VehicleVerdict

Harley-Davidson Xl years to avoid

Across 1989–2005, no single Xl year stands out as one to avoid by our thresholds. The 2005 drew the most complaints; 1997 the fewest.

8

Total complaints

4

Recall campaigns

1989–2005

Years covered

0

Years to avoid

Complaints by model year

Harley-Davidson Xl NHTSA complaints by model year4 complaints1989: 0 complaints1990: 0 complaints1995: 0 complaints1996: 0 complaints1997: 0 complaints1998: 2 complaints1999: 2 complaints2005: 4 complaints
Harley-Davidson Xl NHTSA complaints by model year. Red bars are years to avoid.

Every Xl year

YearComplaintsRecalls
200541
199920
199820
199701
199601
199501
199002
198901

Common questions

What is the best year for the Harley-Davidson Xl?

By complaint volume, 1997 has the cleanest NHTSA record among Xl years with enough data to compare.

How many recalls does the Harley-Davidson Xl have?

Across all model years, the Xl has 4 distinct NHTSA recall campaigns and 8 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.