Harley Davidson How to CHECK CODES

Harley Davidson how to check codes is the first step into what route to take during electrical diagnostics. After making sure your battery is fully charged, knowing what codes the bike may have thrown will help you in what to check next! In this video, I'll show you how to get the code (for free). Once you know the code, google (also free) can help you figure out what it means!
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[@WillBelden]

Thanks for this video. 2016 Heritage. Throwing codes. In my case, if anyone's interested, I would only notice it when the cruise control disengaged, then the red dash light would come on. I had two codes (BCM 62262 and ABS C1094). Both "front brake switch stuck". Checked the actual light, and sure enough... first use, brake light would come on and stay on. Your video saved me a trip to the shop, since (combined with another KZbin video), I was able to disassemble the switch housing and clean out the brake switch with air, contact cleaner and a little WD-40 silicone. Works like a champ now. Thanks for saving me $$$.

[@user-qs8lv7wp2c]

I know it's been 5 years but I just watched your video and dude that helped me out a lot thank you

[@8153max]

having fan mail shows me how much respect you have for doing what you do...that's great IMHO

[@JonHeckendorf]

You are turning out to be my savior when fixing my, purchased new, 2010 Fatboy Lo. So, thanks for posting. Something caught my ear around @6:34 when you said that an out of towner came in and you are giving that bike priority to get it back on the road. I have heard that dealers are suppose to give priority to bikes passing through. What is Harley's official position on servicing out of town bikes? Several years ago, I stopped at Outpost Harley in Pueblo, Colorado (real assholes by the way) to have a few easy issues fixed before I could continue on to Sturgis. They told me, I had to wait for their mechanics to finish the bikes ahead of me before getting to my bike. I did mention that I am not from there and I had to get to Sturgis. They told me too bad and I had to wait my turn or take it someplace else. I took it to an independent shop and they fixed my bike right then and there. I can remember many times when my bikes were at various dealers over the years and I had to wait for out of town bikes to be fixed. What say you or anyone else about this matter?

[@TheHarleyTech]

In school we learned (MoCo suggested curriculum) that priority is 1. Travelers 2. Warranty/recalls 3. Appointments 4. Walk ins. I swear there was 5 of them. Damn, it’s been awhile. Either way, travelers do get priority, but not to the point I’m going to roll a bike off my bench to do it. Just that I’ll get to it ASAP. Obviously it’s going to be in a timely manner, though.

[@JonHeckendorf]

Thanks for replying. I hope I was not suggesting that a bike being worked on to be pulled off the bench to get to my bike. It was to be 3 to 5 days before they would even look at it. I was from out of town and under warranty. I was hoping they would get me in between bikes for about 3 hours at the most but no, not Outpost Harley on US25 in Pueblo, Colorado. They were jerks about it too. Just a half an hour North of Pueblo is Colorado Springs where two excellent Harley dealers are located. Pikes Peak and Colorado Springs Harley. I have been to both during my travels up and down the 25. When riding past Outpost, I do give them the one finger salute, two to six times a year.

[@DozerCFFC]

Dude I love you haha I'm at work so I can't watch the whole video but I'll be back to watch it later. I'm waiting for my regulator to get here Friday because I tested the battery and stator, they were good but the reg tested bad. So when I get it back togther I'll be checking the codes and making sure I didn't miss anything else. Thanks for your help brotha man!

[@kenh9097]

I just got home after putting 200 Mile's on the new Road glide.., and what is waiting for me.., another tech video from John!! Thanks again man I love the topics!!

[@TheHarleyTech]

Thanks Ken! Glad you got to ride today, too!

[@TheSinglezr2]

I agree with the general consensus John. Drop in the fan mail comments a little at a time as opposed to a whole video dedicated to it. I dig your videos a lot. I recently rejoined the Harley family and appreciate the information in your videos. Keep up the awesome work Bro...

[@808sutube]

Thanks for the video. I followed the steps in your video because my check engine light on my 2000 ultra came on. All modules indicated "CLR" but the check engine light will not turn off while the engine is running. Also, neither my speedometer or tach did the sweep test. The needles just wiggled a little but did not really move at all. Any ideas and/or suggestions on things I could check next? Thanks again for the video.

[@gnridn]

While riding in the mountains in Colorado, my check engine light came on. Thanks to your video, I was able to check and see it was the o2 sensor. Thanks for taking the time to upload all these videos.

