2002 Harley-Davidson Sportster recalls and problems

There are no safety recalls for the 2002 Harley-Davidson Sportster, but owners have filed 6 complaints with NHTSA.

Recalls

Complaints

Crashes / fires

0 / 0

Injuries / deaths

1 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2002 Harley-Davidson Sportster vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2002 Harley-Davidson Sportster problems reported by owners

Problem area	Reports
Visibility	3
Engine and Engine Cooling	2
Fuel System, Gasoline	1
Power Train	1

Most reported parts

Visibility › Rearview Mirrors/Devices — 2
Fuel System, Gasoline › Carburetor System — 1
Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine › Gasoline — 1
Visibility › Rearview Mirrors/Devices › Exterior — 1
Power Train › Manual Transmission — 1
Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 6,000 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 2002 Harley-Davidson Sportster complaints

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

Engine and Engine Cooling · at 3,682 miles · reported Dec 5, 2005

Dt: the contact stated the rear upper valve cover leaked. The dealership replaced the front and rear upper valve covers. Since the valves were replaced the problem has not returned. Updated 1/4/2006 - the rear rocker box cover leaked. The front and rear box cover were replaced. The gaskets were replaced with updated ones.

Power Train · at 6,000 miles · reported Dec 1, 2003

After motorcycle has been ridden for 30-45 minutes shift lever becomes almost unusable if motorcycle has been left to idle of is turned off, after a few minutes of moving up and down it can be used. Very dangerous if I can not shift into appropriate gear.

Visibility · reported Aug 16, 2002

Custom 1200, mirrors on vehicle are very high stemmed, vibration will not allow rider to see traffic behind him when changing lanes. Dealer stated there was nothing he could do.

Fuel System, Gasoline · reported Apr 10, 2002

While driving, intake manifold leaks and motorcycle completely shuts down. Consumer adds that bike would stall intermittently and is also making a popping noise and backfiring.

Other Harley-Davidson Sportster years

2005 200320022001 2000

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

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2002 Harley-Davidson Sportster have any recalls?

No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2002 Harley-Davidson Sportster as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.

What is the most common problem with the 2002 Harley-Davidson Sportster?

Owners report visibility problems most often (3 reports), followed by engine and engine cooling (2). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 6,000 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.