Harley-Davidson Softail years to avoid
Across 1995–2013, no single Softail year stands out as one to avoid by our thresholds. The 2003 drew the most complaints; 1999 the fewest.
54
Total complaints
9
Recall campaigns
1995–2013
Years covered
0
Years to avoid
Complaints by model year
Every Softail year
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Investigations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 1 | 0 | |
| 2012 | 4 | 1 | |
| 2011 | 3 | 1 | |
| 2010 | 1 | 0 | |
| 2008 | 2 | 0 | |
| 2007 | 3 | 1 | |
| 2005 | 4 | 3 | |
| 2004 | 4 | 1 | |
| 2003 | 8 | 0 | |
| 2002 | 5 | 0 | |
| 2001 | 2 | 0 | |
| 2000 | 7 | 0 | |
| 1999 | 0 | 1 | |
| 1998 | 3 | 1 | |
| 1997 | 1 | 1 | |
| 1996 | 3 | 1 | |
| 1995 | 3 | 1 |
Common questions
What is the best year for the Harley-Davidson Softail?
By complaint volume, 1999 has the cleanest NHTSA record among Softail years with enough data to compare.
How many recalls does the Harley-Davidson Softail have?
Across all model years, the Softail has 9 distinct NHTSA recall campaigns and 54 consumer complaints on file.
Based on NHTSA ODI data through August 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated August 28, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.