dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2017 Indian Chieftain vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2017 Indian Chieftain recalls
Recall 22V-635: Exterior Lighting
Problem: Indian Motorcycle Company (Indian) is recalling certain 2014 Chief, 2015 Chief Classic, 2014-2018 Chieftain, 2015-2020 Chief Vintage, 2016-2018 Chieftain Darkhorse, 2016-2020 Springfield, 2017-2018 Chieftain Limited, and 2018-2019 Chieftain Classic motorcycles. The electrical connection for the Vehicle Control Module (VCM) may fail, causing a loss of the front lights, including the headlight.
Risk: The loss of lighting can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of crash.
Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the electrical connection and VCM, as necessary. Dealers will update the VCM software, as necessary. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 27, 2022. Owners may contact Indian customer service at 1-877-204-3697. Indian's number for this recall is I-19-02. This recall replaces NHTSA recall number 19V-339.
Recall 19V-776: Electrical System, Power Train
Problem: Indian Motorcycle Company (Indian) is recalling certain 2014-2019 Chief, Chieftain, Roadmaster, and Springfield motorcycles. The gear position switch contacts may oxidize, causing the gear position display to inaccurately show that the motorcycle is in neutral when it is actually in gear.
Risk: If the transmission is not in neutral when the motorcycle is started, the motorcycle may move unexpectedly, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the switch free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 16, 2020. Owners may contact Indian customer service at 1-877-204-3697. Indian's number for this recall is I-19-03.
Recall 17V-682: Exterior Lighting
Problem: Indian Motorcycles Company (Indian) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Chief, Chief Classic, Chief Dark Horse, Chief Vintage, Chieftain, Chieftain Classic, Cheiftain Dark Horse, Chieftain Elite, Chieftain Limited, Springfield, and Springfield Dark Horse motorcycles. These motorcycles may be equipped with a European-market, not US-market, halogen headlight assembly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Risk: The light output from the incorrect headlight can affect the motorcycle's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Indian will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the motorcycle and replace any incorrect headlight assembly, free of charge. The recall began on December 6, 2017. Owners may contact Indian customer service at 1-877-204-3697. Indian's number for this recall is I-17-03.
2017 Indian Chieftain problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical System | 1 | |
| Power Train | 1 | |
| Unknown or Other | 1 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 1 |
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 27,660 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 2017 Indian Chieftain complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Indian Chieftain years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2017 Indian Chieftain have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 3 recalls for the 2017 Indian Chieftain: 22V-635 (exterior lighting), 19V-776 (electrical system, power train), 17V-682 (exterior lighting). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2017 Indian Chieftain?
Owners report electrical system problems most often (1 reports), followed by power train (1). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 27,660 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.