2008 Ducati 848
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Ducati › 848 › 2008
These records cover every 2008 Ducati 848. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
2 recalls name the 2008 Ducati 848. Newest first.
Ohlins Racing AB (Ohlins) is recalling certain steering dampers kits manufactured with an incorrectly machined bracket. These dampers were sold for use as aftermarket equipment on Yamaha R1, R6, and FZ6, Suzuki TL1000 R and GSX1300R, Honda CB600RR, and Ducati Monster 1000, 748, 848, 916, 996, and 998 motorcycles. Also included are universal steering…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If there is a crack in the steering bracket, at low speeds it may cause the steering to lock, leading to personal injury or a crash.
Remedy
Ohlins will notify the distributors and provide their customers with a new bracket. The recall began in November 2013. Owners may contact Ohlins USA at 1-828-692-4525. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 13E-034.
Ducati IS recalling 7,130 my 2007-2008 1098, 1098s, 1098 tricolore, 1098r, and my 2008-2009 848 motorcycles. the motorcycle charging system may be adversely affected by engine heat and stop operating. this results in damage to the voltage regulator and ensuing battery discharge.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This can result in damage to the motorcycle and a potential hazard to the rider, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the voltage regulator, install a heat guard between the voltage regulator and the engine exhaust system, and install a modified battery support. the recall will begin on december 24, 2008. owners may contact ducati at 1-800-231-6696.
Owner complaints
12 complaints1 involved a crash
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Fuel/propulsion system
Fuel IS leaking out of the bottom of the motorcycle near the exhaust manifold. I took it to the shop and they said that it IS a known problem with deformation of the gas tank and ducati settled a class action law suit about it. However, I was never notified and did not qualify for the repairs…
Fuel IS leaking out of the bottom of the motorcycle near the exhaust manifold. I took it to the shop and they said that it IS a known problem with deformation of the gas tank and ducati settled a class action law suit about it. However, I was never notified and did not qualify for the repairs because more than 18 months has passed since the lawsuit was settled. vehicle was parked in the garage when I noticed the large puddle of fuel on the floor.
- Fuel/propulsion system
Ducati fuel tanks are leaking. Dealers are replacing some fuel tanks for original owners. I am not an original owner. My fuel tank IS not leaking, yet. If you log on to ducati.org you may read some of the forum postings. You can search forum postings for fuel tank leaks. It IS happening on multiple…
Ducati fuel tanks are leaking. Dealers are replacing some fuel tanks for original owners. I am not an original owner. My fuel tank IS not leaking, yet. If you log on to ducati.org you may read some of the forum postings. You can search forum postings for fuel tank leaks. It IS happening on multiple models built during multiple years. Please protect us from ducati and force ducati to recall and replace the fuel tanks. Ethanol causes the plastic fuel tanks to expand and rupture vent tubes. I do not wish to burn and crash. I also do not wish to pay two thousands dollars or more to replace the fuel tank. It would be cause for celebration for all ducati owners if you would kindly order a recall of ducati fuel tanks. If the tanks are leaking and ducati are replacing some of them, should not all of them be replaced to protect unsuspecting second-hand buyers? There has not been an incident related to my fuel tank. I have entered an incident date only because your software demands one. *Tr
- Engine
The radiator developed a leak. *tr
- Engine · Fuel/propulsion system · Steering
Failure of gas tank. gas tank seems to undergo changes over time a use. The changes are, swelling, leaking, internal failure, damage to fuel system. swelling causes inability to turn handle bars to move to full turn. leaking causes harmful gas fumes to be consumed by rider which can lead to…
Failure of gas tank. gas tank seems to undergo changes over time a use. The changes are, swelling, leaking, internal failure, damage to fuel system. swelling causes inability to turn handle bars to move to full turn. leaking causes harmful gas fumes to be consumed by rider which can lead to cancer and other health problems, fire or explosion IS also a problem. internal failure also causes the above problems. It has been found that also the inside of the tanks also undergo flex and cause cracking inside and outside the tanks. damage to fuel system from the materials that mix and fall into the tank. This can clog the fuel lines causing injector failure or even engine failure. *tr
