Zero Motorcycles Recalls 2011-2012 Models Due to Brake Light Switch Defect
Zero Motorcycles is recalling certain 2011 and 2012 models because the front brake light switch may not activate until significant lever travel occurs, potentially failing to alert following drivers.
What this means for you
Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 4/5 (Severe).
The hazard poses a serious risk of illness, injury, or structural failure. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.
Our severity reasoning: The source text explicitly states that the defect could lead to a possible crash and potential injury or death, which aligns with the rubric criterion for 'significant injury/property-damage reports' or structural vehicle defects involving critical safety systems.
Plain-English summary
Zero Motorcycles, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2011 and 2012 S, XU, and DS motorcycles, model year 2011 MXD and XD motorcycles, and 2012 X motorcycles. The recall involves approximately 450 vehicles. The defect is located in the brake light switch at the front brake lever, which may not activate until significant brake lever travel occurs.
As a result, the brake light may not activate when a moderate amount of front brake is applied. This means motorists traveling behind the motorcycle may not be alerted when an affected motorcycle is slowing down, which could lead to a possible crash and potential injury or death to the rider.
Zero will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the front brake system brake-light switch free of charge. The safety recall began on August 3, 2012. Owners may contact Zero Motorcycles at 1-831-438-3500 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.
The recalled product
- Product
- ZERO X, XD, XU, ZERO DS
- Brand
- ZERO
- Manufacturer
- ZERO MOTORCYCLES INC.
- Category
- Vehicle — Motorcycle
- Affected units
- 450
Is your product affected?
Check your packaging against the codes below. If any of them match, the product is part of this recall.
Model numbers (9)
- X
- XD
- XU
- ZERO DS
- ZERO XU
- S
- ZERO S
- MXD
- DS
Distribution
Distributed nationwide across the United States.
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