Harley-Davidson XL problems & recalls
NHTSA records for 1990–2005: 4 recall campaigns and 7 owner complaints. Pick a model year.
By year
What owners complain about (all years)
Recent recalls
Fuel System, Gasoline #04V465000 · 2004 · 2,828 units
Problem: On certain motorcycles, a condition occurs that could allow pressure to build up in the fuel tank. on fuel injected vehicles, this condition could cause fuel to spray out unexpectedly when the fuel cap is removed. on carbureted vehicles, excessive fuel could be transferred to the carburetor, which would eventually allow fuel to drip from the air cleaner.
Risk: These situations could cause serious personal injury or create a fire hazard for persons or property on or near the motorcycle.
Fix: Dealers will test each canister for blockage, then replace as necessary. the recall began november 4, 2004. owners should contact harley-davidson at 1-414-343-4056.
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.
Electrical System #90V002000 · 1990 · 1,914 units
Problem: A short circuit could develop due to possible chafing where the battery cable is close to the evaporative emissions control system.
Risk: Battery cable might overheat and result in a fire.
Fix: Replace battery cable and other appropriate parts.
Electrical System #90V102000 · 1990 · 3,268 units
Problem: Wireform that secures rubber grommets, which serve as a routing guide for the positive battery cable, may not meet specifications.
Risk: Wireforms could chafe the positive battery cable andcause a short circuit to the motorcycle chassis during operation.
Fix: Replace positive battery cable wireform with wireform that that meets specifications.
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 XL.
Motorcycle-specific service manuals with step-by-step procedures (Clymer is part of Haynes).
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