1997 Harley-Davidson Softail
Only 1 complaint on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 1 complaint on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1995 | 3 |
| 1996 | 3 |
| 1997 | 1 |
| 1998 | 3 |
| 1999 | 0 |
| 2000 | 7 |
| 2001 | 2 |
| 2002 | 4 |
| 2003 | 7 |
| 2004 | 4 |
| 2005 | 4 |
| 2007 | 2 |
| 2008 | 1 |
| 2010 | 1 |
| 2011 | 3 |
| 2012 | 3 |
| 2013 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 1 complaint on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 1 total report mentions: wheels.
Show complaint excerpts
AT 40-45 MPH FRONT TIRE WENT FLAT. RIM HAD SPLIT, CAUSING THE TUBE TO GET PINCHED.
NHTSA ODI report, 20020924
SAFETY TIMELINE
THE EFFECTS OF REFORMULATED GASOLINE ALONG WITH CERTAIN USAGE OF THE FUEL SUPPLY VALVE AFFECTS THE SUPPLY OF GASOLINE TO THE CARBURETOR. THIS CONDITION REQUIRES TWO FACTORS: (1) THE USE OF REFORMULA
Remedy: DEALERS THE REPLACE THE DIAPHRAGM IN THE FUEL VALVE.
Campaign 96V204000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1997 Harley-Davidson Softail — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for wheels issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 96V204000 (fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1997 Harley-Davidson Softail reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1997 Harley-Davidson Softail?
The most-reported component is wheels:rim, accounting for 100% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1997 Harley-Davidson Softail have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.