The problem
Ducati is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 1199 Panigale motorcycles manufactured from March 16, 2012, through July 12, 2012. Screws that secure the steering damper to the steering head could fall out due to an insufficient amount of Loctite applied to the threads.
The risk
The steering damper can detach from the steering head which can lead to loss of control of the motorcycle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Ducati will notify owners, and authorized dealers will remove both screws, clean the threads, apply the proper amount of Loctite, and tighten to the proper torque settings, free of charge. The safety recall began on October 15, 2012. Owners may contact Ducati at 1-800-231-6696 or through their website at www.ducati.com.
Contacts
Ducati's recall number is RCL-12-006. Customers may contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
What to do
- Check your VIN. Enter it at nhtsa.gov/recalls - it shows whether this recall applies to your vehicle and whether the repair has been done.
- Call a dealer. Any authorized Ducati dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 12V400000.
- Ask about parts and a loaner. If parts aren't available yet, ask what to do in the meantime.
- Keep your paperwork. If you paid for this repair before the recall, you may be able to get reimbursed - here's how.