Home / HONDA / GL1800

Honda Gl1800 Problems

The Honda GL1800 Gold Wing is a flagship touring motorcycle known for luxury and capability. With 1,534 complaints and 10 deaths recorded, issues exist despite Honda's reliability reputation. The complexity of this touring machine means repairs can be expensive. Proper year selection helps avoid known problems.

1,534
Total Complaints
68
Total Recalls
23
Model Years
10
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

2003 2002 2001
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

2004 2009 2013

Common Problem Categories

Engine And Engine Cooling 398
Structure 206
Power Train 120
Service Brakes 106
Steering 104

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2024 8 1 0 0 Good
2023 4 1 0 0 Good
2022 2 2 0 0 Good
2021 26 3 4 0 Good
2020 6 3 0 0 Good
2019 16 2 0 0 Good
2018 92 2 20 0 Average
2016 14 1 4 0 Good
2015 16 2 0 0 Good
2014 18 2 0 0 Good
2013 32 2 0 0 Good
2012 98 5 0 0 Average
2011 0 1 0 0 Good
2010 56 5 8 0 Average
2009 4 6 0 0 Good
2008 120 5 16 0 Below Average
2007 56 5 8 0 Average
2006 54 5 0 0 Average
2005 50 3 2 0 Average
2004 22 3 2 0 Good
2003 214 3 4 0 Avoid
2002 420 3 4 0 Avoid
2001 206 3 2 0 Avoid

Honda Gl1800 Years to Avoid

The 2002 model year is the most problematic GL1800 as the first year of the redesigned generation. Ten fatalities are associated with the GL1800, typical for a heavy touring motorcycle. Electrical problems, starter clutch failures, and brake issues appeared in early production. 2003 and 2004 models improved but still carry elevated risk. The DCT automatic transmission introduced later had its own learning curve.

Best Honda Gl1800 Years

The 2022 model year represents the most refined GL1800 with updated electronics and improved reliability. 2018 and newer models benefit from the latest generation design. For used buyers, 2012-2017 models offer proven reliability with the mature previous-generation platform. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay in newer models reduce the need for Honda's proprietary navigation.

Frequently Asked Questions