Honda GL1800 overheating problems

Filed Feb 12, 2024 · VA

I am writing to submit a complaint regarding a potential safety defect in the 2018-2024 Honda Goldwing motorcycles equipped with Android Auto. Shortly after purchasing a new 2024 Goldwing motorcycle, I experienced a concerning incident while riding in Northern Virginia traffic. While using Android Auto, I received a "communications error" message, causing the system to disconnect unexpectedly. Switching to the integrated navigation system provided temporary relief, but Android Auto abruptly re-engaged, leading to a rapid back-and-forth switching between the two systems. This malfunction demanded significant focus to disconnect my phone while navigating interstate traffic, creating a hazardous distraction. Further investigation, including consultation with other Goldwing riders on social media, revealed a potential design flaw: the provided foam sleeve for phone protection overheats the phone, causing malfunctioning and disconnections across Android Auto, affecting the integrated navigation system. This phone overheating issue is affected by the foam sleeve and glove box compartment near the engine, especially during the summer months. I contacted Honda to express my concerns about the potential safety risks associated with distracted driving caused by these malfunctions. Unfortunately, their response was dismissive. They claimed that Android Auto is an "added function" not covered under warranty and denied responsibility for the issue. Additionally, they downplayed the overheating foam sleeve as not a design flaw despite acknowledging potential changes in future models. I am deeply troubled by Honda's lack of accountability for the defective foam sleeve and the safety implications of the malfunctioning infotainment system. Both components are integral to the motorcycle's systems and directly contribute to rider distraction, a recognized risk factor for accidents.

Filed Jun 29, 2017 · Engine · 69,000 miles · CA

Experienced overheating at slow speeds within 5-10 miles. Had to stop seveal times to let motorcycle cool.

Filed Jul 8, 2016 · Brakes, Wheels · 72,121 miles · CA

Brake recall service was performed in may. A complete brake fluid replacement and bleed don. A brake shudder problem has been evident since purchase new and an abnormal number of tires have failed due to blistering of the tread and in one case the tread separated from the tire. I have long contended this is due to a braking engineering problem. Road bike 400 miles after recall service and returned to dealer. He then stated that my rear brakes pads were completely gone and the rear rotor marred. The brake pads had less than 3000 miles on them. After replacing the rotor and brake pads I was called and told the caliper was dragging and honda in torrance had been contacted , they asked that the mechanic take the caliper apart and he stated it seemed normal but was not. Shop installed a new caliper and now waiting for next brake problem. I believe that the fire and shudder problem is caused primarily from rear brake caliper dragging and overheating the wheel and tire assembly.. I have been lucky that my tires blister and fail and that I was able to avoid an accident with the tread separation. This is not one brand of tire ..happened on metzeler, avon and 3 dunlop e3 all at correct tire pressures.this problem is evident in all driving conditions

Filed Dec 10, 2015 · Transmission · 4,400 miles · TX

Insufficient radiator fan clearance results in a damaged radiator causing a coolant leak which results in an uncontrolled slide ending in a crash. Coolant leaking from the radiator that the fan damaged causes a loss of traction at the rear wheel. I noticed my left foot was wet and smelled engine coolant. I was making a left turn out of galveston getting on northbound i45. I turned the corner and the motorcycle went sideways. I rolled off the throttle slightly and rode out of the skid. Chopping the throttle would have resulted in a high-side, and applying more throttle would have caused a low-side crash. Immediately took the motorcycle to the dealership for inspection. They have seen a few of these issues and I found it to be prevalent with other owners on the internet no matter the miles, location, or condition.

Filed Aug 21, 2013 · Engine · 30,000 miles · FL

I own a 2005 honda gl1800. While driving 25 MPH or what its refer to "parade" riding, the vehicle begins to overheat and the temperature gauge increases into the hot zone. The vehicle continues to operate. When running at idles speed with bike parked, it returns to its normal temperature. I have taken the bike to several honda service dealers and they all tell me the bike is fine. Yet I have experienced this overheating in the red zone in several situations. I even called honda directly and complained about this issue. I think they know this is a problem with older models like in my 2005. Honda in 2006 addressed this issue with larger fans and larger radiators. I think honda should have this corrected by making this as a recall an update all models experiencing this problem.

Filed Jul 8, 2009 · Engine · 19,000 miles · NJ

Tl*the contact owns a 2002 honda gl1800 motorcycle. While traveling 14 MPH, the motorcycle would overheat and shut off. The dealer stated that the ECM was failing. The estimated repair cost was $1,000. The vehicle has not been repaired. The contact called the manufacturer and was informed that no compensation would be provided because the motorcycle was not under recall. The failure mileage was 19,000 and current mileage was 21,000.

Filed Sep 14, 2007 · Electrical, Engine · 14,500 miles · VA

Honda 2005 gl 1800 overheating. On two occasions I was riding with other gl 1800s in traffic, my gl 1800 temp gauge went up to red. Did not boil over. One time I was riding in a tunnel which was about 1/4 of a mile. Temp gauge went up to red again, speed was about 45 MPH.

Filed Aug 14, 2007 · Engine · 29,000 miles · MN

Tl*the contact owns a 2005 honda gl1800. While driving 25 MPH, the vehicle began to overheat and the temperature gauge increased into the hot zone. The vehicle continues to operate. The contact stated that the vehicle idles and then returns to its normal temperature. The current mileage was 30,000 and failure mileage was 29,000. Updated 09/11/07

Filed Aug 13, 2006 · Engine · WA

Gl1800 2002 overheating at low speed. Paid $1,000.00 plus for service bulletin fix and it did nothing to help the problem.

Filed Aug 29, 2005 · Brakes · 7,000 miles · AR

Dt: the contact owns a 2003 honda goldwing. When applying the back brake there was bad vibration which resulted in extended stopping distances. The contact stated if the brake were pressed harder, at that point, the motorcycle would come to a stop. The dealership recommended to bleed the brakes, and this should take care of the problem. The dealership bled the brakes, but this did not resolve the problem. The dealership contacted the manufacturer and suggested they could change the brake fluid, but that was about all that could be done about this. The contact had problems with the brakes for approximately a year, and the dealership kept telling him that he was overheating the brake fluid. They did suggest reading the owner's manual which recommended the use of both front and back brakes at the same time. The contact's concern was that if the motorcycle had a linked braking system which actuated the back and front brakes then why would one need to use both brakes at once. The dealership stated after replacing the fluid, if the problem was solved, the contact will have to cover the cost, but if it didn't remedy the problem, he would not have to pay for the replacement.