- Engine and engine cooling
On the top left side of radiator mount cracked and starts to leak. I heard from my friends, dealer and research on the internet and ducati.org forum. This IS a common problem for 2008 ducati 848 and many others were saying this IS the factory failure and known defect. radiator leak caused by…
On the top left side of radiator mount cracked and starts to leak. I heard from my friends, dealer and research on the internet and ducati.org forum. This IS a common problem for 2008 ducati 848 and many others were saying this IS the factory failure and known defect. radiator leak caused by weakened mounting bracket. This design flaw IS due to extra weight placed on the left side mounting bracket from the battery mounted on the same bracket. This IS a potential safety hazard as it caused extremely hot coolant to spray out of the left fairing on to the rider's leg, in addition to causing a crash due to lubricated fluid being expelled under the bike which compromised the integrity of the contact between the rear tire and the road. This item needs a recall before someone loses their life. *js
- Fuel system, gasoline
Many owners are reporting that their defective tank was replaced with another defective tank, so they are on their second or third fuel tank. it seems to be primarily an issue with fuel in the us, however the problem IS showing up in europe. the consensus on the web IS that the problem IS…
Many owners are reporting that their defective tank was replaced with another defective tank, so they are on their second or third fuel tank. it seems to be primarily an issue with fuel in the us, however the problem IS showing up in europe. the consensus on the web IS that the problem IS related to the addition of ethanol in the gasoline, but there are many reports of motorcycles that have used ethanol tainted gas for years and have not had problems with deformation. but more importantly in many cases the deformation can cause safety issues. With some motorcycles the deformation causes the fuel tank to get in the way of the handlebars when making sharp turns, and with ducati sport classics the deformation prevents the tank from attaching to the motorcycle frame correctly which might cause the tank to come off the motorcycle during a crash. the tanks that are affected by this problem are reportedly made of PA6 polyamide plastic and were manufactured from 2005 to 2010. At least some of the tanks were outsourced by the manufacturers and were made by acerbis. At least one manufacturer IS replacing the tanks for free under the us emissions regulations for five years but the manufacturer has provided no written statement to customers that the warranty will continue beyond that five year period. *tr
- Engine and engine cooling › Cooling system
Radiator leak caused by weakened mounting bracket. this design flaw IS due to extra weight placed on the left side mounting bracket from the battery mounted on the same bracket. this IS a potential safety hazard as it caused extremely hot coolant to spray out of the left fairing on to the rider's…
Radiator leak caused by weakened mounting bracket. this design flaw IS due to extra weight placed on the left side mounting bracket from the battery mounted on the same bracket. this IS a potential safety hazard as it caused extremely hot coolant to spray out of the left fairing on to the rider's leg, in addition to causing a crash due to lubricated fluid being expelled under the bike which compromised the integrity of the contact between the rear tire and the road. this item needs a recall before someone loses their life! *tr
- Engine and engine cooling › Cooling system
My 2008 ducati 848 (which only has 4100 miles on it) developed a radiator leak on the rear-left upper side of the radiator. There were no events leading up the leak. My bike has been sitting for two weeks and was not touched by anyone. Due to the nature of this issue, riders may be in danger as radiator fluid may leak onto the front tire and/or front brakes. *tr
- Engine and engine cooling › Cooling system
TL* the contact owns a 2008 ducati 848 motorcycle. The contact stated that the radiator was leaking abnormally from the rear. There was no road hazard that caused the radiator to fail. The contact stated that the vehicle would be taken to the dealer within the next two days for inspection and possible repairs. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The vin was unavailable. the failure mileage was 3,600.
