Complaints over time
Complaints about the 2018 Indian Chieftain peaked in 2021, with 1 filed
Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. The lighter column runs through October.
Model year
2018 Indian Chieftain
Motorcycle, gasoline, built in United States. Owner complaints on file from Aug 3, 2021 to Aug 3, 2021.
Recall campaigns covering this model year487k vehicles or units across those campaigns
Owner complaints1Below the median 2018 motorcycle
Severity index0.02018 motorcycles average 6.0
First 24 months0Complaints in its first two years
Components
100% of complaints about the 2018 Indian Chieftain name speed control
Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. A complaint can name more than one component; it is counted under the first.
Recalls
4 recall campaigns cover the 2018 Indian Chieftain
Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.
| Campaign | Filed | Subject | Component | Vehicles | Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22V-635 | Aug 19, 2022 | Electrical connection for the Vehicle Control Module (VCM) may fail, causing a loss of the front lights, including the headlight | Lighting | 28,689 | Software update |
| 19V-776 | Oct 29, 2019 | Gear position switch contacts may oxidize, causing the gear position display to inaccurately show that the motorcycle is in neutral when it is… | Electrical system | 52,745 | Part replacement |
| 18V-228 | Apr 10, 2018 | Corrosion may develop within the right combination switch, potentially resulting in the motorcycle starting without the user's intent if the key… | Electrical system | 3,341 | Part replacement |
| 17V-682 | Oct 27, 2017 | These motorcycles may be equipped with a European-market, not US-market, halogen headlight assembly | Lighting | 2,096 | Part replacement |
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints
What owners reported about the 2018 Indian Chieftain
The full text of every complaint filed with NHTSA about this model year, newest first. Complaints are filed by owners and are not verified by NHTSA; NHTSA removes personal details before publishing.
1 complaint on file, page 1 of 1.
- Filed Aug 3, 2021Failure Aug 1, 2021Jeanette, PAVehicle speed control
The gear position indicator has been replaced multiple times, including the recall “fix” intended to remediate the incorrect readings. The continuing issue is that the indicator often senses neutral when the transmission is actually in 6th gear (the other gears are often incorrect but cause less of a safety issue)—the result is that cruise control cannot be used in 6th gear without substantial risk, as the computer will automatically deactivate the cruise control when the indicator bounces from 6th gear to neutral. When this happens, the bike quickly decelerates and can lurch, causing an extremely hazardous situation—this is especially concerning at highway speeds and/or in heavy traffic.
NHTSA complaint 11427552
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations
NHTSA has not opened an investigation on this model year
Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
Service bulletins
36 manufacturer communications cover this model year
Technical service bulletins and other notices the manufacturer sent to dealers. A bulletin is not a recall.
- IND-03.11.2025-2 Mar 12, 2025 · Other
This Indian Motorcycle help center article contains information regarding the inspection and adjustment of the clutch lever on 2014+ Chieftain motorcycles. - IND-03.11.2025-1 Mar 12, 2025 · Other
This Indian Motorcycle help center article provides information regarding removal and installation of the battery on 2014+ Chieftain motorcycles. - IND-03.04.2025 Mar 5, 2025 · Other
This Indian Motorycle help center article provides information regarding inspection and tension adjustment of the drive belt on 2014+ Chieftain motorcycles. - IND-02.12.2025 Feb 13, 2025 · Other
This Indian Motorcycle help center article provides information regarding brake inspection and maintenance regarding 2014+ Indian Chieftain motorcycles. - I-19-02-A/B/C Aug 29, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Indian Motorcycle has determined that an electrical defect may exist in 2014-2020 Heavyweight Air Cooled Indian Motorcycles, resulting in the unexpected loss of forward lighting. This defect may also cause heat damage to the Vehicle Control Module (VCM) a… - I-22-03-02 Mar 22, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Indian Motorcycle identified that on Indian Scout Models there is a potential for damage to occur to electrical hardware or the vehicle harness if the battery ground cable and ground joint is not connected properly. Damage can occur during procedures that r… - IND-02-14-2022 Feb 14, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Best practices for gauges, speedometers, and tachometers providing information regarding how to clean and maintain. The version has been translated into French. - IDH-HOLD Mar 15, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY: STOP SALE on affected motorcycle(s) identified in your inventory until further notice. - I-20-06 R02 Mar 25, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Indian Motorcycle has determined that some 2014-2020 Full–Size (111 c.i. / 116 c.i.) and 2020 Challenger models sold in Japan show compliance concerns due to operating range frequency of key fob, Vehicle Control Module (VCM) or Wireless Control Module (WCM)… - I-20-06 R01 Mar 9, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Indian Motorcycle has determined that some 2014-2020 Full–Size (111 c.i. / 116 c.i.) and 2020 Challenger models sold in Japan show compliance concerns due to operating range frequency of key fob, Vehicle Control Module (VCM) or Wireless Control Module (WCM)… - ISA-20-03 Dec 10, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Indian Motorcycle has identified a potential calibration issue affecting some 111/116 c.i. motorcycles. When active, the P1530 fault causes the motorcycle to operate in a reduced power (limp) mode. - I-20-12-01 Dec 18, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
This Team Tip has been released by Indian Motorcycle to provide information regarding odometer maintenance and address concerns about correct odometer value. - DW 3.9 Aug 31, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Digital Wrench version 3.9 is now available for download. Updating to version 3.9 is required to update the base Digital Wrench software version from 3.8 to 3.9 to allow for future MY18 vehicle support. - SAF-17-02 Aug 24, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
At the dealer show in July, we launched the new MY18 Indian Motorcycle line-up! On top of key product enhancements across the entire line, we also introduced the all new Scout® Bobber, Springfield Dark Horse®, Chieftain Dark Horse® with Ride Command, and Ro… - G-17-10-02 Oct 26, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
