2009-2021 Ducati Monster Problems: 6 Known Issues
2009-2021 model years · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated November 2026
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2009-2021 Ducati Monster has 6 documented known issues, with 4 rated critical. The most serious are Front brake master cylinder piston can crack — recall 17V812, Rear wheel spokes can crack — recall 12V073, Fuel lines can micro-crack and seep fuel at the pump flange — recall 12V053 and Rear brake hoses can let in air or be damaged by exhaust heat — recalls 21V315 and 21V335.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Ducati Monster problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2009-2021 Ducati Monster has 6 documented issues. Documented issues include: Front brake master cylinder piston can crack — recall 17V812, Rear wheel spokes can crack — recall 12V073, Fuel lines can micro-crack and seep fuel at the pump flange — recall 12V053. Of these, 4 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Ducati Monster reliable?
The 2009-2021 Ducati Monster has 6 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 4 issues are rated critical: Front brake master cylinder piston can crack — recall 17V812 and Rear wheel spokes can crack — recall 12V073 and Fuel lines can micro-crack and seep fuel at the pump flange — recall 12V053 and Rear brake hoses can let in air or be damaged by exhaust heat — recalls 21V315 and 21V335. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
What year Ducati Monster is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Ducati Monster. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2009-2021 Ducati Monster with 6 documented issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports.
What is the 2015-2018 Ducati Monster Front brake master cylinder piston can crack — recall 17V812?
A crack can form in the front brake master cylinder piston, which on affected bikes is made of polyphenylene sulphide (PPS) plastic. The master cylinder may then not build enough pressure, reducing front braking and leaving only the rear brake, which can significantly lengthen st… Severity: high.
What is the 2011-2012 Ducati Monster Rear wheel spokes can crack — recall 12V073?
In Ducati's quality tests, cracks could develop in one or more spokes of the rear wheel rim over time. If left unchecked, the cracking could lead to failure of the rear wheel, which may make the motorcycle unstable and could cause a crash. Applies to: Certain model-year 2011 and… Severity: high.
What is the 2012 Ducati Monster Fuel lines can micro-crack and seep fuel at the pump flange — recall 12V053?
Because raw material was not dried correctly before extrusion, the inner surface of the fuel lines can micro-crack, and fuel can seep or leak where the lines connect to the fuel pump flange. Leaking fuel near an ignition source could start a fire, causing property damage or injur… Severity: high.
What is the 2014-2021 Ducati Monster Rear brake hoses can let in air or be damaged by exhaust heat — recalls 21V315 and 21V335?
Two separate recalls cover the rear brake hoses. Under 21V315, gas can permeate the rear hose material and reduce rear brake effectiveness, lengthening stopping distances. Under 21V335, a rear hose material with lower heat resistance, exposed in one area to hot exhaust-manifold a… Severity: high.
What is the 2009-2010 Ducati Monster Dry clutch basket slots and plate tabs wear, making the clutch noisy and draggy (owner reports)?
Owners report that on the dry-clutch Monster 1100 and 1100 S the clutch basket wears grooves where the friction-plate tabs sit, and the gap between tab and basket grows, so the clutch rattles more. Owners say the ridges can stop the plates separating fully, giving notchy gear cha… Severity: medium.
What is the 2017-2019 Ducati Monster Gear-shift lever tip can come out — recall 18V835?
Because of a supplier error, the interference fit between the gear-shift lever and its tip (knob) may be non-conforming, and in some cases the tip can come out. The shift lever can then fail, possibly leaving the rider unable to shift gears, or causing a crash. Applies to: 2017–2… Severity: medium.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public motorcycle data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.