VehicleVerdict

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

YearComplaintsRecalls
201310
201241
201131
201010
200820
200731
200543
200441
200380
200250
200120
200070
199901
199831
199711
199631
199531

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 June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.

Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.