- Engine and engine cooling › Cooling system
1. My 2008 ducati 848 motorcycle developed a radiator leak. there are no events leading up to the failure other than normal riding. my motorcycle has less than 5000 miles on the odometer. 2. The failure IS a leaking radiator. consequences are higher risk of crash (due to slick fluid emanating…
1. My 2008 ducati 848 motorcycle developed a radiator leak. there are no events leading up to the failure other than normal riding. my motorcycle has less than 5000 miles on the odometer. 2. The failure IS a leaking radiator. consequences are higher risk of crash (due to slick fluid emanating from the machine), and massive engine damage due to overheating. 3. No repair has been made. the vehicle IS currently out of service. *Tr
- Engine and engine cooling › Cooling system
Driving on highway and 170f-215f degree hot coolant/antifreeze began blowing onto my leg. the radiator on my 2008 ducati 848 with only 4,000 miles, which IS a known ducati 848 problem but refuses to recall, began to leak from the upper left bracket area. called ducati north america and they were…
Driving on highway and 170f-215f degree hot coolant/antifreeze began blowing onto my leg. the radiator on my 2008 ducati 848 with only 4,000 miles, which IS a known ducati 848 problem but refuses to recall, began to leak from the upper left bracket area. called ducati north america and they were not very friendly and less than willing to offer a solution. will eventually be a injury or crash due to this coolant/radiator leak. *Tr
- Engine and engine cooling › Cooling system
I own a 2008 ducati 848 motorcycle. It has only 4000 miles on it and the radiator started leaking. The leak on the radiator IS located on top of the radiator where radiator mounting bracket IS located. This IS a very serious defect due to the fact that the radiator IS right next to the front wheel…
I own a 2008 ducati 848 motorcycle. It has only 4000 miles on it and the radiator started leaking. The leak on the radiator IS located on top of the radiator where radiator mounting bracket IS located. This IS a very serious defect due to the fact that the radiator IS right next to the front wheel of the motorcycle where 80 percent of braking IS mostly done and also steering. I informed dealership about leak and they said it IS a very common problem on this motorcycle. The dealership ordered radiator from italy and wait times vary from a week to 3-4 weeks (even more when ducati goes on their 1month vacation). I was also told by service director of dealership that part IS not an updated radiator. Contacted ducati of north america customer service and they seem oblivious of my complaint. I am a member of a few motorcycle forums and most 848 owners have experienced this problem (some of them have installed their second radiator due to the dame problem). I am still waiting on my radiator and it has been more than 1 week (went to dealership on july 16TH). *Tr
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Motorcycle coolant leak...radiator
After opening this PE, ODI gathered information from involved owners, Ducati dealers, and Ducati North America personnel.We were particularly interested in ascertaining how much hot coolant was leaking and whether it had the potential to burn the rider and/or wash the rear tire contact patch.On November 23, 2010…
After opening this PE, ODI gathered information from involved owners, Ducati dealers, and Ducati North America personnel.We were particularly interested in ascertaining how much hot coolant was leaking and whether it had the potential to burn the rider and/or wash the rear tire contact patch.On November 23, 2010, using a complaint radiator installed in a MY 2010 Ducati 848, we observed the subject leakage noting its consistency with what we were told by various dealers and owners.Over the course of 15 minutes, after reaching operating temperature, we noted the volume of leaked coolant to be de minimis.In the absence of alleged lower extremity burns and/or loss of rear tire traction (let alone, crashes), this supports a finding that no defect trend currently exists involving alleged coolant leakage from the subject radiator(s).Accordingly, this investigation is closed.The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist.The Agency will continue to monitor complaints and other information relating to the alleged defect in the subject vehicles and take further action if warranted in the future.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10249815Procedure for Assessing Front Fork Oil Leaks. Applicability: All Models. This service repair bulletin informs dealers and service managers of the assessment criteria for identifying front fork-related defects. The purpose is prevent technicians from mistaking oozing oil or assembly grease, for legitimate defects. The bulletin further provides examples and pictures for clarification.
