Home / YAMAHA / ROAD STAR

Yamaha Road Star Problems

The YAMAHA Road Star is a cruiser motorcycle known for its powerful V-twin engine and classic styling. With 652 total complaints on file, owners have reported issues predominantly with the power train, which accounts for the vast majority of complaints. The 2003 and 2002 model years show the highest complaint volumes.

652
Total Complaints
6
Total Recalls
11
Model Years
2
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

2003 2002
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

2005 2006 2007

Common Problem Categories

Power Train 496
Engine And Engine Cooling 54
Fuel System, Gasoline 24
Structure 20
Suspension 16

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2009 2 0 0 0 Good
2008 2 0 0 0 Good
2007 16 0 0 0 Good
2006 6 0 0 0 Good
2005 4 0 0 0 Good
2004 46 1 4 2 Average
2003 210 1 0 0 Avoid
2002 176 1 0 0 Avoid
2001 120 1 6 0 Below Average
2000 38 1 2 0 Average
1999 32 1 2 0 Average

Yamaha Road Star Years to Avoid

2003, 2002, 2001

Best Yamaha Road Star Years

2009, 2008, 2006

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common problems with the YAMAHA Road Star?

Power train problems dominate with 496 complaints. Other issues include engine and cooling concerns with 54 complaints, fuel system problems, structural issues, and suspension concerns.

Which YAMAHA Road Star years should I avoid?

The 2003 model year is the most problematic with 210 complaints, followed by 2002 with 176 complaints and 2001 with 120 complaints.

What power train issues affect the Road Star?

Power train problems represent 496 of 652 total complaints, indicating a systematic issue with transmission or drivetrain components, particularly in the 2001-2003 model years.

Is a newer YAMAHA Road Star more reliable?

Model years from 2005 onward show dramatically fewer complaints, with most years having under 10 reports, suggesting the power train issues were addressed.