Top 5 Problems With the 2022 Honda Gold Wing Tour

The Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) on the Gold Wing is generally smooth, but some 2022 owners report occasional clunky shifts, particularly at low speeds or during specific gear changes, which can detract from the premium riding experience. This can manifest as harsh engagements or unexpected behavior from the automatic transmission.

Symptoms drivers notice

• Harsh engagement or jolt when starting from a stop.
• Noticeable 'clunk' during upshifts or downshifts, especially at low speeds.
• Hesitation or delayed response when the transmission attempts to shift.
• Unexpected shifts or gear hunting in 'Drive' mode.
• Difficulty or delay in engaging reverse gear.

Typical repair cost and time

DIY: $0 (software update/adaptation) | Shop: $100-$300 (dealer diagnostic/reflash) to $500-$1500+ (if internal component issue, rare for new models).

How to diagnose and fix

1. Verify the selected riding mode (Tour, Sport, Rain, Econ) and ensure it's appropriate for current conditions.
2. Check for any available software updates for the DCT control unit at a Honda dealership, as these often address shifting logic.
3. Request a DCT clutch learn procedure or adaptation reset from a Honda technician.
4. Inspect the transmission fluid level and condition; ensure it's at the correct specification and free of contamination.
5. Have a Honda technician diagnose for any stored fault codes or potential internal transmission wear, though unlikely for a 2022 model.

The advanced infotainment system on the 2022 Gold Wing Tour, while feature-rich, can suffer from software glitches, freezing, and inconsistent connectivity with smartphones, particularly with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. These issues can disrupt navigation, communication, and audio playback.

Symptoms drivers notice

• Infotainment screen freezing or becoming unresponsive during operation.
• Intermittent or complete failure of Apple CarPlay/Android Auto to connect or stay connected.
• Bluetooth pairing difficulties or dropped connections with headsets and phones.
• Navigation system lagging, displaying incorrect information, or failing to load maps.
• Audio cutting out, distorting, or failing to play through speakers or headset.
• System requiring frequent restarts to restore functionality.

Typical repair cost and time

DIY: $0 (user troubleshooting/software update) | Shop: $200-$500 (dealer diagnostic/software reflash) to $1000-$2500+ (head unit replacement, rare).

How to diagnose and fix

1. Ensure smartphone software is up to date and restart the phone before attempting connection.
2. Perform a soft reset of the Gold Wing's infotainment system by following the procedure in the owner's manual.
3. Check USB cables for damage and ensure they are MFi certified for Apple devices, as cheap cables can cause issues.
4. Verify the motorcycle's infotainment software is updated to the latest version at a Honda dealership.
5. Delete and re-pair all Bluetooth devices and re-establish CarPlay/Android Auto connections from scratch.
6. If issues persist, a dealer diagnosis may be required to check for head unit hardware faults or deeper software corruption.

While the 2022 Gold Wing Tour offers a comfortable ride, some owners, especially those frequently riding with a passenger or heavy luggage, report that the rear suspension feels too soft and prone to bottoming out over bumps. This can significantly impact ride comfort and handling stability.

Symptoms drivers notice

• Harsh jolts felt through the seat over moderate to large bumps or potholes.
• Visible compression of the rear suspension beyond normal travel, indicating bottoming out.
• Reduced stability or a 'wallowing' sensation when cornering, especially with a load.
• Excessive sag in the rear end when parked with a passenger or luggage.
• Reduced ground clearance, leading to scraping over speed bumps or driveways.
• Difficulty maintaining consistent headlight aim due to rear sag.

Typical repair cost and time

DIY: $0 (adjustment) | Shop: $100-$300 (dealer adjustment/minor part) to $1000-$2500+ (aftermarket shock/spring upgrade).

How to diagnose and fix

1. Consult the owner's manual for proper electronic preload adjustment based on load (rider only, rider + passenger, rider + passenger + luggage).
2. Verify the current suspension setting is appropriate for the riding conditions and typical load.
3. Inspect the rear shock absorber for any signs of leakage, damage, or worn bushings.
4. Have a Honda technician check the electronic suspension components for proper operation and calibration.
5. Consider aftermarket suspension upgrades, such as a stiffer spring or a replacement shock, if the stock setup remains inadequate for specific riding needs.
6. Ensure tire pressures are correctly set, as incorrect pressure can mimic suspension issues.

The 2022 Honda Gold Wing Tour, with its extensive electronic features and sophisticated systems, can be susceptible to battery drain if left unused for extended periods. This parasitic draw can lead to difficulty starting the motorcycle or complete battery failure, especially in colder climates.

