Harley Code 81329: What It Means and How to Fix It

If you own a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, you may have encountered a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) 81329. This code is related to the faceplate preset button on your motorcycle’s radio. When the button gets stuck, it can trigger this DTC, which will cause the check engine light to come on.

To diagnose and fix this issue, you may need to take your motorcycle to a Harley-Davidson dealership or a qualified mechanic. They will use a diagnostic tool to read the DTC and determine the exact cause of the problem. Depending on the severity of the issue, they may need to replace the radio or perform other repairs.

It’s important to address this issue promptly, as leaving it unresolved can lead to other problems with your motorcycle’s electrical system. If you notice the check engine light on and suspect that DTC 81329 is the cause, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.

Understanding Harley Diagnostic Codes

If you own a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, it’s important to understand how to read and interpret diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). These codes can help you identify issues with your bike’s electronic systems and pinpoint the source of the problem. In this section, we’ll cover the basics of DTCs and how to differentiate between historic and current trouble codes.

DTC and Code Basics

A DTC is a code that is stored in your bike’s electronic control module (ECM) when a fault is detected in one of the bike’s systems. Each DTC is made up of five characters, with the first character always being a letter. The first character indicates the system that the code pertains to. For example, a P code relates to the ECM, while a B code relates to the radio or instrument cluster.

The second character of the DTC indicates the type of fault that has been detected. For example, a 1 indicates a fuel system fault, while a 3 indicates an ignition system fault. The remaining three characters provide more specific information about the fault that has been detected.

Historic vs. Current Trouble Codes

When your bike’s ECM detects a fault, it will store the corresponding DTC in its memory. If the fault is still present when you read the codes, the DTC will be considered a current trouble code. If the fault has been resolved, the DTC will be considered a historic trouble code.

Reading both current and historic trouble codes can be useful in diagnosing issues with your bike. Current trouble codes can help you identify issues that are currently affecting your bike’s performance, while historic trouble codes can help you identify issues that may have been resolved but could still be causing problems.

In conclusion, understanding Harley diagnostic codes is an important part of maintaining your bike’s performance. By familiarizing yourself with the basics of DTCs and knowing how to differentiate between historic and current trouble codes, you can diagnose issues with your bike’s electronic systems and keep it running smoothly.

Electrical System Overview

When it comes to your Harley’s electrical system, there are several key components that work together to keep your bike running smoothly. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the battery and ignition, as well as the module and ECM functionality.

Battery and Ignition

The battery is the heart of your Harley’s electrical system. It provides the power necessary to start the engine and keep it running. A healthy battery should read above 12.2 volts. If your battery reads low, try slow charging it for 12 hours and re-test.

The ignition system is responsible for creating the sparks that ignite the fuel in the engine. It works in conjunction with the battery and other electrical components to keep the engine running. If you’re experiencing issues with your ignition system, it’s important to have it checked by a professional.

Module and ECM Functionality

The module and ECM (Engine Control Module) are responsible for controlling the various systems in your Harley, including the fuel injection, ignition, and emissions. They work together to ensure that your bike is running at peak performance.

If you’re experiencing issues with your module or ECM, it’s important to have them checked by a professional. These components are critical to the proper functioning of your bike’s electrical system, and any problems can lead to serious issues down the road.

In summary, the battery and ignition, as well as the module and ECM functionality, are crucial components of your Harley’s electrical system. By keeping these components in good working order, you can ensure that your bike is running at its best.

Body Control Module (BCM) Issues

If you are experiencing issues with your Harley Davidson, the Body Control Module (BCM) could be the culprit. The BCM is responsible for controlling various electrical systems, such as lighting, turn signals, and ignition. However, like any other electrical component, it is prone to issues that can affect its performance. In this section, we will discuss some common BCM issues you may encounter.

