Indian Challenger Problems - What Can Go Wrong with Your Bike?

The Challenger was introduced by Indian Motorcycle in 2020. It houses the brand's PowerPlus 60-degree V-twin engine with liquid cooling that generates 122 hp and 128 lb-ft of torque. An inverted 43mm fork with 5.1 inches of travel is used for the front suspension while a hydraulically adjustable shock is used for the rear suspension.

These are matched with street cruiser styling with a fixed-fairing bagger. When it comes to performance, reliability, and design, most are more than content with what the cruiser offers.

If you are about to buy the Indian Challenger or you already own one, you should be aware of the problems that are frequently raised by a majority of its users. So, if you end up encountering them, at least you have an idea of what you are up against. Likewise, it will provide you with information on how you can fix what's causing them in no time.

Most Common Problems Linked to the Indian Challenger

Based on reports, reviews, and forums dedicated to Indian Challenger motorcycles the most common complaints associated with the cruiser are the following:

• Error Codes
• Faulty Transformer
• Noisy Operation
• TPMS Stop Functioning
• Fairing Pockets Opening Unexpectedly
• Navigation System Unreliability

Diagnosing the Common Causes of the Indian Challenger Problems and Their Solutions

To help you understand what your motorcycle is going through if you are encountering the aforementioned problems, here are the common causes of each issue and possible ways for you to address them:

1. Error Codes

Topping this list are the common error codes that usually bug Indian Challenger riders. These codes can be used to help diagnose the possible causes of the problem and solutions for each.

Error code P0602 indicates an issue with the engine control module (ECM). This can be caused by a variety of things, including a faulty ECM, bad wiring, or a short in the ECM circuit. To fix this problem, you will need to replace the ECM or its shorted harness.

Error code P0113 pertains to a problem with the intake air temperature sensor (IAT). This can be caused by a faulty IAT sensor, bad wiring, or a short in the IAT sensor circuit. To solve this, you will need to replace the IAT sensor as well as its wiring harness.

Error code P0603 points to a potential problem with the ignition control module (ICM). This can be because of a faulty ICM, bad wiring, or a short in the ICM circuit. To fix this problem, you will need to replace the ICM and its wiring.

Error code P0420 is related to a fault in the catalytic converter. This can be caused by a variety of things, including a damaged catalytic converter, bad exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, or a blockage in the exhaust system. Depending on where the trouble is coming from, you will need to replace the catalytic converter, EGR, or exhaust components. If it's just clogging due to the accumulation of dirt causing the issue, a simple cleaning of the said parts might do the trick.

If you see any of these error codes on your Indian Challenger motorcycle, it is important to bring your bike to a mechanic right away. Ignoring these codes could lead to further damage to your motorcycle and may even void your warranty.

2. Faulty Transformer

If your Indian Challenger motorcycle is experiencing symptoms such as the engine not starting, stalling, decreased engine power, dimming or flickering headlights, and other electrical accessories not working properly, it may be due to a faulty transformer.

To diagnose the cause of these problems, you will need to check the voltage output of the transformer. If the voltage is low, it may be due to a problem with the transformer itself, or with the rectifier/regulator that supplies power to it.

Possible solutions for this problem include replacing the transformer, rectifier/regulator, or both. In some cases, it may also be necessary to replace the stator or other electrical components.

If you are unsure of how to diagnose and repair this problem, consult a qualified motorcycle mechanic immediately.

3. Noisy Operation

There are a few potential causes of abnormal noise when operating an Indian Challenger motorcycle. One possible cause is the engine itself. If the engine is making unusual noises, it may need its mounting or bolts to be adjusted or replaced if they are damaged. Another potential cause of noise could be the exhaust system.

If the exhaust system is not functioning properly, it can create a loud noise. Finally, the tires could be the source of the noise. If the tires are not inflated properly or if they are worn down, they can create loud noise as well.

If you are experiencing noisy operation on your Indian Challenger motorcycle, there are a few things you can do to diagnose the problem. First, you should check the engine to see if its mounting or bolts need adjustment or replacement if any of them are damaged. Next, you should check the exhaust system to see if it is functioning properly.

Finally, you should check the tires to see if they are inflated properly and if they are worn out. If you cannot find the source of the noise, you may need to take your motorcycle to a mechanic for further diagnosis.

There are a few potential solutions for noisy operation on an Indian Challenger motorcycle. One solution is to adjust or replace the engine mounts or bolts. Another solution is to fix the exhaust system. Finally, you can inflate the tires properly and/or replace them if they are worn down.

If you cannot find the source of the noise, you may need to take your motorcycle to a mechanic for further diagnosis and repairs.

4. TPMS Stop Functioning

If your TPMS light stays on after you start your motorcycle, it means that the system isn't working properly. There are several possible causes for this, including a low battery, a faulty sensor, or a problem with the antenna or receiver.

To diagnose the problem, first, check the battery. If it's low, replace it and see if that fixes the issue. If not, then next check the sensors. One of them may be faulty and need to be replaced.

If you're still having trouble, there are a few other potential solutions. You can try resetting the system by disconnecting and then reconnecting the battery. Or you can try reprogramming the system using a special tool. If all else fails, you may need to replace the entire TPMS unit.

If your TPMS light is on, it's important to diagnose and fix the problem as soon as possible. Otherwise, you won't be able to properly monitor your tire pressure and could end up with a flat tire or worse.

5. Fairing Pockets Opening Unexpectedly

One of the most common issues that Indian Challenger motorcycle owners experience is their fairing pockets opening unexpectedly. This can be a major problem, as it can cause the fairing to become damaged or even fall off entirely. There are a few different possible causes of this problem, and there are also a few different possible solutions.

A possible cause of the fairing pockets opening unexpectedly is that the locking mechanism is not working properly. The locking mechanism is what keeps them closed, so if it is not working properly, the pockets may open.

Another possible cause is that the fairing itself is not properly secured to the motorcycle. If the fairing is not properly secured, it may vibrate loose over time and eventually come off entirely.

There are a few different ways to fix the problem. One way is to make sure that the locking mechanism is working properly. If not, it can be fixed by replacing the locking mechanism. Another way to fix the problem is to make sure that the fairing is properly secured to the motorcycle.

If not, it can be solved by ensuring that the screws that hold the fairing in place are tightened properly. On the other hand, if the fairing pockets are damaged, you may need to change them with new ones.

6. Navigation System Unreliability

The navigation system of every vehicle should be user-friendly and it should be able to provide its user utmost convenience with the information it offers. The Indian Challenger lacks consistency in this department though.

Many users complain about the Ride Command software of the bike for its lack of flexibility when navigating through narrow street networks. They say the directions it provides are often confusing. However, they noted that it works well along the highway.

Since this is a standard feature, there's no way to go around it except by importing the information about your destination in your motorcycle's Ride Command app using your computer or phone. With that, you should definitely plan ahead if you are unfamiliar with the place you are going.

Conclusion

As with any other product, the Indian Challenger has its own set of common problems that you may encounter along the way. Therefore, you should be aware of them, so you will be prepared if ever you end up facing them.