Piaggio Group Americas is recalling some of its three-wheeled MP3 500 motorcycles, from the 2019 and 2020 model years.
Affecting 123 units in total, the recall comes about because the brake lines on some of the MP3 500 motorcycles brought into the USA may have been improperly galvanized, which could allow hydrogen to be released into the brake fluid.
If this occurs, it may result in the brake lever/pedal having to travel too far in order to activate the brakes, hence the recall with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The issue came about from warranty claims made by Piaggio Group America’s dealership network, and in some cases the rear brake lever/pedal has extended play after a prolonged period of inactivity. Excessive play on brake levers/pedal can cause reduced braking efficiency as a consequence.
According to recall documents, the Piaggio factory conducted testing and found that there was an incorrect galvanization process of the brake pipe terminals.
The protective zinc layer used for surface treatment of the brake pipe terminals were found to have an irregular surface, which allows hydrogen to remain inside the surface during the treatment process, which in-turn releases in the brake fluid causing hydrogen to release inside of the braking system.
Piaggio will notify affected MP3 500 owners, and Piaggio dealers will perform a complete brake system flush, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin September 24, 2020.
Concerned owners may contact Piaggio customer service at 1-212-380-4433. Piaggio’s number for this recall is PP2ZZQ1904_MP3. As always, the NHTSA is also available at 1-888-327-4236 and safercar.gov.
Source: NHTSA
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