1996 Harley-Davidson Softail problems & recalls
NHTSA recalls and owner complaints for the 1996 Harley-Davidson Softail.
Recalls
Fuel System, Gasoline #96V204000 · 1996 · 176,515 units
Problem: The effects of reformulated gasoline along with certain usage of the fuel supply valve affects the supply of gasoline to the carburetor. this condition requires two factors: (1) the use of reformulated fuels containing mbte and (2) starting the motorcycle with the fuel valve handle in the off position.
Risk: This condition can cause the fuel flow to be unpredictable thus causing the engine to shut down increasing the risk of a motorcycle accident.
Fix: Dealers the replace the diaphragm in the fuel valve.
Recalls can cover only some VINs. Check yours at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What owners complain about
Components named in 3 NHTSA owner complaints. Complaints are unverified.
Want the full repair deets? Get the service manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 1996 Softail.
Motorcycle-specific service manuals with step-by-step procedures (Clymer is part of Haynes).
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Specs
Specs coming soon. We only publish specs taken from the manufacturer's own spec sheets.
Other years
FAQ
Does the 1996 Harley-Davidson Softail have recalls?
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 1996 Harley-Davidson Softail. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if a fix is still open.
What are the most common 1996 Harley-Davidson Softail problems?
In 3 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-named area is fuel system, gasoline.