Harley-Davidson has announced a recall affecting nine different models across its Softail, Trike, and Touring lines. According to a report by Dennis Chung at Motorcycle.com, the recall addresses a potential issue with blocked airbox breathing ports that could lead to pressure buildup and oil expulsion.
The recall encompasses a total of 88,039 motorcycles and three-wheelers, though Harley-Davidson estimates that only a small percentage (0.4%) may actually have the defect. The following models are included in the recall:
- 2025-2026 Breakout (2,618 units)
- 2025-2026 Fat Boy (1,992 units)
- 2026 Road Glide Limited (1,067 units)
- 2024-2026 Road Glide (47,241 units)
- 2026 Road Glide 3 (629 units)
- 2024-2026 Street Glide (28,612 units)
- 2025 Street Glide Ultra (3,570 units)
- 2026 Street Glide Limited (1,048 units)
- 2026 Street Glide 3 Limited (1,262 units)
Notably, all affected models utilize Milwaukee-Eight engines with a shared airbox design. Models like the Heritage Classic and Street Bob, which use a circular airbox, and higher-performance M-8 models like the Low Rider S, Low Rider ST, and CVO models, which employ different airboxes, are not included in this recall, according to Motorcycle.com.
The recall documentation indicates that the airbox baseplates on the affected models may have a thin layer of plastic obstructing the breather port. This obstruction can cause pressure to accumulate within the crankcase. If the dipstick is removed under these conditions, the built-up pressure could force oil out of the fill spout, creating a potential hazard.
Harley-Davidson advises owners to be aware of several warning signs, including:
- Smoke emitting from the exhaust
- Excessive oil consumption
- A detached breather hose
- An audible release of pressure upon dipstick removal
According to Motorcycle.com, Harley-Davidson initiated an investigation into blocked airbox baseplates in April 2025. Initially, a quarantine material request (QMR) was implemented, involving visual inspections of airboxes using a flashlight. However, this method proved inadequate for identifying all affected airboxes. In February 2026, investigators discovered that the blockage was caused by a thin layer of plastic, which was not detectable using the flashlight test. Subsequently, Harley-Davidson implemented a new test using a tool to physically inspect the breather ports.
The situation escalated on March 18, 2026, when a dealer reported a technician injury. This prompted Harley-Davidson to broaden its evaluation. The company identified 192 warranty and customer reports of blocked breather ports, with 14 incidents involving oil expulsion. Inspections at the York, PA factory revealed three vehicles with blocked breather passages out of 207 examined. Additionally, a Harley-Davidson Product Development Center mechanic experienced oil splash while removing a dipstick during motorcycle testing. Harley-Davidson initiated voluntary recall actions on April 27, according to the report.
Harley-Davidson dealers will inspect the recalled models and remove any breather port blockages. Owners can expect to receive notification letters between May 5 and May 20, as reported by Motorcycle.com.
