2002 Harley-Davidson Softail
Only 4 complaints 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 4 complaints 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 4 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 4 total reports mentions: wheels.
Show complaint excerpts
THE SPOKES ARE CORRODING AND TURNING BLACK AFTER ONLY TWO WEEKS OF OWNERSHIP. THE DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. PH (MODEL/STANDARD FXSTI) SCC
NHTSA ODI report, 20030121
1 of 4 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.
1 of 4 total reports mentions: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
THE MOTORCYCLE OVERHEATED EXCESSIVELY, WHICH WAS CAUSED BY THE OIL TANK BEING LOCATED DIRECTLY UNDER SEAT.TS ALSO THE CLUTCH WAS READJUSTED.*JB
NHTSA ODI report, 20021218
1 of 4 total reports mentions: fuel system, gasoline.
1 of 4 total reports mentions: engine and engine cooling.
Show complaint excerpts
THE MOTORCYCLE OVERHEATED EXCESSIVELY, WHICH WAS CAUSED BY THE OIL TANK BEING LOCATED DIRECTLY UNDER SEAT.TS ALSO THE CLUTCH WAS READJUSTED.*JB
NHTSA ODI report, 20021218
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2002 Harley-Davidson Softail — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for wheels issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for vehicle speed control issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (1 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 2002 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 2002 Harley-Davidson Softail?
The most-reported component is wheels, accounting for 25% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2002 Harley-Davidson Softail have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.