Harley-Davidson XL Sportster Problems by Year

Source: NHTSA · Updated Jul 13, 2015 · 4 owner complaints analyzed

NHTSA has 4 owner complaints and 0 safety recalls on file for the Harley-Davidson XL Sportster, across 1 model years (2014–2014). The 2014 model year has the most complaints (4). The most reported problem area overall is engine.

Harley-Davidson XL Sportster years to avoid? What the complaint data shows

No XL Sportster model year stands out with more than twice the complaints of a typical year.

Model years with the most complaints

  1. 2014 XL Sportster: 4 complaints, 0 recalls

Complaint counts are not adjusted for how many cars were sold or how long each year has been on the road, so newer and less popular years naturally have fewer complaints. Use them to spot problem patterns, not as a safety ranking.

Most common Harley-Davidson XL Sportster problems (all years)

Problem areaComplaintsModel yearsCrashes
Engine110
Power Train110
Tires110

All Harley-Davidson XL Sportster model years

Model yearComplaintsRecallsCrash ratingTop problemCompared with other years
2014 XL Sportster40—Engine

More from Harley-Davidson: all Harley-Davidson models · Harley-Davidson VIN decoder

Frequently asked questions

Which Harley-Davidson XL Sportster years should you stay away from?

No year stands out at twice the typical count; the most complaints are for 2014 (4). Counts are not adjusted for how many cars were sold, and newer years have had less time to collect complaints.

What is the biggest problem with the Harley-Davidson XL Sportster?

Engine, with 1 complaint across 1 model year.

How many recalls does the Harley-Davidson XL Sportster have?

0 safety recalls across all model years. Each model year page lists its recalls and fixes.