Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 1988 Harley-Davidson Fxsts — too few to judge reliability from owner reports alone — but one recall campaign applies to this year, so any used example should have its VIN checked for completed recall work.
0
NHTSA complaints
1
Recalls
0
Investigations
0
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
1 NHTSA recall campaign on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Defect
FRONT BRAKE CALIPER IS SUBJECT TO LOOSEN.
Consequence
THIS COULD RESULT IN FRONT WHEEL SEIZURE WITH POTENTIALFOR AN ACCIDENT.
Remedy
REPLACE THE UPPER BOLT ON THE BRAKE CALIPER; ALSO INSTALL A WASHER AND COTTER PIN TO FURTHER RESTRAIN MOVEMENT.
The record is thin — 0 NHTSA complaints — so owner-report data can't strongly confirm reliability either way, though 1 recall should be verified as completed.
Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign affecting the 1988 Harley-Davidson Fxsts. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers; check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the work was done.
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.