2018 Ducati Panigale 959

Recalls

1 recall names the 2018 Ducati Panigale 959. Newest first.

• Service brakes, hydraulic › Foundation components › Disc › Pads

  Jul 19, 2018NHTSA 18V48000072 vehicles

  Ducati North America (Ducati) is recalling certain 2018 Ducati Panigale V4, Panigale 959, Panigale 1299 FE, and Hypermotard motorcycles. The friction material on the rear brake pads may detach from the backing plate.

  Risk and remedy

  Risk

  If the rear brake pad friction material detaches, it may lengthen the distance needed to stop the motorcycle, increasing the risk of a crash.

  Remedy

  Ducati will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear brake pads. Brake pads from the affected batch will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began August 27, 2018. Owners may contact Ducati customer service at 1-888-391-5446.

  Full recall details →

Owner complaints

Latest complaints

• Oct 31, 2018CA3,500 mi
  Service brakes
  I was riding up to a red light intersection and applied the rear brakes. They seized closed (same effect as slamming on the brakes), almost washing me out into crosstraffic. They did not release for about 15 seconds once stopped. There was no dirt, water, or fod in the hydraulic lines or the…

  I was riding up to a red light intersection and applied the rear brakes. They seized closed (same effect as slamming on the brakes), almost washing me out into crosstraffic. They did not release for about 15 seconds once stopped. There was no dirt, water, or fod in the hydraulic lines or the pad/rotor. I had just bled them, so it was not the expansion of an air pocket. The return channel (the small pinhole back to the reservoir) was clear, and the spring was functional. I searched for other problems and found srv-rcl-18-004, a known recall for faulty rear brake pads on my bike/model (https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2018/rcrit-18v480-3230.pdf). I suspect that they thermally fused to my disc during the incident above. I removed the brake pads to inspect them. Pictures are attached. Sure enough, the pads were trashed. Not only was the friction material completely gone, but about 80-90% of the backing plate on which the pad IS adhered was worn through. This IS extremely unsafe. The motorcycle has 3500 miles, well before eol for a healthy rear brake pad. If a motorcycle IS driven for 3500 miles with no front brake application, only rear, that would still not be enough to wear the rear pad out to this degree. This appears to be a defect. the rotors are scored due to the contact with the faulty brake pad. I have replaced the rear pads to temporarily allow rear braking, but efficiency IS reduced against a non-flat rotor. I have reached out to the dealership as well. They did not notify me of the original recall, which was scheduled for owner contact at the end of september.

Defect investigations

NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.

• Extended Stopping Distance

  PE21003Opened Feb 18, 2021Closed Jul 9, 2021Recall 21V315000
  The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this Preliminary Evaluation (PE) based on twenty-two (22) Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) for soft rear brakes caused by air seeping into the rear brake lines of model year (MY) 2012-2020 Ducati Monster, Multistrada, SuperSport, Panigale, Scrambler and Diavel…

