Vehicle recall 12V455000 · September 17, 2012
Zero Zero DS and Zero S
These motorcycles are equipped with a motor encoder position signal that may drift over the extended use of the motorcycle.
Source: NHTSA data as of September 22, 2026. Last refreshed Sep 23, 2026, 2:43 AM UTC.
- Summary
- Zero Motorcycles, Inc. (Zero Motorcycles) is recalling certain model year 2012 S and DS motorcycles. These motorcycles are equipped with a motor encoder position signal that may drift over the extended use of the motorcycle. If the signal drifts outside of the given parameters, the motor controller may shut off, resulting in the motorcycle inadvertently losing power.
- Consequence
- A loss of power could lead to a crash and potential injury or death of the rider.
- Remedy
- Zero Motorcycles will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the motorcycle's motor controller free of charge. The safety recall began on September 28, 2012. Owners may contact Zero Motorcycles, Inc. at 1-888-786-9376.
- Notes
- Customers may contact The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); or go to www.safercar.gov.
Recall details
- NHTSA campaign
- 12V455000
- Reported to NHTSA
- September 17, 2012
- Filed by
- ZERO MOTORCYCLES INC.
- Owner notification
- September 28, 2012
- Vehicles potentially affected
- 315
- Initiated by
- the manufacturer
- Components
- Equipment › Electrical
Vehicles covered
As listed by NHTSA. A recall usually covers only some vehicles of each model and year, often a production date range.
Has your Zero been repaired?
Recalls here come from NHTSA’s records for the model and year. Not every vehicle of a model is included in every recall, and this site can’t see whether a repair has been done. Only a VIN lookup can tell you that.
NHTSA’s VIN search doesn’t show recalls that were already repaired, recalls more than 15 years old, or some small manufacturers’ recalls. A Zero dealer can also check your VIN. Recall repairs are free.