2011-2012 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R Recalled for Crankcase Oil Leak

Kawasaki is issuing a recall on its 2011 and 2012 Ninja ZX-10R due to a potential oil leak in the crankcase.

According to documents released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, engine oil may leak from the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R‘s crankcase from a machined area where the starter is mounted. Leaked oil may pool on top of the crank case and, under continued use, spill onto the rear tire, reducing traction and increasing the risk of a crash.

The issue was first reported in November 2011 by Kawasaki‘s Malaysian distributor. Kawasaki conducted an investigation using parts from both the Malaysian and European markets, determining the oil was coming from a blow hole in the crankcase casting.

Authorized Kawasaki dealers will apply an epoxy sealer to the affected area of the crankcase near the starter mounting point. The recall affects 4,170 units in the U.S. produced between Sept. 1, 2010 and Feb. 15, 2012.

[Source: NHTSA]

By Dennis Chung