2003 Harley-Davidson Softail recalls and problems

There are no safety recalls for the 2003 Harley-Davidson Softail, but owners have filed 7 complaints with NHTSA.

Recalls

Complaints

Crashes / fires

1 / 1

Injuries / deaths

2 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2003 Harley-Davidson Softail vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2003 Harley-Davidson Softail problems reported by owners

Problem area	Reports
Fuel System, Gasoline	3
Structure	2
Tires	1
Equipment Adaptive/Mobility	1
Engine	1

Most reported parts

Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 1,000 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2003 Harley-Davidson Softail complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Fuel System, Gasoline · at 30,000 miles · reported Apr 17, 2012

The contact owns a 2003 harley davidson soft tale deuce motorcycle. While examining the vehicle, the contact noticed that the fuel line was causing friction to the inner fuel tank and bore several holes in the fuel line. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the fuel lines were replaced. The current and failure mileages were 30,000. Updated 06/05/12 the cam tensioner wear block failed.

Equipment Adaptive/Mobility · reported Jul 5, 2004

Most of the harley davidson motorcycles have the passenger footrest right beside or overtop of the exhaust. This has caused me to actually burn through my protective boots I wear. I have not been injured yet, but should a child or person who does not wear protective shoes could seriously have major burns to their feet and ankles.

Structure · reported Nov 19, 2003

Problems with frame on 2003 sundance softail. The dealer/manufacturer stated that the frame was not aligned properly and would not track on the highway. The frame was taken to an uninterested third party and placed on a laser frame machine. The results supported the dealer/manufacturer evaluation. The manufacturer would not respond to the consumer.

Fuel System, Gasoline · at 250 miles · reported Nov 2, 2003

My brother had a low speed (Under 20 MPH) crash on a 2003 harley heritage softail. Upon hitting the ground, the bike burst into flames. This is very unusual as the speed was low, the impact was not severe (My brother ended up with a severely sprained ankle), but the bike was totaled. I believe there is cause for concern. The bike is a fuel injected twin cam 88 engine.

Structure · reported Jul 12, 2003

When getting off of back of harley davidson my leg got caught on the license plate and tore my leg open. Went to er where I had to have stitches on the inside of the wound and on the outside. Very painful! Placement of license plate holder is not safe.

Other Harley-Davidson Softail years

2012 2011 2007 2005 200420032002 2000

Compare all Harley-Davidson Softail years · All Harley-Davidson models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2003 Harley-Davidson Softail have any recalls?

No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2003 Harley-Davidson Softail as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.

What is the most common problem with the 2003 Harley-Davidson Softail?

Owners report fuel system, gasoline problems most often (3 reports), followed by structure (2). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 1,000 miles.

Are Harley-Davidson recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Harley-Davidson dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.