[@donnapatton3481]

Thanks to You I could check my codes all good , Still haven't found the problem. Just bought a 2011 Heritage softail deluxe took it out for the first time when I hit 6th gear it shut off and wont start back up. Should I check the fuel pump next plugs look fine and on a tender . Thanks

[@iancampbell6191]

I like it. The trickle method seems very good without being to redundant for those who may not be that interested...... plus then we still get the meat and potatoes from the “Learning Video”. Keep up the good work !

[@bobbyruth8201]

I think it’s cool of you to recognize the fans who send you mail and items. Class act. Keep those cards and letters coming. Oh yeah and the videos are fun to watch as well. Thanks again

[@mauriceordonez4566]

Awesome ... best always to take to dealer if ele trical....and even if we figure out and clear the code. I would always have dealer run diagnostics after... u make it look too easy... thanks

[@mlgeorge1978]

Awesome 👌 You made that simple. Now if I can find out why it's backfiring at startup with no codes?

[@FreedomRider223]

hi John Maxwell, I recently put apes on my 2010 Road King (FLHP) to begin with I believe some of the wiring may have been changed because it was a police bike but with the stock bars everything was working. Then I extended the wires, took pictures of how the connectors came apart to make sure I got the right colors back in the right slots. I got everything back together the left side was working fine but the right hand controls eg the run and ignition switches did not work. So I pulled the wires back out to make sure that the connections were good and they each showed continuity so I'm pretty sure that the wires and the switches work. So now we are down to the plug. I made sure that the colors lined up with the colors on the female part which was from the main harness which I did not tamper with. You think it would be pretty simple just line up the same colors the way they were, and it should work. I've tried all kinds of different combinations but I can't seem to get the run in the ignition switches to work. I checked all the fuses they seem to be in good shape I sprayed the entire fuse box with electrical connector stuff to make sure they are all getting good connections and of course the battery cables are tight. I know the starter works because if I hotwire it, take power from one of the holes in the female connector into the hole that affects the starter, I can get the starter to click, so this tells me that the connection is okay there and that the fuse for the starter is okay as well. So now I'm thinking maybe after taking it apart maybe there was some kind of computer glitch that is putting it into a lock motor something? Is there anything from the computer side of it that might lock the bike? There is no security system that I know of besides from a fork lock. What do you think?

[@stephenwarren9021]

Thanks for this vid Mr Maxwell, never had a check engine light on my 17 street glide, figured I'd see if my bike has any codes after seeing this, turns out my oil pressure sensor was bad and I went to dealer and they replaced under warranty, love all your vids man!

[@zacharydunn5847]

I will be getting my first Harley in July only because I am saving money to pay in full and I love watching the vids and I will taking some long trips south soon and may stop by and say hi thanks for the vids

[@wickedfifth]

I feel like I was the last one to leave you props! Great video!

[@davidthomas2719]

Your new videos on Wednesdays is the 2nd best thing I look forward to. 2nd only to 10% off beer at my liquor store. My two favorite Wednesday thangs!

[@TheHarleyTech]

That's fair. I mean, I take me to 2nd place over 10% off beer. haha

[@bdt8895]

just found this since I had the check engine light come on on my 2006 EG Classic. I noticed when I went through the process my tach needle didn't move, what does that mean exactly? The tach seems to work when riding. by the way this was a barn find bike so I'm still running into things to repair. Thanks for the time to make these videos, very helpful!

[@omestredd3]

I have an 04 police road king... didn’t know you could read trouble codes on those... nice one! 👍🏼

[@sanluisace]

Thanks for this video!!! This helped me today got my 19 iron died on transport and got 5 (p0562,p2300,p2303,b2271, & u0121 codes about low voltage One question am I good to clear them since my battery is charged up bike runs great and all functions normally.

[@TheHarleyTech]

Yea. Clear them. Make sure none come back

[@sanluisace]

None came back thanks again!!! Keep the videos flowing

[@1735mike]

Hey bud , thanks for the vids. I just got a 2018 street glide . Started it up today and check engine light is on. Only has , 800 miles. Appreciate your help. Thanks.

[@TheHarleyTech]

Once the engine was running the engine light stayed on?

[@johnford3761]

Can you suggest a best way to determine if fuel pump is bad?

[@jimmywang1722]

This is great information with the Harley dealers in Seattle none of them workon 2004 or later

[@michaelvivirito1224]

Thanks John this is a big help. I am troubleshooting my wife's Heritage Softail and you make me look good bro!

[@stephensupplee4586]

Hey bro any idea on why on my street glide my dash lights and head unit go out and it idles around 2000 rpm then when I turn off it goes back to normal working order then has problem again when I ride, any ideas bud I appreciate it

[@mrbigt2307]

Hello I have a 2018 ultra limited it's still stock but I Do have cobra slipons and it's running rich. I just changed the plugs becouse the originals where dark any suggestions or advice to help fix the problem.

