My Aprilia blew up
I’m currently in a dispute with Peter Stevens Motorcycles and the warranty assessor PSImporters regarding an engine failure on a near-new Aprilia RS457 (8369 kms, 14 months old) that was serviced at 1014kms and 6214kms. I wanted to see whether others have experienced something similar or have advice regarding warranty/ACL processes in Australia.
The bike had relatively low kms only having been serviced 2000kms ago, a full service history, and no warning lights or alerts prior to the failure. After the incident, I was informed the engine was 800ml low on oil, and the warranty claim has so far been rejected on that basis.
My concern is that the core issue does not appear to have been addressed - namely, how a modern four-stroke bike with low kms could allegedly consume enough oil to result in catastrophic engine failure without any meaningful indication to the rider.
The bike relies primarily on a sight glass for routine oil level checks, and prior to the incident the oil level appeared normal to me.
I’ve requested:
- clarification regarding any known oil consumption characteristics for this model
- any technical bulletins or manufacturer guidance relevant to oil monitoring
- confirmation that evidence from the inspection will be preserved
- a written report and photographs following inspection
At this stage I still consider the matter unresolved and am reviewing my options under Australian Consumer Law, including consumer guarantees relating to acceptable quality and durability.
If anyone has experience with warranty disputes involving engine failures, manufacturer inspections, or Consumer Affairs Victoria / ACL processes, I’d appreciate hearing your experience.