The problem
Honda is recalling certain model year 2013 CB500 (FA, F, XA, X) and CBR500 (RA, R) motorcycles. The rocker arm shaft retaining bolts may have been manufactured incorrectly resulting in the bolts loosening during engine operation. A loose bolt will initially result in a slow leak of engine oil, but if not addressed, the bolt can come out of the cylinder head entirely.
The risk
Without a bolt, the engine will have reduced power which may result in a stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rocker arm shaft retaining bolts, free of charge. The recall began on March 11, 2014. Owners may contact Honda Customer Service at 1-866-784-1870.
Contacts
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to 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 Honda dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 14V056000.
- 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.