Yamaha Motor Corporation USA is instructing owners of 2018 through 2022 Yamaha XMAX scooters to immediately stop riding them due to a potential issue that could result in the engine stalling unexpectedly. This could, in turn result in an increased risk of crash and/or injury until the issue is remedied through service at your local authorized Yamaha dealer.
What's the issue? In some affected XMAX units, the camshaft retainer plate may not keep the retainer bolt where it should. This could, in turn, lead to a loose camshaft, which could potentially result in an engine stall. Yamaha's safety recall report even goes so far as to note that this could increase the risk of a loss of control of the scooter, as well as "a crash with severe injury or death."
According to the company's records, approximately 2,715 units could be affected, which represents around 30% of the population. There are some potential warning signs that owners may notice ahead of time, including the engine making strange noises, performing poorly, and possibly exhibiting hard starting. If left untreated, this could progress to engine stalling. Yamaha's recall report lists eight separate parts that may be involved in this recall, including the camshaft retainer plate, several gaskets, an o-ring, and more.
