2003 Kawasaki KLR650
Only 6 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 6 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1993 | 2 |
| 1995 | 1 |
| 1997 | 1 |
| 1998 | 6 |
| 1999 | 7 |
| 2000 | 8 |
| 2001 | 19 |
| 2002 | 11 |
| 2003 | 6 |
| 2005 | 1 |
| 2006 | 1 |
| 2008 | 116 |
| 2009 | 6 |
| 2017 | 1 |
| 2022 | 1 |
| 2023 | 16 |
| 2024 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 6 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
3 of 6 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling.
2 of 6 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling.
Show complaint excerpts
THE MOTORCYCLE CAM CHAIN ADJUSTER SPRING BROKE AND CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO STALL WHILE DRIVING. SAUSAGE, KLR 650, 2003. *AK WHILE DRIVING CONSUMER HEARD A GRINDING SOUND FROM THE LEFT SIDE OF THE ENGINE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20030908
1 of 6 total reports mentions: tires.
Show complaint excerpts
WHEN THE MOTORCYCLE WAS TAKEN OUT OF STORAGE CONSUMER NOTICED THAT TIRES SIDEWALL DEVELOPED WEATHER CHECKS. THESE WERE SMALL CRACKS THAT WENT AROUND THE SIDEWALL OF THE TIRES.
NHTSA ODI report, 20040709
1 of 6 total reports mentions: steering.
Show complaint excerpts
I JUST CHECKED MY IDLER SHAFT LEVER (DOOHICKEY) ON MY 2003 KLR 650. THE DOOHICKEY WAS INTACT BUT, THE SPRING WAS BROKE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20060108
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2003 Kawasaki KLR650 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for tires issues (1 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 2003 Kawasaki KLR650 reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2003 Kawasaki KLR650?
The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2003 Kawasaki KLR650 have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.