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Harley Code B1321: Understanding and Troubleshooting Tips

Chase Manhattan Avatar

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If you own a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, you may have encountered the B1321 error code. This code indicates that the RHCM up button is stuck. This can be a frustrating issue to deal with, as it can prevent you from using certain features on your bike.

Fortunately, there are ways to diagnose and fix this issue. By using the trip reset button on your Harley-Davidson, you can read the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and determine the root cause of the problem. Once you have identified the issue, you can take steps to fix it and get your bike back in working order.

In this article, we will explore the B1321 error code in more detail. We will explain what it means, what causes it, and how to fix it. Whether you are a seasoned Harley-Davidson owner or a new rider, this guide will provide you with the information you need to address this common issue and get back on the road.

Understanding Harley Code B1321

If you own a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, you might have come across the B1321 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) at some point. This code indicates that the right-hand control module (RHCM) up button is stuck. Here’s what you need to know about this code:

Definition and Symptoms

When your Harley’s onboard diagnostic system detects a problem with the RHCM up button, it will store the B1321 DTC and activate the check engine light (CEL). You might notice that the up button isn’t working correctly or that it’s stuck in the pressed position. In some cases, you might also experience other symptoms, such as:

  • The cruise control not working
  • The turn signals not working
  • The horn not working

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to get your motorcycle checked out by a qualified technician.

Common Causes

There are several possible causes of the B1321 code, including:

  • A faulty RHCM
  • A wiring issue in the RHCM circuit
  • A stuck RHCM up button
  • A faulty ignition switch
  • A weak or dead battery

To diagnose the issue, a technician will typically use a diagnostic tool to read the DTC and perform further tests on your motorcycle’s RHCM and wiring. They might also check the battery and ignition switch to rule out other potential causes.

If you’re experiencing the symptoms of the B1321 code, it’s essential to get your motorcycle diagnosed and repaired promptly. Ignoring the issue could lead to further problems down the line and potentially compromise your safety on the road.

Troubleshooting Electrical Issues

If you are experiencing electrical issues with your Harley, it can be frustrating and time-consuming to diagnose the problem. However, with some basic knowledge and the right tools, you can troubleshoot most issues on your own. Here are some initial diagnostic steps you can take:

Initial Diagnostic Steps

  1. Check your battery voltage: The first thing you should do is check your battery voltage. Use a voltmeter to check the voltage of your battery. It should read above 12.2 volts. If it reads low, try slow charging the battery for 12 hours and re-test.

  2. Check your fuses: Check the fuses in your bike’s fuse box. If you find any blown fuses, replace them with fuses of the same rating.

  3. Check your connections: Make sure all of your electrical connections are clean and tight. Loose or corroded connections can cause a variety of issues.

  4. Check your ground: Make sure your bike’s ground is clean and tight. A poor ground can cause a variety of electrical issues.

If these initial steps do not resolve your issue, you may need to use more advanced diagnostic techniques.

Advanced Diagnostic Techniques

  1. Use a scan tool: A scan tool can help you diagnose more complex issues with your bike’s electrical system. It can read trouble codes and provide you with more detailed information about the issue.

  2. Check your sensors: If you are experiencing issues with your bike’s engine, you may need to check your sensors. The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor, Engine Temperature (ET) sensor, and Fuel Injection (FI) sensor can all cause issues if they are faulty.

  3. Check your BCM: The Body Control Module (BCM) is responsible for controlling many of your bike’s electrical systems. If you are experiencing issues with your lights, horn, or other electrical systems, you may need to check your BCM.

  4. Check your VE: The Vehicle Electrical System (VE) is responsible for controlling many of your bike’s electrical systems. If you are experiencing issues with your bike’s charging system, you may need to check your VE.

By following these initial diagnostic steps and using more advanced techniques if necessary, you can troubleshoot most electrical issues with your Harley.

Harley Control Modules

If you own a Harley Davidson, you are probably familiar with the term “control module”. The control modules are electronic devices that are responsible for controlling various systems in your motorcycle. The most common control modules in Harley Davidson motorcycles are the Body Control Module (BCM) and the Left and Right Hand Control Modules (LHCM and RHCM).

BCM Functionality

The Body Control Module (BCM) is responsible for controlling various electrical systems in your motorcycle, including the lighting, horn, and turn signals. It communicates with other control modules in the motorcycle, such as the LHCM and RHCM, to ensure that all systems are working correctly.

If your motorcycle is displaying the B1321 error code, it means that the RHCM up button is stuck. This error code is associated with the RHCM and can be caused by a variety of issues, including a faulty button or a malfunctioning control module.

LHCM and RHCM Errors

The Left and Right Hand Control Modules (LHCM and RHCM) are responsible for controlling various systems in your motorcycle, including the handlebar controls and the cruise control. If either the LHCM or RHCM experiences an internal error, it can cause a variety of issues, including difficulty starting the engine, engine cutting out, and other issues.

If you are experiencing issues with your motorcycle and suspect that the LHCM or RHCM may be the cause, it is important to have the control module checked by a qualified technician. They can diagnose the issue and determine whether the control module needs to be repaired or replaced.

In conclusion, the control modules in your Harley Davidson motorcycle are essential components that ensure that all systems are working correctly. If you experience issues with your motorcycle, it is important to have the control modules checked by a qualified technician to ensure that they are working correctly.

Signal and Button Issues

If you own a Harley Davidson motorcycle, you may encounter some issues with the handlebar controls that can cause error codes to appear on the instrument panel. One of these codes is B1321, which indicates that the RHCM (Rear Handlebar Control Module) up button is stuck. This code can also be triggered by other problems with the handlebar controls, such as the LHCM (Left Handlebar Control Module) up button or the RHCM info button being stuck.