BCM Faults and LHCM Internal Error

One of the most common issues with the BCM is faults and LHCM internal error. This could be caused by a variety of factors, including a damaged BCM or LHCM, a faulty wiring harness, or a malfunctioning security system. If you are experiencing this issue, you may notice that your Harley Davidson is not starting or is running poorly. To diagnose this issue, you will need to use diagnostic tools to access the onboard diagnostics and confirm diagnostic trouble codes (DTC’s) stored under the BCM. Once you have identified the issue, you can replace the faulty component or repair the wiring harness.

Security System Malfunctions

Another common issue with the BCM is security system malfunctions. This could be caused by a faulty security antenna output open, which is responsible for detecting the presence of the key fob. If this component is damaged or malfunctioning, the security system may not recognize the key fob, preventing you from starting your Harley Davidson. To diagnose this issue, you will need to check the wiring harness and replace any damaged components. You may also need to reprogram the security system to recognize the new component.

In conclusion, the BCM is a crucial component of your Harley Davidson’s electrical system, and it is prone to issues that can affect its performance. If you are experiencing any issues with your Harley Davidson, it is important to diagnose the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage. By using diagnostic tools and following the steps outlined in this section, you can identify and repair any issues with your BCM, ensuring that your Harley Davidson runs smoothly and reliably.

ABS System Faults

If you are experiencing issues with your Harley Davidson ABS system, it can be frustrating and potentially dangerous. Code 81329 indicates an ABS ECU relay error. This could be caused by a variety of issues, including ABS voltage low or high, or issues with the wheel speed sensors.

ABS Voltage and ECU Errors

If you are experiencing ABS voltage low or high, this could cause issues with your ABS system. In some cases, this could lead to an ABS ECU relay error, which is indicated by code 81329. It is important to check your battery and charging system to ensure that they are functioning properly. If you have any doubts, it is best to have a professional mechanic check your system.

Wheel Speed Sensor Issues

In some cases, issues with the wheel speed sensors can cause ABS faults. If the front or rear wheel speed sensors are always reading zero, this could indicate a faulty sensor or wiring issue. It is important to check the sensors and wiring to ensure that they are functioning properly. In some cases, cleaning the sensors and connectors can help resolve the issue.

Overall, it is important to address any ABS faults as soon as possible to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road. If you are unable to diagnose and repair the issue yourself, it is best to seek the help of a professional mechanic.

Radio and Hand Control Errors

If you are experiencing issues with your Harley-Davidson’s radio and hand controls, it could be due to a variety of errors. In this section, we will discuss some of the most common issues related to radio and hand controls and how to troubleshoot them.

Radio Voltage and Control Malfunctions

One of the most common radio-related errors is a voltage issue. If you are getting a code like B1300 or B1301, it means that there is either too much or too little voltage going to the radio. This can be caused by a faulty voltage regulator, a bad battery, or a wiring issue.

To troubleshoot this error, you should first check the battery voltage with a multimeter. If the voltage is low, you may need to replace the battery. If the voltage is high, you should check the voltage regulator and wiring to make sure they are functioning properly.

Rear Hand Controls and Button Issues

Another common error related to radio and hand controls is a rear hand controls issue. If you are getting a code like “rear hand controls shorted high” or “rear hand controls shorted low,” it means that there is a problem with the wiring or switches in the rear hand controls.

To troubleshoot this error, you should first check the wiring and switches in the rear hand controls. Make sure that all of the connections are secure and that there is no damage to the wiring. If everything looks good, you may need to replace the switches or wiring to fix the issue.

In conclusion, radio and hand control errors can be frustrating, but they are usually easy to troubleshoot and fix. By following the steps outlined above, you should be able to identify and fix any issues with your Harley-Davidson’s radio and hand controls.

Fuel System Diagnostics

If your Harley is experiencing issues related to the fuel system, then it’s important to run a diagnostic test to pinpoint the cause of the problem. Harley code 81329 is one of the codes that can indicate a fuel system issue.