[@punkinsgarageandpaint8299]

Good to go over your fan mail. Do a a few in each video at the end

[@leelucas2935]

I Love this stuff!! Just not many videos on the sport glide yet! Just finished wiring in some Custom Dynamics Pro Beam led tail lights on my sport glide!! Tons Better than the stock led tail lights!

[@Backyardsniper73]

I need to replace my speed sensor on a 02 Electra Glide. Where is the connector end located?

[@congccao5419]

Hi John! Quick question. My 2018 Roadster's speedo is starting to jump numbers, there is a lag when the speed is changing. What shold I do?

[@travispage7719]

Thanks for he Video, Question completely off topic tho. How do you tell the correct height for a windshield?

[@Richard5873]

I have P0120 coming up , hit clear but it didn't clear it. It said clear but didn't clear it. I just installed the Thunder-Max, but not sure if it will reset codes.

[@BradMcCarty]

Hey John - Can you talk about aftermarket suspension stuff sometime? I recently did 12" Progressive rears and heavy duty front springs. It made some huge differences in how the bike handles (and I'm still trying to solve a problem). It would be interesting to get your perspective on suspension changes, what they mean for how the bike behaves, and any other thoughts you might have.

[@Jeremiahparis]

do you have any idea if you can check Buell ECM's for codes using the same method? i will try tomorrow, but its 3 in the morning so i thought i'd ask?

[@bfontes]

Awesome stuff man! Just got into riding harley about a year ago and really like your content. Fan mail isn't a bad idea. Helps people out with some exposure and you more free stuff.... win win 👍👍

[@gusthebusandthe3ofus475]

Thanks. My front brake lever was stuck. It was from sitting all winter.

[@felixmasis3658]

John. I have a 2014 ultra limited and I notice that when the engine is cold on first start engine feel smooth at idle. and like 5 to 10 min later engine feels rough at idle what do you think?

[@redbeardrider2732]

I'd like to see both... every few episodes you can open 1 or 3. Then maybe once a month do a full episode!

[@michaelwilliams2232]

Thanks For The Info ! Need to Check codes on My Softail Deuce !!

[@cardadbods2007]

Hey John I really like this video, i have an older 1999 dyna Wide Glide that give me a different type of trouble code readings? Would you have any additional information on this? When I hold the trip, run switch on, and turn the ignition switch on, I click through a menu of 1 through 10 and after that is States CLE or SET what do these codes mean and is this even the real way to check codes on a 99 model?

[@sammoore1401]

Another fun and very informative video. And to take the time to show the way to do it on so many bikes....wtg! Thanks for all the hard work

[@MSW-66]

Great videos John. So I have the C1032 code on my 2009 Ultra and solid light. I can make go away for a minute by moving the wire in question. Is the fix simply soldering the wire or is there additional changes so it won't happen again?

[@jerrymulcahy4254]

Enjoy your videos. Quick question. Why all of a sudden would I get a No Fob msg on my odometer after starting and pulling away then it disappears and doesn’t come back on that day. New battery in fob and 6 month old battery in bike. It’s a 2015 RGS and has happened the last two times I’ve ridden it. Fob is in right hand side glove box where it’s always been. Would one of those beaded seat covers have anything to do with it since I just recently put one on my bike? Thanks

[@henrymendoza2697]

morning from San Diego california. HOG doing I DO HAVE A 2005 ROAD KING W/ A CODE P1356 CAN YOU GIVE ME A IDEA WHERE CAN I STAR TO FIGEOUT WHERE THE PROBLEM FROM GRACIAS GRET EXPLANATION ON YOU TUTORIALS

[@johnford3761]

What could be the problem if my instrument needles don’t sweep? Great video.

[@wormand08]

I needed this video 3 weeks ago lol. But awesome video like always. Keep it up.

[@TheHarleyTech]

Yea...sorry 'bout that

[@RickParkerGoogle]

Really enjoyed your video man! Very helpful and fun to watch. I'm right up the road from y'all in Douglasville, GA.

[@dbastardo1]

This one is an old video but it helped. Thanks John. Subscribed!

[@joewyman2235]

John maxwell another entertaining and informative video and I see you got 38K subscribers keep up the great work I hope you proud you should be we all enjoy your work

[@florenciocisneros487]

Hi I’m having abs front brake the light is off but brake lever is hard to pull

[@rerun-hunter3562]

I have a 2012 ultra classic 103 how do I know if it has a security system in it no fobs came with it & it has no ABS BRAKES

[@vincemelone7305]

working on a 2011 super glide custom. I changed the whole fuel system on it. do I need to clear the codes so it will run?

