VehicleVerdict

2021 Yamaha YZF-R3 problems

Verdict · NHTSA data

Limited data — recalls on file

NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 2021 Yamaha YZF-R3 — too few to judge reliability from owner reports alone — but one recall campaign applies to this year, so any used example should have its VIN checked for completed recall work.

0

NHTSA complaints

1

Recalls

0

Investigations

0

Crash-involved

0

Fires reported

0

Injuries

0

Deaths

—

NCAP overall

How does 2021 compare to other YZF-R3 years?

YZF-R3 NHTSA complaints by model year, 2021 highlighted4 complaints2015: 4 complaints2016: 2 complaints2017: 2 complaints2018: 0 complaints2019: 0 complaints2020: 0 complaints2021: 0 complaints
YZF-R3 NHTSA complaints by model year, 2021 highlighted. Red bars are years to avoid.

See all YZF-R3 years to avoid →

Does the 2021 Yamaha YZF-R3 have recalls?

1 NHTSA recall campaign on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.

21V048000OtherFebruary 3, 2021 · 8,281 units

Defect

Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (Yamaha) is recalling certain 2019-2021 YZF-R3 motorcycles, 2019-2020 XMAX (CDZ300) scooters, and 2020 MT03 motorcycles. The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) printed on the Federal Certification label may not match the VIN stamped on the vehicle. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of 49 CFR Part 567, "Certification."

Consequence

The owner, referencing an incorrect VIN label, may not recognize their vehicle is involved in a safety recall, and may not have the recall remedy performed, which could increase the risk of injury, fire or a crash.

Remedy

Yamaha will notify owners, and dealers will install a correct certification label, free of charge. The recall began February 19, 2021. Owners may contact Yamaha customer service at 1-800-962-7926. Yamaha's number for this recall is 990144.

2021 Yamaha YZF-R3 — common questions

Is the 2021 Yamaha YZF-R3 reliable?

The record is thin — 0 NHTSA complaints — so owner-report data can't strongly confirm reliability either way, though 1 recall should be verified as completed.

Does the 2021 Yamaha YZF-R3 have recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign affecting the 2021 Yamaha YZF-R3. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers; check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the work was done.

Related

Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.

Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.