Fuel Level Sender Faults

One of the possible causes of Harley code 81329 is a fuel level sender fault. This could be due to a shorted low/open or shorted high fuel level sender. The fuel level sender is responsible for sending the fuel level information to the fuel gauge on your Harley. If it’s not working properly, then you may experience issues with fuel delivery or fuel gauge readings.

To diagnose this issue, you can use a multimeter to test the resistance of the fuel level sender. If the resistance is out of range, then it may be time to replace the fuel level sender.

MAP and CKP Sensor Errors

Another possible cause of Harley code 81329 is MAP and CKP sensor errors. MAP stands for Manifold Absolute Pressure, while CKP stands for Crankshaft Position. These sensors are responsible for providing information about the engine’s performance to the ECU. If they’re not working properly, then you may experience issues with fuel delivery or engine performance.

To diagnose this issue, you can use a diagnostic tool to read the codes and check the sensor readings. If the sensor readings are out of range, then it may be time to replace the sensor.

In conclusion, Harley code 81329 can indicate a fuel system issue related to the fuel level sender or MAP and CKP sensors. By running a diagnostic test, you can pinpoint the exact cause of the problem and take the necessary steps to fix it.

Troubleshooting ABS Solenoid Circuits

If you are experiencing issues with your Harley Davidson ABS system, it is essential to troubleshoot the solenoid circuits. Solenoids are essential components of the ABS system, and they play a crucial role in regulating the hydraulic pressure in the brake system.

Front Solenoid Circuit Issues

One of the common issues with the ABS solenoid circuits is the ABS front apply solenoid circuit open/high resistance. This issue can occur due to a faulty solenoid or a damaged wiring harness. When this issue occurs, the ABS light on your dashboard will illuminate, and you may experience a loss of braking power.

To troubleshoot this issue, you can use a multimeter to check the resistance of the solenoid. The resistance should be within the manufacturer’s specifications. You can also check the wiring harness for any damage or corrosion, which can cause an open circuit. If you find any damage, you should replace the wiring harness.

Rear Solenoid Circuit Problems

Another common issue with the ABS solenoid circuits is the ABS rear apply solenoid circuit open/high resistance. This issue can also occur due to a faulty solenoid or a damaged wiring harness. When this issue occurs, the ABS light on your dashboard will illuminate, and you may experience a loss of braking power.

In conclusion, troubleshooting the ABS solenoid circuits is essential to ensure the proper functioning of your Harley Davidson ABS system. By following the steps outlined above, you can diagnose and fix any issues with the solenoid circuits.

Advanced Communication Errors

If you’re experiencing trouble with your Harley Davidson, one of the most common issues is communication errors. These errors are typically caused by problems with the bike’s electronic control module (ECM) or other electronic components. One specific error code that you may encounter is code 81329. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at advanced communication errors, including U-codes and network faults, and VIN communication problems.

U-Codes and Network Faults

U-codes are a type of diagnostic trouble code that are related to network faults. In particular, these codes are related to communication problems between different modules in your Harley Davidson. Some common U-codes that you may encounter include U0140 and U0142. These codes indicate that there is a problem with the communication network in your bike.

If you encounter a U-code, it’s important to take your bike to a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. These codes can be difficult to diagnose and repair, and they may require specialized equipment to fix.

VIN Communication Problems

Another common cause of communication errors in Harley Davidsons is VIN communication problems. Your bike’s VIN (vehicle identification number) is a unique identifier that is used by the ECM and other electronic components to communicate with each other. If there is a problem with the VIN, you may encounter error codes such as “ABS invalid stored VIN” or “ABS no VIN received from ECM”.

To fix these problems, you may need to replace the ECM or other electronic components. Alternatively, you may be able to reprogram the ECM to correct the VIN problem.

In conclusion, if you’re experiencing advanced communication errors with your Harley Davidson, it’s important to take your bike to a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. These errors can be difficult to diagnose and repair, and they may require specialized equipment to fix.