Four years of these motorcycle models got recalled to fix a potential brake problem

An investigation by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration resulted in the recall of almost 175,000 Harley-Davidson motorcycles from the model years 2008 through 2011.

The problem, according to the NHTSA recall notice: “Deposits may form on components within the brake system if the DOT 4 brake fluid is not replaced for a prolonged period of time beyond the 2-year maintenance schedule specified in the Owner’s Manual.”

When that happens, “these deposits may cause a valve within the ABS Hydraulic Control Unit to stick, reducing braking ability and increasing the risk of a crash.”

The NHTSA began investigating the problem in July 2016 after getting 43 complaints that included three reports of crashes.

The recall officially begins Monday. To remedy the problem, Harley-Davidson dealers will flush the entire brake system with new Platinum Label DOT 4 brake fluid. Owners with questions can call Harley-Davidson at 800-258-2464.

Car or motorcycle owners who wish to report problems can call the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to safercar.gov.

The Harley models covered are:

▪ 2008-2011 Road King; Road King Police; Electra Glide Standard Police; Electra Glide Classic; Electra Glide Ultra Classic; and Street Glide.

▪ 2008 VROD; CVO Road King 4; Night Rod; CVO Ultra Classic 3; and Night Rod Special.

▪ 2008-2010 Road King Classic.

▪ 2008-2009 Road Glide and Electra Glide Standard.

▪ 2009-2010 V-Rod; 2009 CVO Ultra Classic and CVO Road Glide 3.

▪ 2009-2011 Night Rod Special and V-Rod Muscle; 2010 CVO Ultra Classic 5 and CVO Street Glide.

▪ 2010-2011 Electra Glide Ultra Limited and Road Glide Custom; 2011 Road Glide Ultra 103; Street Glide 103; Road King Classic 103; CVO Ultra Classic 6; CVO Road Glide Ultra; Road Glide Custom 103; and CVO Street Glide 2.

Information from the Associated Press supplemented this report.

This story was originally published February 7, 2018 at 2:55 PM with the headline "Four years of these motorcycle models got recalled to fix a potential brake problem."