[@hdsunride]

Great video bro, as a matter of fact I like them all! Haven't watched all your videos but I did have an off topic very general question and I realize your not my doctor, but do you have any suggestions as to fix my hands falling asleep/wrist pain. I have a 09 fxdb with 12" rsd bars....

[@beardedkountry]

this just helped me A LOT!!! apparently I have 7/b codes and 1/u code in the bcm. does anyone know where I can go to look them up to find out what they are. would like to know what to expect before going to the dealer if I have to go there. thanks in advance. and keep the videos coming, I watch them everyday at work during lunch.

[@beardedkountry]

never mind did some google-ling, and found the codes on this sight. dgcustomcycle.com/tech/harley-diagnostic-codes-04-present/

[@TheHarleyTech]

Good find!

[@cademullins8128]

if my check engine light is not on, is there any reason to check the codes. should I be doing this at random intervals between services?

[@Doul3le_T]

Just took my 17 fxdls in for it's 1k service. Runs sooooo smooth now. Any source for 17 dyna service manuals or just online? My warranty is up next April, and I plan on doing the rest of the service myself. Thanks for the badass content John, I check every night for your stuff, and I have Wednesdays off, so I'm always stoked to watch your stuff and smash the like button :)

[@TheHarleyTech]

Thanks man! The factory service manuals are available only at dealerships. like you have to buy it from them. There are aftermarket ones, but they're hit or miss on accuracy, so, there's that...

[@DjahAlanBinSueKu]

I cleaned up the code. Running a scan tool will retrieve the error again?

[@ahill7099]

I have 01 electriglide. Bought it used we jumped it and it started while idling shut down and now start switch does nothing.. changed relay did nothing. Changed fob battery nothing. I can push relay and does run fine. I have all electrical horn lights etc. Totally lost. Any help would be great.

[@dcrich19]

I have a 2003 fltri and the gauges will not sweep. What should I be checking?

[@harleyhunter68]

what do you think the problem is if it won’t sweep and give codes but it did before? i have a 2012 wg thanks

[@TheHarleyTech]

The run switch is usually not in the run position when it’s doing that.

[@robertlumsden942]

like dustin said below how do you do this on the 2018 models. great video

[@franksbmary]

need help, I have a 2003 road king cvo flhrse12 and I am trying to read the codes but all I get is diag 1 through ten shows clear on all but still check engine light still on ,speedo goes to diag but does not sweep as shown, I change intake gaskets and all sensors and idle starts at 1050 then goes to 1800 to 2000 when warm, I redid intake seals 4 times thinking leak but still can't ride, any ideas can't afford Harley visit,

[@douglasstewart8240]

Thanks brother. Had a flickering engine light turned out to be a loose battery connection like you said.

[@waynecasey6375]

Hey John, sure...show some fan mail, its cool. Besides you deserve it so show some of it off!! Keep 'em coming dude!!

[@porkchop7268]

Sooooo if my gauges don’t do the sweep test what does that mean?

[@themaswholesauto6334]

Will this work on 08 street glide?

[@tylerfj24]

John, I have an FP3 on my bike. It has a tab for maintanence codes. I always just check that for new codes.. would the bike codes you just talked about show up on the FP3? Or do you know? I was always under the impression any codes that came up anywhere would show on the fuelpak and we could diagnose them that way..

[@TheHarleyTech]

The FP3 does show the same codes. This is more for those that don’t have access to such a nice thing like the FP3

[@richardhartley7094]

Great video as usual really enjoy watching them. Love your open roads you have over there cool

[@kenwilliams2271]

Great video again thanks

[@exile730]

you are on fire, John Maxwell - great job as ever!

[@Dr.J_theCPA]

I have a 2018Fat Boy, have you done a video on replacing the Grips?

[@TheHarleyTech]

nah, I hit some tips during the road king special handlebar video, but it's quick and it's a long video, so...

[@scottwilloughby3840]

wow how cool thanks as always great video now i can randomly check between services very very cool

[@rruiz311]

My 2014 fxdwg is showing ecm y and bcm y and also abs y.

[@dustinweist1605]

How do you do this with the new 2018 models since when you turn the off/run switch to run it automatically turns the ignition?

[@TheHarleyTech]

Hold the trip button first. Then switch the run switch. I didn’t want to confuse folks, I’ll show it next week, too.

