NHTSA says it has received at least 2 reports of Indian motorcycles starting by themselves, one at a dealership and another in a development vehicle, leading many to believe there may be a ghost in the machines.
Documents posted by the NHTSA say corrosion in the switch can cause an electrical short, which can start the engine if the key fob is nearby. The agency says if the engine starts unintentionally and the bike is in an enclosed space, people could be exposed to carbon monoxide.
Affected motorcycles are from model year 2018, and include:
- Indian Chief
- Chief Classic
- Chief Dark Horse
- Chief Vintage
- Chieftain
- Chieftain Classic
- Chieftain Dark Horse
- Chieftain Elite
- Chieftain Limited
- Springfield
- Springfield Dark Horse
Indian Motorcycle dealers will replace the switch at no cost to owners.
Polaris Industries Inc., which owns Indian Motorcycle Manufacturing Company, says it has no reports of carbon monoxide exposure or injuries.
Source: USA Today