At Polaris, we are committed to the safety of our customers and riders. Through product design, dedicated safety engineering, and increased consumer awareness, Polaris continues to work toward a safe riding experience and proper operation of our products. T… - G-16-11-01 Nov 1, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Polaris has released Team Tip G-16-10-01 to inform dealers that Polaris Mobile Digital Wrench (PMDW) version 3.28 or later requires dealers to enter a valid 10-digit Digital Wrench serial number to operate the app. The serial number requirement has been add… - G-15-12-01 R03 Feb 26, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
There is no doubt that for a Polaris customer the process of picking up a brand new vehicle is one of the most exciting times in the ownership experience. To ensure that all Polaris dealers are equipped to deliver a world-class experience that matches the h… - G-15-12-01 R02 Jan 15, 2016 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
PCDX is an online and mobile interface for providing a consistent dealer setup and customer delivery experience. The interface walks the dealer and the customer through a standardized online form that includes the PDI (pre-delivery inspection), general warn… - G-15-12-01 Dec 10, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
This Team Tip is being released to dealers to provide information regarding the required transition to online PCDX and PCDX training. - ISA-19-03 R03 Dec 12, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Indian Motorcycle has determined the gear position switch used on 2014-2019 (111 c.i.) motorcycles may provide an inaccurate signal, which can lead to an incorrect gear being displayed. Oxidation on the contacts of the gear position switch may cause a chang… - ISA-19-03 R02 Nov 6, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Indian Motorcycle has determined the gear position switch used on 2014-2019 (111 c.i.) motorcycles may provide an inaccurate signal, which can lead to an incorrect gear being displayed. Oxidation on the contacts of the gear position switch may cause a chang… - ISA-19-03 R01 Nov 5, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Indian Motorcycle has determined the gear position switch used on 2014-2019 (111 c.i.) motorcycles may provide an inaccurate signal, which can lead to an incorrect gear being displayed. Oxidation on the contacts of the gear position switch may cause a chang… - ISA-19-01 Mar 14, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Indian Motorcycle has identified a quality concern affecting some 2017–2019 full size motorcycles with chrome trim built from 7/18/2016 through 11/27/2018. The chrome trim strips applied to the front and rear fenders may exhibit a wrinkling finish shortly a… - I-18-06 R01 Apr 17, 2018 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Indian Motorcycle is actively investigating a potential concern affecting 111 ci engines that have been equipped with the Thunder Stroke 116 ci Stage 3 Big Bore accessory kit. Investigation is currently planned to conclude by 5/7/18, and at that time this c… - I-18-05 Apr 12, 2018 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Indian Motorcycle has identified that some 2018 111 ci motorcycles have been manufactured with a clutch lever that does not meet quality standards. Affected clutch levers may cause an interference between the clutch cable and lever while cycling, potentiall… - I-18-03 May 29, 2018 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Indian Motorcycle has identified three separate calibration concerns currently affecting 2017 and 2018 full-size Indian Motorcycles. The Indian Motorcycle engineering team has released updated ECM and cluster calibrations to correct these concerns. Gear P… - I-18-02 Feb 15, 2018 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Indian Motorcycle has identified three separate calibration concerns currently affecting 2017 and 2018 full-size Indian Motorcycles. The Indian Motorcycle engineering team has released updated ECM and cluster calibrations to correct these concerns. Gear Pos… - I-19-03-01 Mar 21, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
This Team Tip has been released to assist dealers when servicing vehicles that have, or are suspected to have, aftermarket (non-OEM) modifications. It is critical for expedient and accurate diagnosis of a motorcycle, to identify and disclose all existing mo… - I-18-11-03 Nov 30, 2018 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
This Team Tip is designed to inform dealers about updated information regarding gear position switches for all 2014- 2019 Indian Motorcycle (111 c. i.) models. Updated information has been added to the Service Manual to provide dealers with clear direction … - I-18-11-01 R03 Jan 18, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Indian Motorcycle has introduced new software and map updates for the Ride Command display. Dealers should encourage Indian Motorcycle riders using Ride Command to bring their bikes in to receive the software update. At this time, dealers should also verif… - I-18-11-01 R02 Dec 13, 2018 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Indian Motorcycle has introduced new software and map updates for the Ride Command display. Dealers should encourage Indian Motorcycle riders using Ride Command to bring their bikes in to receive the software update. At this time, dealers should also verif… - I-18-11-01 R01 Nov 26, 2018 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Indian Motorcycle has introduced new software and map updates for the Ride Command display. Dealers should encourage Indian Motorcycle riders using Ride Command to bring their bikes in to receive the software update. At this time, dealers should also verif… - I-18-05-01 May 10, 2018 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
2014-2018 Indian Motorcycles utilize Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries which are selected for their superior vibration resistance, weight savings, and high output. This Team Tip is being released to provide the Indian dealer network with specific recomm… - I-17-04-01 Apr 4, 2017 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The Purpose of this Team Tip is to call attention to the importance of keeping Ride Command software updated to utilize the continuous improvements being made. - I-19-09-02 Sep 27, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Updated information has been added to all Indian Motorcycle Service Manuals to provide dealers with clear directions when servicing the fuel system. Be sure to reference the applicable Service Manual for the most accurate information. - I-19-09-01 Sep 27, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
This Team Tip identifies differences between crankcases used throughout Indian Motorcycle 111 C.I. engine production, and introduces a new service crankcase for 2014-2020 models.
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.