2014-2022 Yamaha MT-09 Problems: 6 Known Issues
2014-2022 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 2014-2022 Yamaha MT-09 has 6 documented known issues, with 4 rated critical. The most serious are Shift cam stopper can crack and stop the gearbox shifting — recall 15V176, Short headlight lead can break or unplug at full steering lock — recall 14V550, Lower handlebar holder can work loose from the top clamp — recall 17V221 and ECU software can stall the engine or limit throttle response — recall 22V130.
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NHTSA Recalls2 recalls
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM):SOFTWARE
Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (Yamaha) is recalling certain 2021-2022 MT-09, MT-09 SP, and MTT9GT (Tracer 9 GT) motorcycles. Improper electronic control unit (ECU) programming may limit the throttle response, cause an engine stall, or fail to illuminate the engine warning light when a system error occurs.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:THROTTLE:THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR (TPS)
Pure Sports Distributing Inc. (Yamaha of Hawaii) is recalling certain 2022 MT-09 Tracer GT, 2021-2025 MT-09 SP, 2021-2025 MT-09, 2022-2023 and 2025 MT-10 SP, 2022-2024 MT-10 and 2022-2024 XSR900 motorcycles. The brushes inside the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) may slide excessively due to improper ECU programming, possibly causing unstable idling or an engine stall.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Yamaha MT-09 problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2014-2022 Yamaha MT-09 has 6 documented issues. Documented issues include: Shift cam stopper can crack and stop the gearbox shifting — recall 15V176, Short headlight lead can break or unplug at full steering lock — recall 14V550, Lower handlebar holder can work loose from the top clamp — recall 17V221. Of these, 4 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Yamaha MT-09 reliable?
The 2014-2022 Yamaha MT-09 has 6 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 4 issues are rated critical: Shift cam stopper can crack and stop the gearbox shifting — recall 15V176 and Short headlight lead can break or unplug at full steering lock — recall 14V550 and Lower handlebar holder can work loose from the top clamp — recall 17V221 and ECU software can stall the engine or limit throttle response — recall 22V130. 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 Yamaha MT-09 is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Yamaha MT-09. 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 2014-2022 Yamaha MT-09 with 6 documented issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports.
What is the 2015 Yamaha MT-09 Shift cam stopper can crack and stop the gearbox shifting — recall 15V176?
The shift cam segment stopper on the transmission shift shaft was made with a sharp edge on the inside of its bend instead of a smooth radius. It can crack from fatigue and, in the worst case, break and prevent the transmission from shifting properly; increased difficulty shiftin… Severity: high.
What is the 2014 Yamaha MT-09 Short headlight lead can break or unplug at full steering lock — recall 14V550?
The headlight lead wire is too short, so it can be stretched when the handlebars are turned fully left or right. Repeated stretching can disconnect the headlight coupler from the bulb or break the lead near the coupler, and the headlight would then malfunction. Applies to: 2014 Y… Severity: high.
What is the 2014-2017 Yamaha MT-09 Lower handlebar holder can work loose from the top clamp — recall 17V221?
The lower handlebar holder may have been painted improperly and its stud bolt threads may lack enough thread-locking agent. After a strong impact to the handlebar the paint can wear away, letting engine vibration loosen the stud; the holder can then come loose from the handle cro… Severity: high.
What is the 2021-2022 Yamaha MT-09 ECU software can stall the engine or limit throttle response — recall 22V130?
Improper ECU programming can make the engine stall when the clutch lever is not fully pulled in during downshifting or when the throttle is opened slightly from idle. Throttle response can also be limited if the throttle was closed fully during deceleration, with the engine troub… Severity: high.
What is the 2014-2016 Yamaha MT-09 Cam chain tensioner rattle on the 847cc triple (owner reports)?
Owners report a rattle from the cam chain tensioner on the 847cc triple, worst on cold start, at lower revs or when decelerating, starting from low mileage. Owners describe dealers adjusting the tensioner, the noise returning, and the tensioner then being replaced under warranty… Severity: medium.
What is the 2014-2016 Yamaha MT-09 Soft front fork and rear shock on the early FZ-09 (owner reports)?
Owners of early FZ-09 / MT-09 bikes report that the stock front fork is soft, especially for heavier riders, and that the stock rear shock works poorly for some rider weights. Applies to: 2014-2016 Yamaha FZ-09 / MT-09 (first generation, 847cc, before the 2017 update added fork c… Severity: low.
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.