Historic codes assist with intermittent issues or faults. Historic codes remain saved until they are intentionally cleared or roughly 40 ignition cycles (on/off) without recurrence. Simply clearing the code won’t resolve the issue, as the code will return once enough drive cycles occur in which the system recognizes the fault again. Trouble codes fall into one of three categories:Ĭurrent codes display when the system detects an active fault. This will allow you to cycle through the categories, and see which one indicates a code. To enter the diagnostic system and retrieve a trouble code, hold down the trip reset button while turning the ignition from off to on. Luckily, H motorcycles have the ability to display Harley error codes right on the dash, no tool required! However, some bikes require an external diagnostic tool. Harley trouble codes categories: (categories may vary based on model year and options)Īll fuel-injected motorcycles have the ability to communicate trouble codes.

A Harley-Davidson dealership service department or other qualified technician is your best bet if you are not comfortable or experienced with diagnosing electrical issues. Presence of a code doesn’t mean you should start replacing parts. A DTC is directional information for an owner or technician to begin diagnostic work. If the vehicle’s electronic control module detects an error within the system, it “throws a code,” causing the check engine light to illuminate. SAE convention for identifying and labeling onboard faults. Following the trend of automotive manufacturers, motorcycle manufacturers like Harley-Davidson adopted the standardized While this transition to EFI gave riders a simpler and more enjoyable ownership experience, it also made diagnostic work more challenging. Over the years, manufacturers like Harley-Davidson transitioned to fuel injection for a variety of reasons, including reliability, simplicity, Prior to electronic fuel injection (EFI), motorcycles had few, if any, sensors or complicated electronic equipment. Once exclusive to the automotive industry, motorcycle manufacturers like Harley-Davidson rely on onboard diagnostics to assist owners and technicians when a fault occurs. What Does a Check Engine Light Mean?Īn illuminated check engine light is an indication that the motorcycle’s onboard diagnostic system detects a current or historic trouble code, known as diagnostic trouble codes (DTC). Keep reading below for information about how to determine which trouble code is associated with the CEL. These questions are very common when a Harley-Davidson check engine light stays on. What should youĭo, what does it mean? Is this cause for a tow? Can the bike operate normally until you can get it into a shop? Or, what might be even more confusing, the light comes on but the bike seems completely fine. The check engine light (CEL) on your dash illuminates, and your Harley-Davidson isn’t running right.

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