As a Harley Davidson rider, you know they are a unique breed of motorcycle. But what happens when your Harley starts throwing error codes?Ā
Harleys can have their fair share of technical issues like any motorcycle. But luckily, most of these issues can be easily diagnosed by reading the error codes displayed on the bike’s instrument panel, known as the speedometer. But for this, you must understand the right meaning of the error codes on the display.
When you know the meaning of these codes, you can quickly diagnose and fix them.Ā Here is a quick rundown of some of the most common error codes. You may see on your Harley indicating some issues like these:
Harley Error Codes: The Meanings, Facts & Solutions
Codes | Meaning |
P1511 | Throttle Grip Sensor |
B1121 | Left Turn Output FaultĀ Ā |
P1510 | EFI Limited Performance Mode |
B2156 | Right Rear Turn Signal Output Open |
U1040 | Loss of ABS Serial Data |
I will focus on these issues in detail below to help you by showing the possible solutions to the errors. I hope these will work better for your favorite Harley Davidson motorbike.
P1511 B1121 P1510 B2156 Harley Codes- Guide
It is one of the commonest error codes you will find in the Harley motorcycles. Luckily, fixing it is also straightforward. You may check the error details on the instruction manual that came up with your motorbike. Also, check if any damaged or deformed components may require professional touch-ups.Ā
What is P1511 Harley Code?
According to the manual, it refers to the issue with Throttle Grip Sensor. Itās a technical error code shown on the speedometerās LCD. Hence, when you see the error code, it may refer to these conditions:
- The check engine light comes on and may go into limp home mode.
- A loose bolt on the proper switch/throttle housing.Ā
- Damages are available in the throttle body wiring plug.
- The ECM is burnt or damaged.Ā
Why Does P1511 Error Code Appear?
Here are possible reasons why the error P1511 is shown:
- When you ride the Harley in an aggressive style.Ā
- When the di-electric grease is washed out near the connection behind the air cleaner.Ā
You must understand that not all Harley models are for aggressive riding. So, this error happens when you try riding a lightweight Harley with higher speed and aggressiveness.Ā
How To Solve The P1511 Code Quickly?
These are the possible ways to solve the p1151 error and make the bike rerun:
- Unplug the connection behind the air cleaner facing the rear. Then, clean it well and replace the existing di-electric grease.Ā
- Tighten the bolt and run the bike throttle up and down to prevent it from sticking. Then, clear all the faults.Ā
- Try to maintain average speed if it is not any emergency. Usually, Harley recommends you ride at 55MPH to 65MPH for the best riding moments.Ā
B1121 Harley Code:
Like the P1511 code, I suggest you check the manual first and find the error code B1121 to know about it. Do not forget to inspect the parts on the bike.Ā
What Is B1121 Harley Code?
According to the manual, Harley may get two types of B1121 codes. B1121(TSM) refers to Left Turn Output Fault, and B1121(HFSM) refers to Left Turn Output Open. These error codes appear on the speedometer. This error occurs when you have a malfunctioning bulb.Ā
These codes are pointing towards
- There is corrosion or wrong contact among the terminals and bulbs.
- Issues with the bulbs.Ā
Why Does B1121 Error Code Appear?
Here are possible reasons why the error B1121 codes are shown:
- When the terminal and bulbs are not connected properly.Ā
- When you switch to LED turn signals accidentally, the error happens.Ā
- When the bulb indicator is not working correctly.Ā
How To Solve The B1121 Code Quickly?
These are possible ways to solve the B1121 errors and swiftly make the bike work again:
- Clean the contacts among the terminals and bulbs and apply a quality electrical contact lubricant.
- Order a Load Equalizer and set it up.Ā
- Install resistors to the bike.
- Buy LEDs with built-in resistors (known as hyper flash).
As this solution suggests, you should use high-quality LED bulbs for motorcycles. It not only solves the eror but also provides you with improved visibility. So, your nighttime and low-light riding experience will be better.Ā
P1510 Harley Code:Ā
This code is responsible for poor electrical connection and damage to the throttle. If your bike has an accident, e P1510 code is likely to appear. P1510 code explanation can be available in the Harley instructions manual. Before going to the manual, you can first check for any partial damage to the bike.Ā
What Is P1510 Harley Code?