- 10240311Finial Drive Chain Maintenance Precautions. Applicability: All Models and Model Years (except XDiavel). This Service Bulletin replaces and cancels the previous bulletins: SRV-SRB-18-030 published on 05/11/2018, SRV-SRB-19-046 published on 12/31/2019, SRV-SRB-20-050 published on 11/24/2020. It provides dealers and service managers additional final drive chain care to ensure optimum performance and longevity for the chain. this includes cleaning, lubricating, inspecting and tension guidelines.
- 10240308Guided Diagnosis for Front Brake System Bleeding. Applicability: All Models. This Service Bulletin replaces and cancels the previous bulletin SRV-SRB-20-014 published on 4/17/2020. It provides dealers and service managers with needed information to correctly bleed the front brake system of the various Ducati models. This bulletin further refers the reader to an attached diagnosis guide. The referenced guide/annex is available to NHTSA upon request.
- 10240307Procedure for Analysis and Control of Oil and Coolant Leaks from Engine_Rev.01. Applicability: All Models. This service repair bulletin instructs dealers and service managers on authorized procedures for identifying and isolating coolant and engine oil leaks. The use of a prescribed leak trace powder is stressed. This bulletin includes service instructions.
- 10238475Precautions to Follow During Crankcase Cleaning. Applicability: All Models. This service bulletin informs dealers and service managers about precautions in using abrasive cleaners for engine component sealant, and in particular the crankcase covers. The bulletin further provides cleaning instructions with approved cleaning tools.
- 10237193Procedure for Analysis and Control of Oil and Coolant Leaks from Engine. Applicability: All Models. This service bulletin provides dealers and service managers with troubleshooting guidance for oil or coolant leaks. This bulletin includes service instructions.
- 10222407Overview of Rear Brake System Updates. Applicability: All Models. This service repair bulletin provides dealers and service managers a provides a summary of the updates available for motorcycles that have Customer concerns about a slight elongation, over time and use, of rear brake pedal stroke.
- 10219283CR235 Checking Proper Configuration of Options Installed on the Motorcycle. Applicability: All Models (USA & MEX country versions only) . This technical service bulletin informs dealers and service managers of required BBS electronic configuration for the subject units. The bulletin also provides affected VIN information and service solution. This document has been redacted for sensitive pricing information.
- 10217038Overview of Rear Brake System Updates. Applicability: All US Models. This service bulletin provides a summary of the updates available for motorcycles that have Customer concerns about a slight elongation, over time and use, of rear brake pedal stroke. This Service Bulletin replaces and cancels the bulletin SRV-SRB-22-029 published on 06/17/2022.
- 10213041Service Operation Manual Update 2022. Applicability: All Models, all model years. This service bulletin informs dealers and service manages of service and operations updates to the Operations Manual.
- 10209665Tips & Tricks V 01 - Applicability: All models. Pg 13 : Possible damage to water pump gear oil seal. Diavel 1260 (all model versions). Pg. 15: Indication for replacement of brake hoses under warranty. Multistrada V4 PP, Pg. 41, Possible presence of error U1900-Optional Configuration not carried out. Multistrada V2, Multistrada V4 PP (all model years) Pg.42; Possible interference between tank bag and front brake fluid reservoir/clutch fluid reservoir. Multistrada V4 (all versions), Pg.43; Possible color change of the Akrapovic silencer carbon endcap.
- 10209663Rules for Battery Replacement Under Warranty. Applicability: All models, all years. This Electronic Service Bulletin replaces and cancels SRV-ESB-19-001, published January 17, 2019. It provides dealers and service managers the correct replacement procedures for 12-volt battery installed on all Ducati motorcycle models. This document has been redacted for sensitive pricing information. The annex referenced in this document is available to NHTSA upon request.
