KTM 390 and Husqvarna 401 Models Recalled for ECU Issue
KTM North America announced a recall on models using its 390 platform, including Husqvarna 401 models because of a software issue that can cause their engines to stall at low rpms. As of this writing, the recall affects the 2025 KTM 390 Adventure R, 390 Adventure X, 390 Enduro R, and 390 SMC R, and the 2024-2025 390 Duke. On the Husqvarna side, the recall affects the 2024 Svartpilen 401 and Vitpilen 401.
According to the recall documentation released by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an issue with the stock engine control unit software may cause affected engines to stall at low engine speeds. NHTSA currently counts 6,546 motorcycles potentially affected by the recall.
KTM North America was first alerted to the issue on July 29, after receiving a report of a motorcycle losing power while riding. From August 1 to November 8, the parent company KTM AG gathered further data from customer reports, vehicle owner questionnaires from NHTSA and technical service reports to investigate the problem. On November 6, KTM AG determined the ECU was the cause and began recall procedures.
Husqvarna and KTM dealers will inspect affected models and install updated ECU software. The revised software makes changes to injection timing, fueling, ignition timing, throttle control, and the preset ride modes. According to KTM, the updated programming should significantly reduce the risk of engine stalling at low speeds and during deceleration, while also improving rideability with improved low-end torque and improved stability.
Begin Press Release:
Husqvarna Mobility recalls 2024-2026 Svartpilen and Vitpilen 401 models
Update of the engine control unit software by an authorised Husqvarna Mobility dealership is required.
At Husqvarna Mobility, rider safety and satisfaction remain the highest priorities. As part of a continuous commitment to uncompromising quality and reliability, Husqvarna Mobility is proactively initiating a safety update for the 2024-2026 Svartpilen and Vitpilen 401 models.
During internal quality checks, a condition was identified that, in rare cases, could cause the engine to stall at low rpms. Although only a limited number of cases have been observed, Husqvarna Mobility is taking immediate preventive action to eliminate any potential risk and ensure complete peace of mind for riders.
An update to the engine control unit (ECU) software will be carried out on all affected motorcycles. This update not only addresses the issue but also enhances rideability, delivering improved low-end torque and greater engine stability for an even more refined riding experience.
Owners of affected motorcycles will receive a personal notification by letter and are invited to contact an authorised Husqvarna Mobility dealership to schedule a complimentary software update. The update will be performed free of charge and exclusively by authorised dealers.
Customers can verify whether their motorcycle is affected by visiting the “ Service” section on the official Husqvarna Mobility website, where a full list of authorised dealerships is also available for quick and convenient assistance.
This proactive measure reflects Husqvarna Mobility’s dedication to rider safety, product quality, and long-term customer trust. By acting swiftly and transparently, Husqvarna Mobility ensures that every ride remains safe, reliable, and enjoyable.
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Dennis has been a part of the Motorcycle.com team since 2008, and through his tenure, has developed a firm grasp of industry trends, and a solid sense of what's to come. A bloodhound when it comes to tracking information on new motorcycles, if there's a new model on the horizon, you'll probably hear about it from him first.
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Ouch! Can KTM really afford this right now? Hopefully Bajaj will help them turn this corner, but I'm not going to hold my breath for now.
Considering KTM"s recent lack of transparency, the conspiracy theorist in me wonders if it was a known issue but necessary to pass Euro 5+... and the "fix" will make it no longer compliant. Enquiring minds want to know... ;)
Just about every non-shilling honest review in the new 390 series bikes have said there’s near zero torque until half the revs are already wasted, and the things stall super easily. And those who went to the trouble of an ECU fix said it’s much better, but still lacks decent low end torque for a thumper. No such opinions about the new DR-Z4S have been mentioned by any reviewers.