[@dustinweist1605]

Cool. Thanks, John. Appreciate the reply and info.

[@jonathandyarmettjr.1984]

John Maxwell what ended up being the cause of that U1040? I’ve got that same code on my dads Road Glide Ultra

[@TheHarleyTech]

Beats me. I clear u codes and see if they return. This one didn’t. Low battery can often cause the U codes, so they appear, but don’t return most times.

[@rsbharley4766]

Good video John, I think trickle the fan mail in is better. Cheers

[@grumpy19754]

First time to watch one of your videos. Loved it. Will be watching more. Thanks and ride safe.

[@drilloff]

Thank you I didn't know how to go through the codes

[@nevillegreg1]

Trickle in the fan mail, if it's not actually a motorcycle accessory or something truely cool (not some T-shirt or cap) , perhaps put it in at the end so those not interested can simply tune out. If the volume builds up to the point where you can't reasonably fit all of it in without the vid being way too long, then occasionally do a separate vid on fan mail. Thks.

[@joshjohnson6720]

new to your videos just subscribed been working on bike's for pretty much my whole life just old stuff 75 ironhead 87 evo sporty ect.. I've go a 03 100th sporty now it does the sweep thing does it have "codes" and how do would you check them if so I was under the impression that the only computer..ish part of the whole bike was electronic ignition box but not sure put a volt gauge off a touring bike on it wired through a standard hella relay and the thing just started bouncing between like a mad man between 14 and 16 volt at high rpm (3500) and up working fine otherwise reading 12- 12.5 key on not running 13ish at idle and steady 14 when put..puting through town but when you twist it it starts jumping 14 to16 was thinking regulator but charges fine no other issues that y I asked about codes might tell me something thanks man

[@murphy6141]

HI is There any codes for the stock H/D CD or am/fm radio since the display all work fine just no sound whatsoever I have 2005 Road Glide FLTRI it just stop working i was playing a CD on accessory the motor was not running when I was done I turned the off the ignition next day no sound the display works fine Thank you

[@tylerfj24]

I would only drop in the fan mail that is cool, fun, funny, or relevant to the show that week..

[@georgewhite2469]

thanx cat. keep twistin,safe runz

[@shaner2037]

Great video! If you give John's videos a thumbs down, well it's just.........rude.

[@rodneyhanbaum697]

Thanks man,just changed my bars on my 2018 road glide my check engine light came on.

[@lorenzobolling1056]

I jumped my 09 road king off and my speedometer and my signal lights stop working. Looking for solution. Help me please

[@michaelmitchell5909]

Love your videos john!.... However you decide to do the fan mail will be cool, you always have a cool arrangement of Harley content in your vids man.... Keep it up bro, definitely my favorite channel!.....

[@nickhildabridle1612]

John. Another great video. I always learn from you. I have a 2004 CPR that has no turnsignals wires and an 05 CPR that b lows fuses for the Speedo. Still trying to figure out what causes that. LTMV & Until Next time...

[@badkarmabiker3539]

I have a 2000 wide glide the engine light comes on randomly my speedometer doesn't sweep when checking has no codes Harley found nothing wrong what is your assessment

[@nicholashanson7439]

John you never let me down on these videos. Thanks for your help man!

[@roadtaco3924]

Love the channel. appreciate all the help. 👌🏾👌🏾👍🏾 loose cables. cleared codes. running back great. Thank you.

[@davidsullivan6201]

Well Johnny. That was clear as mud. I think after watching it twice, my 2012 FLTRU wont flash me.....right?

[@hd114ul7]

Really wish that you would start making videos again.

[@glpromozar2986]

Nice john your explanation verry detail....

[@mudboysjeeps92]

Very helpful thanks allot

[@chevyon37s]

Could have used this vid a few weeks ago when people were asking about reading codes on HDforum and thought they had to have a computer hooked up to do it.

[@cvbluegrasspatriot9157]

Great video!

[@Ibis117]

My '14 Limited lit its engine light a couple of years ago in France, and went into "limp" mode. Got recovered to a dealership, and it came up as "none" despite the light still being on. Got it transported back to the UK and my home dealer put a new battery in, and it ran fine, no light, no codes. 1000 miles later, same problem. Got recovered - no code. Dealer could find nothing wrong, and it ran fine, then the day before they were going to hand it back, it lit up the engine lamp, and they finally got a live code. ECM failure. Seems it failed so bad, it wouldn't remember what was wrong with it. 5000 miles later, all still good. :-)

[@Klaw318]

I’ve been wondering about this for a while. Thanks for the video!!