Zero Zero S
2012–2012
Data Availability
Milemark has only 1 classified NHTSA complaint on record for the 2012 Zero S electric motorcycle. This extremely limited data means we cannot draw meaningful conclusions about owner-reported problems. Zero motorcycles are specialty vehicles with relatively low production volumes, which typically results in fewer complaints regardless of actual reliability.
What We Know From Recalls
Zero issued 6 recall campaigns for the 2012 S model—a significant number for a single model year. Key areas: 12V/24V/48V battery issues (2 recalls), electrical software, brake light switches, and hybrid propulsion system components. These government-documented defects indicate real quality control challenges during this early production period.
How to Research Further
Given the data gaps, take these steps: check the VIN for all recall completions (critical for battery/electrical safety), arrange a pre-purchase inspection by an EV-qualified mechanic, and consult Zero-specific forums like elmoto.net where early adopters document long-term experiences with 2012 models. Battery capacity degradation is a key concern for any used electric vehicle of this age.
Trends
Complaint trends by era
Click a window below to see complaint data scoped to just those years.
5-year windows, not manufacturer generations — this database doesn't have reliable platform/redesign data to draw real generation boundaries from. Recent model years show fewer complaints mainly because they have been on the road less time, not necessarily because they're more reliable — read this as complaint volume and mix by era, not a reliability trend.
What breaks, and when
Median onset: 600 miles.
Typically $230–$2,310 to fix a wheels_tyres repair, nationally.
From owner-filed complaints to NHTSA, not independently verified. Federal mileage reporting on recent complaints is sparse — see methodology. Cost ranges are national estimates from book labor hours and parts pricing, not this vehicle's actual repair history — they don't account for your location or shop type.
Sources: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — complaints, recalls, investigations, service bulletins. Methodology. This is not an inspection and not a recommendation to buy or avoid this vehicle.