Recalls

Harley-Davidson joins GM, FCA in ignition-switch recall

We've seen a rash of ignition switch recalls this year, especially from General Motors, but also from Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. Harley-Davidson is joining their ranks with a new repair campaign on some of its bikes, but for a somewhat different reason: some examples of one model might be vibrating too much.

According to Harley's recall filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the problem affects 3,361 units of the 2014.5 FXDL Dyna Low Rider built from January 6, 2014, through June 19, 2014. The report states that "certain optional performance electronic control module calibrations" may cause enough engine vibrations to move the ignition switch from the "IGN" on position to the "ACC" position where only the accessories work. This movement would shut off the engine.

The full defect notice goes into more detail explaining that the engine mount bracket on these models has a resonant frequency that happens around 5,800 rpm. At this point, it begins vibrating the ignition switch and can cause it to change position. The stock bikes only allow engine speeds up to 5,600 rpm, according to the report, but the company offers an option to increase the limit further.

To fix the problem, Harley is replacing the "engine mount bracket assembly and ignition switch knob," on all models, even those that still have the 5,600-rpm limiter in place, according to the notice. Scroll down to read the recall announcement or check out the full defect notice in PDF format, here.
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Ignition Switch may Turn Off

Report Receipt Date: JUL 08, 2014
NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V413000

Component(s):
Potential Number of Units Affected: 3,361
All Products Associated with this Recall
Vehicle Make Model Model Year(s)
H-D FXDL 2014
Details

Manufacturer: Harley-Davidson Motor Company

SUMMARY:
Harley-Davidson Motor Company (Harley-Davidson) is recalling certain model year 2014.5 FXDL Dyna Low Rider motorcycles manufactured January 6, 2014, through June 19, 2014. In the affected motorcycles, certain optional performance electronic control module calibrations may allow higher engine rpms that could result in engine vibrations that cause the ignition switch to move from the "IGN" (ignition on) to "ACC" (accessory only) position, which will shut the engine off.

CONSEQUENCE:
If the vibration causes the ignition switch to move to the accessory only position, the motorcycle would stall while riding, increasing the risk of a crash.

REMEDY:
Harley-Davidson will notify owners, and dealers will replace the engine mount bracket assembly and ignition switch knob, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin by the end of July 2014. Owners may contact Harley-Davidson customer service at 1-800-258-2464.

NOTES:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

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