- 10208536Tips & Tricks V25 - Applicability: All models. Pg 12 : Update of engine oil filter cartridge tightening torque. Multistrada V4 (all model versions). Pg. 38: Possible incorrect diameter of the silencer front or rear manifold in the Racing Exhaust Kit, Pg. 39, Possible oxidisation of windscreen retaining screws.
- 10203083Tips & Tricks. Applicability: All Models, All Model Years, P. 10-Error P0314 Validation: High misfire with risk of damaging the catalytic converter; P.11-Control unit reprogramming. Multistrada V4S All Model Years, P.30-Right-hand switch button backlighting problems, P. 31-Possible appearance of stains and white dots on the instrument panel, P. 31 Possible malfunction of the heated passenger seat. Scrambler 800 MY 2021, P. 43- Possible appearance of errors U0323, P0500, P2158; Scrambler 800 MY 2021-2022, P44-Irregular idling rpm after engine start. Supersport 950, All Model Years, P.50-Engine warning light on: ECU Error P0314
- 10190055Tips & Tricks Ver 03. Applicability: All models, all model years. This Tips & Tricks bulletin informs dealers and service managers of non-safety time-saving efficiencies and observations, encountered by Ducati field technicians. Topics include aftermarket accessories, battery preparations, tire pressures sensing, gas cap paint, enhanced suspension, oil level checks, and instrument panel software.
- 10190054Tips & Tricks Ver 12. Applicability: All models, all model years. This Tips & Tricks bulletin informs dealers and service managers of non-safety time-saving efficiencies and observations, encountered by Ducati field technicians. Topics range from packaging & transport to engines and accessories, to cosmetic issues.
- 10188299Rideability Complaints. Applicability: All Models. The purpose of this service bulletin is distribute a questionnaire to help dealers and service managers collect detailed information about any rideability complaints for models equipped with a 4-cylinder engine. The purpose is to provide more comprehensive data to enable a better diagnosis of the situation. The referenced questionnaire is attached as an editable PDF, and is available to NHTSA upon request.
- 10174562Guided diagnosis for front brake system bleeding - Applicability: All vehicle models, all years. This Service Bulletin provides guidance for front brake system bleeding. It includes a "guided diagnosis" attachment, which outlines the sequence of operations to be followed depending on the type of brake master cylinder installed. The attachment is available upon request.
- 10169798Scheduled Maintenance Check List Update - Applicability: All models. This service bulletin provides dealers and service managers with scheduled maintenance updates specific to each of Ducati's models. This includes updated mileage and time interval maintenance schedules. The actual checklists referenced in this bulletin will be made available to NHTSA upon request.
- 10169796Final Drive Chain Maintenance Precautions - Applicability: All models and Model Years (except XDiavel). The purpose of this service bulletin is to further inform dealers and service managers of proper maintenance to ensure optimal performance and service life of the final drive chain installed on the entire Ducati range of motorcycles.
- 10167176TiltWatch indicator for engine shipments - Applicability: all models, all years. This service repair bulletin informs dealers and service managers about the "TiltWatch" indicator being implemented on engine packages. It also provides instruction on how to proceed, should an engine shipment be received with an activated TiltWatch indicator.
- 10140276Immobilizer Systems - This electronic service bulletin supersedes SRV-ESB-16-002 published 10/06/2016. it contains updated system information regarding Ducati Immobilizer Systems (engine start lock systems) for the listed year models. The bulletin provides a comprehensive list of procedures covering the associated model systems, associated reference charts.
- 10086367Transparent maintenanceposter and scheduled maintenance checklist update - this service bulletin contains ducati service minimum requirements. It includes maintenance checklists and intervals, as well as illustrations for display.
- 10029886Ducati motorcycle: the gear selector mechanism applicable to all ducati model motorcycles equipped with 2V/4V engines has been revised due to difficulty in selecting a gear and gear selector was set incorrectly. No model years listed.
Every Ducati 848 model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.