2001 Honda GL1800A: problems, recalls and reliability
2 recalls and 14 owner complaints on record; most reports concern suspension; the 2002 model year looks more trouble-free.
Data updated weekly · latest recall Oct 2015
All counts are reports filed with NHTSA in the United States - US market only, not worldwide totals.
Common problems
Computed from 14 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for this exact model year.
“Tl*the contact owns a 2001 honda gl1800a motorcycle. While driving 40 mph, he noticed that the speedometer would not increase beyond 40 mph until he touched the screen. The dealer was stated that they could not replace the part without permission from honda. He contact is concerned about the safety risk since he had to use one hand to touch the speedometer which could potentially result in a crash. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 36,180 and the current mileage was 36,442. Updated 08/31/10. *lj the consumer stated he had to tap on the plastic cover with his fist to get it to move. Updated 08/31/10*jb”Owner report · Electrical System · Apr 2010
“I submitted an earlier compliant #10237793. This described a frame crack is on the left side of the frame. Today, I found a second frame crack in the exact same location but, on the opposite side(right) of the frame. The crack originates in a weld area & migrates into the frame tubing. Both cracks, on each side of the frame look identical. The frame part that is cracked is known as the sub-frame, which is the triangle portion at the rear half of the frame. *tr”Owner report · Structure · Sep 2008
“I discovered the frame on my 2001 honda gl1800a is cracked. Its location is the left lower tube that is below the battery box. This particular crack situation has been experienced by many cqnsumers.this crack was not described in the last honda motorcycle frame crack recall.”Owner report · Structure · Aug 2008
Show 6 more owner reports
“Tire losing air between tire and rim. 6 to 8 psi in a day. Multiple leaks around tire and wheel on both sides of tire. Checked for proper seating on rim. Ok. Reset tire on rim. Still leaks. Rim is in good condition. *jb”Owner report · Tires · Mar 2007
“Dt*: the contact stated the speedometer sticks. The vehicle was taken to the dealership who determined the speedometer needed to be replaced. *ak”Owner report · Vehicle Speed Control · Sep 2006
“Rear suspension not setting in full range. Was replaced once by honda warranty 2-2-05 and am now being told that the same symptoms are now considered normal. Have lost over 25% of suspension adj range. Honda now refuses to cover under warranty. *jb”Owner report · Suspension · Oct 2005
“Consumer took 2001 honda gl1800 to the dealer for the frame inspection and the kill switch recall. Consumer experiencing problems having the recall repairs performed.*mr the vehicle ran fine prior to the consumer taking it to the dealer for recall repairs. *nm”Owner report · Electrical System · Apr 2005
“My 2001 honda gl1800 has a surging problem when engine rpm is 1400-1500 in any gear or just standing still. At a stand still if the throttle is held at 1400-1500 rpm the engine will oscillate between 1000 and 1500 rpm until the throttle is released. While driving at this rpm in any gear this problem will cause the sudden lose of engine rpm and then a surge back causing a dangerous situation especially when riding 2 up. It all started after the ecm was updated (10/01/03) for an overheating problem (recall). Honda is aware of the problem but they are dragging their feet just as they did with the overheating problem. This is a safety problem. *jb”Owner report · Electrical System · Oct 2003
“2001 gl1800 goldwing engine surges from 1500 rpm to 1000 rpm and continues to oscillate up and down until the throttle is released or rpm is raised above 1500. *ts the consumer indicated that the problem started after service bulletin 1800a13 was completed. The sb was for an overheating problem that the earlier gl1800's had. *nm updated 04/21/06.”Owner report · Engine And Engine Cooling · Jan 1901
When filing, owners marked a crash in 2 of these complaints and injuries in 0 - self-reported to NHTSA, not verified accident statistics.
Recalls - 2 campaigns
American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (Honda) is recalling certain model year 2001-2010 and 2012-2015 GL1800, 2001-2005 GL1800A and 2013-2015 GL1800B motorcycles. The rear brakes of the affected motorcycles may drag after the brakes are released.
Remedy: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the secondary brake master cylinder and the rear brake master cylinder, and flush the brake fluid, free of charge. The recall began on December 7, 2015. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-866-784-1870. Honda's number for this recall is JV6. Note: This recall supercedes recall 14V-472.
ON SOME MOTORCYCLES, CERTAIN FRAME WELDS DO NOT MEET MANUFACTURING SPECIFICATIONS. HIGH LOADS CREATED WHEN RIDING ON ROUGH ROAD SURFACES OR THROUGH POTHOLES CAN CAUSE THE AFFECTED WELDS TO CRACK.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REINFORCE THE WELDS ON 2001-2002 MOTORCYCLES FREE OF CHARGE. ON 2003-2004 MOTORCYCLES, THE UNITS WILL BE REPAIRED, NO INSPECTION WILL BE NECESSARY. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 9, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HONDA AT 1-866-784-1870.
How other years compare
Check your exact GL1800A by VIN
Recalls and equipment differ between individual vehicles. Decode your VIN to see what applies to yours.
Open VIN decoderFrequently asked questions
Is the 2001 Honda GL1800A reliable?
NHTSA has 14 owner complaints and 2 recall campaigns on record for the 2001 Honda GL1800A. The most complained-about area is suspension.
Does the 2001 Honda GL1800A have open recalls?
2 recall campaigns have been issued, the latest concerning service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:master cylinder. Check your specific vehicle by VIN - recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Source: NHTSA recall campaigns and owner complaints (public domain). Counts reflect reports on file and are not a defect rate.