Harley-Davidson recalls 88,000 motorcycles: Here's why

Harley-Davidson is recalling 88039 motorcycles because of a safety defect which causes oil to eject from the engine fill spout when the dipstick gets removed thus creating a burn hazard and injury risk to all nearby individuals.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration received the recall which affects certain 2024 2025 and 2026 model year motorcycles that contain a particular airbox baseplate function.

Harley-Davidson is recalling 88,039 motorcycles following a safety defect that can cause oil to eject forcefully from the engine's fill spout creating a burn and injury risk for anyone nearby when the dipstick is removed.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration received a recall which includes specific 2024 through 2026 motorcycle models that use particular airbox baseplate components.

Which Harley-Davidson models are affected?

The nine models that got recalled includes, Road Glide (FLTRX) and Street Glide (FLHX) are affected for model years 2024 through 2026. The Breakout (FXBR) and Fat Boy (FLFB) are included for 2025 and 2026.

The Street Glide Ultra (FLHXU) is affected for 2025 only. The list includes five models which are exclusive to the 2026 model year the Road Glide Limited (FLTRXL) Road Glide 3 (FLTRT) Street Glide Limited (FLHXL) and Heritage Classic (FLHLT).

All affected units were built with airbox baseplate part number 29000373. NHTSA estimates that approximately 0.4% of the recalled motorcycles actually carry the defect but owners of all listed models should have their bike inspected regardless because there is no safe way to identify a blocked breather port without examination.

The issue originates in the airbox baseplate, a component that sits within the engine's air intake system. On affected units, the breather port in the baseplate may be blocked. That port is designed to vent pressure that builds naturally inside the crankcase during engine operation. When the port is blocked, that pressure has nowhere to go.

Under the recall, authorised Harley-Davidson dealers will inspect the breather port on affected motorcycles. If the port is found to be blocked, the dealer will repair it at no cost to the owner. Harley-Davidson is expected to begin mailing notification letters to affected owners on May 11, 2026.