Symptoms drivers notice

• Slow cranking or failure to start after the motorcycle has sat for a few days.
• Dashboard lights flickering or dimming during startup attempts.
• Loss of clock settings, trip meter data, or radio presets.
• Error messages related to low voltage appearing on the display.
• Battery tender constantly showing a charging status, indicating continuous draw.
• Battery feels warm to the touch even when the bike is off (rare, but indicates severe draw).

Typical repair cost and time

DIY: $0 (battery tender) to $150-$250 (new battery) | Shop: $200-$500 (dealer parasitic draw diagnosis).

How to diagnose and fix

1. Connect the motorcycle to a high-quality battery tender when not in use for more than a few days, especially during off-season storage.
2. Check battery terminals for corrosion and ensure they are clean and tightly secured.
3. Test the battery's voltage with a multimeter; a healthy battery should read 12.6V or higher when off.
4. Have the battery load-tested at a dealership or auto parts store to check its overall health and capacity.
5. If the battery is healthy but still drains, a parasitic draw test may be needed by a professional to identify the culprit component.
6. Ensure all accessories (GPS, heated gear, etc.) are fully disconnected or turned off when the bike is parked.

Some owners of the 2022 Honda Gold Wing Tour have reported persistent squealing or grinding noises from the front brakes, particularly at low speeds. This can be an annoyance and, in some cases, may suggest an issue with the brake components that requires attention.

Symptoms drivers notice

• High-pitched squeal when applying the front brakes, especially at low speeds.
• Grinding or rubbing noise from the front wheel area during braking.
• Vibration felt through the handlebars during braking (less common with just squeal).
• Reduced braking performance or a 'spongy' feel (indicates more serious issue).
• Visible uneven pad wear or scoring on the brake rotors.
• Dust buildup on wheels from excessive brake pad wear.

Typical repair cost and time

DIY: $0 (cleaning) to $50-$150 (brake pad cleaning/anti-squeal compound) | Shop: $150-$300 (pad replacement) to $300-$600 (new pads/rotors, per axle).

How to diagnose and fix

1. Inspect brake pads for wear and ensure they are not excessively worn, glazed, or contaminated.
2. Clean brake calipers, pads, and rotors thoroughly with a dedicated brake cleaner to remove dirt, dust, and debris.
3. Apply anti-squeal compound or shims to the back of the brake pads where they contact the caliper pistons.
4. Check brake rotors for warping, scoring, or uneven wear that could contribute to noise.
5. Ensure caliper pistons are moving freely and not sticking; lubricate slide pins if necessary.
6. If noise persists after cleaning and lubrication, consider replacing brake pads with a different compound or replacing rotors if damaged.

Which problem to fix first

For most 2022 Honda Gold Wing Tour owners, addressing any issues that directly impact safety or rideability should be prioritized. This includes persistent brake squeal, which could indicate underlying brake issues, or severe suspension bottoming out that affects handling. Battery drain should also be addressed promptly to prevent being stranded. Infotainment glitches, while annoying, are generally less critical unless they interfere with essential navigation or communication features. DCT shifting quirks often require dealer assessment as they can be characteristic or indicate a need for a software update.

When to see a professional

While basic troubleshooting like checking connections, resetting systems, or ensuring proper battery maintenance can be done by the owner, any persistent issues with the DCT, electronic suspension, or complex infotainment system should be handled by a certified Honda technician. These systems are highly integrated and require specialized diagnostic tools and knowledge. Additionally, any brake issues beyond simple cleaning or pad replacement should always be professionally inspected to ensure rider safety.

Frequently asked questions

### Is the 2022 Honda Gold Wing Tour reliable?

The 2022 Honda Gold Wing Tour is generally considered a very reliable motorcycle, upholding Honda's reputation for quality. Most reported issues are minor software glitches, characteristic quirks, or maintenance-related, rather than major mechanical failures.

### Does the 2022 Gold Wing Tour have any recalls?

As of early 2024, there have been no major safety recalls specifically for the 2022 Honda Gold Wing Tour in the US market. Owners should always check the NHTSA website or contact their dealer for the most up-to-date recall information.

### How often should I service my 2022 Gold Wing Tour?

Honda recommends regular service intervals for the 2022 Gold Wing Tour, typically every 4,000 to 8,000 miles or annually, depending on usage. Adhering to the manufacturer's maintenance schedule is crucial for optimal performance and longevity.

Sources and further reading

Owner forums, NHTSA complaints, and OEM TSB summaries informed this guide.

This guide is not a substitute for OEM service procedures; use a qualified technician for safety-critical work.