According to the manual, the P1510 code refers to an EFI Limited Performance Mode issue. The speedometer will indicate this fault code on its LCD. Usually, this code means to these conditions:
- Damages in the throttle side grip.
- Open or short throttle body harness.
- The poor electrical connection in the throttle body circuit.Ā
Why Does P1510 Code Appear?
Here are possible reasons why the error P1510 is shown:
- When anything is prone to damage the throttle body.Ā
- When any plug is messed up in the throttle by the wire harness.Ā Ā
- When you cut the green plug.
How To Solve The P1510 Code Quickly?
These are the possible ways to solve the P1510 error to make the bike rev again:
- Pull the twist throttle back out and see if anything is damaged. If damaged, repair it.Ā
- Inspect the condition of the connector for the electronic throttle control.
- Try to clean the connector pins with a Q-tip using bike-friendly rubbing alcohol.
- Avoid cutting or modifying the green plug; call the mechanic or dealer for more information.
B2156 Harley Code:
You should check the factory manual first when you get the B2156 error code. Besides, check the whole system to see any visible damage in the parts.Ā
What Is B2156 Harley Code?
According to the manual, you can realize the B2156 code is an issue with the right rear turn signal. You can get this code on the display of the speedometer. However, this code may refer to these conditions:
- The light installed on FLHTK or FLHTCU is damaged or burnt.
- The issue with the Electra Glo LED.Ā
Why Does B2156 Code Appear?
Here are possible reasons why the error B2156 appears:
- When you install a faulty Electra Glo LED light.
- When you use Harley saddlebag lights, the fast dash flash returns, and the problem appears.Ā
How To Solve The B2156 Code Quickly?
These are the possible ways to solve the B2156 error to make the bike rev again:
- Remove old tour-pack and try to avoid any incompatible or poor Electra Glo LED.Ā
- Install tour-pack detachable kit to flash at the right speed.Ā
- Run the wires along the left saddlebag frame, up to the area under the seat.Ā
This error is associated with the wiring and LED incompatibility. So, be careful while working so that you donāt spread the problem further.Ā
U1040 Harley Code:Ā
The error code is linked with the ABS brake fuses. Thus, it can be fatal is not solved timely. You can read about this U1040 error code details in the bike manual. Also, checking the bike for damaged or bent parts can be a good idea to know why the error code is shown.Ā
What Is U1040 Harley Code?
According to the manual, U1040 refers to ABS data error. It is shown on the monitor of the Harley Davidson speedometer. Thus, you should know that when the code appears, these problems may happen:
- Open ABS fuse.
- Open circuits of battery, ground, or serial data.Ā
- Short to ground in the power circuit
- ECU malfunction
Why Does U1040 Code Appear?
These are possible reasons why the error U1040 appears:
- The fuse is damaged in the ABS.
- Faulty Electronic Brake Control Module
- ABS is not healthy enough to work correctly.Ā
How To Solve The U1040 Code Quickly?
These are the possible ways to solve the U1040 error to bring the bike back into better riding condition:Ā
- Check the fuse and change it if damaged.Ā
- Ensure power is transmitting well to the ABS module.Ā
- Inspect if the ground wire of the ABS module is properly grounded.
- Inspect the serial data or CAN Bus wiring to ensure excellent communication between the ABS module and BCM.
- Solve any shortage on the wires.Ā
Since it links with the brakes, you must act fast. Or, it runs the risk of accidents without proper brakes during emergencies.Ā
Read More: Harley Davidson Paint Codes
Conclusion
If you see any of these codes popping up on your Harley’s instrument panel, do not panic! These are all relatively common issues that you can quickly fix. However, if the problem persists, it is always best to take your bike to a qualified mechanic to check it out.
Furthermore, Harley error codes appear when you donāt maintain the motorbike properly. So, it is recommended that you maintain the bike properly. It includes proper fuel maintenance, check for oil and fuel efficiency, etc. When you maintain the motorcycle, the error codes are less likely to appear. So, you will enjoy a greater riding experience.Ā