2003 Kawasaki Vulcan
Only 8 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 8 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 |
|---|---|
| 1995 | 2 |
| 1996 | 9 |
| 1997 | 7 |
| 1998 | 2 |
| 1999 | 8 |
| 2000 | 5 |
| 2001 | 3 |
| 2002 | 3 |
| 2003 | 8 |
| 2004 | 1 |
| 2005 | 6 |
| 2006 | 3 |
| 2009 | 5 |
| 2010 | 0 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 8 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
2 of 8 total reports mention: power train.
1 of 8 total reports mentions: suspension.
Show complaint excerpts
FRONT FORKS ARE BENT. DEALER NOTIFIED.*AK
NHTSA ODI report, 20030610
1 of 8 total reports mentions: power train.
1 of 8 total reports mentions: power train.
1 of 8 total reports mentions: fuel system, gasoline.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
AFTER A 15 MPH FRONTAL CRASH FUEL TANK STARTED TO LEAK. MOTORCYCLE WAS TOWED. DEALERSHIP WILL BE NOTIFIED. *AK THE CONSUMER RECEIVED A RECALL ABOUT THE MUFFLER BRACKET CRACKING. *SC
NHTSA ODI report, 20041026
SAFETY TIMELINE
ON CERTAIN 2003 VULCAN 1500 CLASSIC, 1500 DRIFTER, 2003-2004 1500 MEAN STREAK, 2003 1600 CLASSIC, AND 2003-2004 NOMAD FL MODEL MOTORCYCLES, HIGH OIL PRESSURE UPON A COLD START-UP CAN DEFORM THE OIL FI
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE OIL FILTER. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 2, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT KAWASAKI AT 1-949-770-0400.
Campaign 04V023000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2003 Kawasaki Vulcan — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for suspension issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 04V023000 (engine and engine cooling) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2003 Kawasaki Vulcan 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 Vulcan?
The most-reported component is power train:driveline:driveshaft, accounting for 25% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2003 Kawasaki Vulcan have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.