If You Own A New Suzuki DR-Z400S or SM, There's A Recall For A Rear Brake Issue

Proper tightening torques really do matter, whether it's coming from the factory, at a shop, or in your garage. Please check them.

Photo by: Suzuki

By: Janaki Jitchotvisut

Dec 29, 2025 at 9:46am ET

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Suzuki Motor USA is recalling all 2025 and some 2026 DR-Z400S and DR-Z400SM motorcycles sold in the US over a specific rear brake issue. The problem? Screws used to fix the reservoir tank for the rear brake master cylinder reservoir were not tightened properly on the affected motorcycles.

If this situation exists on a bike, it could result in leaking brake fluid and possibly in the rear brake not working as it should, which could increase your risk of a crash and/or injury. Also, it can result in brake fluid leaking onto places it shouldn't; and remember, brake fluid can do a number on your paint.

According to Suzuki's records, approximately 3,003 motorcycles are believed to be affected. This represents 100% of the population. All 2025 DR-Zs are included in this recall, as well as 2026 model year bikes that were produced prior to November 14, 2025.

As for any warning signs that may occur to indicate that this issue exists, Suzuki says that you may be able to spot leaking brake fluid on the rear brake master cylinder cap seal and/or reservoir via a visual inspection. Suzuki has been tracking and working to diagnose the root cause of this issue since November 2025, and eventually traced it back to a tool with an incorrect torque setting that was used in the production process.

As of November 18, 2025, Suzuki introduced a confirmation process to check that proper torque was applied to screws on motorcycles produced from that date forward. Thus, those motorcycles should not be affected by this issue.

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Suzuki notified its dealer network about this issue on December 17, 2025. It plans to notify registered owners of affected DR-Zs on or about January 9, 2025. Owners will be instructed to contact their local authorized Suzuki dealer for inspection and recall service, which will be provided at no charge to the customer.

Owners may contact Suzuki customer service at 1-800-934-0934. Additionally, owners may contact the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-888-275-9171) or go to www.nhtsa.gov.