  The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this Preliminary Evaluation (PE) based on twenty-two (22) Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) for soft rear brakes caused by air seeping into the rear brake lines of model year (MY) 2012-2020 Ducati Monster, Multistrada, SuperSport, Panigale, Scrambler and Diavel motorcycles.The consumers were alleging that the rear brakes would not properly function unless the rear brake pedal was applied several times or that there was a total loss of rear braking during normal applications, increasing the risk of a crash. In a March 2020 meeting, Ducati indicated that they were aware of certain models in which air may enter the motorcycles' rear braking system through the brake lines, due to exposure to heat from the exhaust system. Although this condition compromises rear braking performance, Ducati stated that they did not consider this to be a safety defect because the front and rear brake systems are hydraulically independent from each other, and a motorcycle's front brake system performs most of the stopping. Additionally, they believed that routine brake fluid replacement would resolve consumers' concerns, however complainants and dealership service technicians reported that, in some cases, after a dealer serviced the rear brake system, the rear brake pedal would feel soft and spongy again (indicating compromised brake performance) less than a year later--well before the recommended two-year brake fluid service interval. As a precaution, Ducati issued a series of technical service bulletins (TSBs) to replace the brake lines with redesigned ones, rerouting them away from the exhaust system.ODI's position is that all of the brakes on a motorcycle are considered necessary for safety. Analysis of the data identified that neither the entire model line nor the entire model year range of motorcycles covered by the investigation were affected, but rather certain sub-models or narrower model year ranges of motorcycles incorporated brake lines with a higher exposure to the heat from the exhaust system. Because of the unique routing of each model's brake line, some motorcycles are more susceptible to the condition than others. As these specific models and model years were most likely to exhibit an increased risk of a crash from the lengthened stopping distance, Ducati converted the previously issued TSBs into a safety recall.After receiving a total of 94 VOQs, ODI is closing this PE with Ducati's safety recall 21V-315. With the recall action taken by Ducati, this investigation is closed. However, the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist on other models or MY vehicles outside of the recall scope. The agency reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.

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.
• 10248120Rear Brake System Update Summary. Applicability: All Models. This Service Bulletin replaces and cancels bulletin SRV-SRB-23-053 published on 10/17/2023. This service bulletin informs dealers and service managers of the availability of new rear brake hoses intended to address wear of the brake lever stroke, resulting from routine use, over time.
• 10240321Tips & Tricks Summary Rev. 10 Summary. water radiator electric fan motors replacement, BBS fuse replacement and BBS software updates for the Diavel; new brake fluid reservoir bracket part number for the Panigale; water pump gear oil seal deficiency, and modifying the tightening torque of the foot peg holder plate and stand support fixing screws for a all models.
• 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.
• 10238477Tips and Tricks Revision 7 Summary. Range and motor error codes for the Multistrada; assembly procedure of the brake caliper mounting plate when refitting the rear wheel for the Monster; oil seal install instructions on dry clutch housing for the Panigale; and timing layshift seal removal for a all models.
• 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.
• 10174566"CR191 Rear Brake Hoses Check and Replace if Required - Monster 821 Model Year 2018-2020 (all versions). This technical service bulletin informs dealers and service managers a potential for the rear brake application to soften over time as a result of normal use. This bulletin further provides a service solution, potentially affected VIN data, and parts distribution details. This document has been redacted for sensitive pricing information. "
• 10174565CR188 - Rear brake hose check and replace if req- Applicability: Monster 797 Model Year 2017-2020 (all models). This technical service bulletin informs dealers and service managers a potential for the rear brake application to soften over time as a result of normal use. This bulletin further provides a service solution, potentially affected VIN data, and parts distribution details. This document has been redacted for sensitive pricing information.
• 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.
• 10173096Ducati Immobilizer Systems - Applicability: All vehicles with electronic coded keys. This Electronic Service Bulletin replaces and cancels the bulletin SRV-ESB-18-004 published on May 3rd, 2018 and provides information regarding the Immobilizer Systems (engine start lock systems) and associated reset procedures that a Ducati technician shall perform in case of a system failure or loss of keys. This bulletin also contains applicability tables and procedures for the various immoblizer systems.
• 10172040Scheduled Maintenance for Racing use - Applicability: 899 Panigale,959 Panigale,1199 Panigale, 1299 Panigale, Panigale V2 (all versions). This service bulletin provides dealers and service managers all of the operations and relative mileage intervals recommended for units used in official sports events. The checklists were provided to the network in PDF attachments and will be provided to NHTSA 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.
• 10147320Procedure to check and adjust the clutch fluid pressure - This service bulletin informs dealers and service managers about reports of difficulty in detection of the "neutral" gear (N) with consequent possible engine cranking. It also provides correct procedures should a service center encounter this situation or a crankshaft replacement occurs. This bulletin further provides parts data and warranty claim information.
• 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.