Troubleshooting Handlebar Controls

If you’re experiencing issues with your handlebar controls, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the problem. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Check for loose connections: Make sure all the connectors for the handlebar controls are securely plugged in. Loose connections can cause error codes to appear on the instrument panel.

  2. Inspect the handlebar controls: Look for any signs of damage or wear on the handlebar controls. If any of the buttons are stuck or not working properly, they may need to be replaced.

  3. Test the handlebar controls: Use a multimeter to test the resistance of the handlebar controls. If the resistance is outside the normal range, it may indicate a problem with the controls.

Once you’ve identified the problem with your handlebar controls, you can take steps to fix it. In the case of B1321, you may need to replace the RHCM up button or the entire RHCM module.

In addition to B1321, other error codes related to handlebar controls include B1300 (Radio voltage high), B1301 (Radio voltage low), B1322 (RHCM left button stuck), B1323 (RHCM center button stuck), and B1213 (Fuel signal high). These codes can indicate a variety of problems with the handlebar controls, including issues with the radio or fuel system.

If you’re not comfortable troubleshooting your handlebar controls yourself, it’s best to take your motorcycle to a certified Harley Davidson mechanic for diagnosis and repair. They have the expertise and tools necessary to quickly identify and fix any issues with your handlebar controls.

Radio and Communication Faults

If you are experiencing issues with your Harley-Davidson’s radio or communication system, it may be due to a fault with the Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is responsible for controlling various systems in your motorcycle, including the radio and communication systems.

When there is a fault with the radio or communication system, the BCM will set a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) to help you identify the issue. One common DTC is B1321, which indicates that the RHCM (Right Hand Control Module) up button is stuck.

Addressing Radio Error Codes

If you are experiencing issues with your Harley-Davidson’s radio, there are a few things you can do to address the problem. First, check the connections to the radio and ensure they are secure. If the connections are loose, this could be causing the issue.

If the connections are secure but you are still experiencing issues, you may need to replace the radio or have it serviced. It is important to note that some radio error codes, such as B1103 and B1153, may require a software update to fix.

In addition to radio error codes, there are other communication faults that may be caused by the BCM. For example, B1200 indicates an internal fault with the BCM, while SDARS Antenna Shorted indicates a fault with the satellite radio antenna.

If you are experiencing communication faults, it is important to have your motorcycle serviced by a qualified technician. They will be able to diagnose the issue and recommend the appropriate course of action.

Overall, if you are experiencing radio or communication faults with your Harley-Davidson, it is important to address the issue as soon as possible. By taking the appropriate steps, you can ensure that your motorcycle is running smoothly and safely.

Sensor and Switch Malfunctions

If you are experiencing issues with your Harley-Davidson motorcycle, it’s important to investigate the root cause of the problem. One common issue that riders may encounter is the B1321 code, which refers to a malfunction in the body control module’s driver door ajar switch. This can cause a range of problems, including issues with the radio, instruments, and body control module.

Investigating Ignition Switch Issues

One possible cause of the B1321 code is a malfunction in the ignition switch. If you suspect that this may be the case, you can try checking the ignition switch for any signs of damage or wear. You may also want to check the voltage supply to the switch, as a low voltage can cause issues with the switch’s function.

Another possible cause of the B1321 code is a malfunction in the vehicle speed sensor (VSS). This sensor is responsible for detecting the speed of the vehicle, and if it is not functioning properly, it can cause a range of issues with the body control module and other systems.

If you are experiencing issues with the ignition or other systems, it’s important to take your motorcycle to a qualified Harley-Davidson technician for diagnosis and repair. They will be able to use specialized diagnostic tools to identify the root cause of the problem and provide a solution that will get you back on the road as quickly as possible.

In summary, if you are experiencing issues with the B1321 code, it’s important to investigate the root cause of the problem. This may involve checking the ignition switch for damage or wear, checking the voltage supply to the switch, or investigating issues with the vehicle speed sensor. With the help of a qualified technician, you can get your Harley-Davidson motorcycle back in top condition and enjoy the open road once again.

Error Codes and Meanings

If you are experiencing issues with your Harley-Davidson motorcycle, it is important to understand the error codes that may appear on your dashboard. One of the most common error codes is B1321. In this section, we will decode the B1300 series and help you understand the B1330 series.

Decoding the B1300 Series

The B1300 series of error codes are related to the body control module (BCM). The BCM is responsible for controlling various electrical components on your motorcycle, such as the lights and turn signals. Here are some of the error codes in the B1300 series:

  • B1300: BCM flash memory corrupted
  • B1301: BCM EEPROM corrupted
  • B1302: BCM out of range
  • B1303: BCM mismatch
  • B1304: BCM internal fault

If you see any of these error codes, it is recommended that you take your motorcycle to a certified Harley-Davidson dealer for diagnosis and repair.

Understanding the B1330 Series

The B1330 series of error codes are related to the radio on your motorcycle. Here are some of the error codes in the B1330 series:

  • B1330: Radio power control circuit open
  • B1331: Radio power control circuit short to ground
  • B1340: Radio output shorted to battery

If you see any of these error codes, you may need to have your radio repaired or replaced. It is recommended that you take your motorcycle to a certified Harley-Davidson dealer for diagnosis and repair.

In conclusion, understanding the error codes on your Harley-Davidson motorcycle can help you diagnose and fix issues quickly. If you see any error codes on your dashboard, it is recommended that you take your motorcycle to a certified Harley-Davidson dealer for diagnosis and repair.

Maintenance and Prevention

Regular Check-Ups and Service

To prevent issues with your Harley-Davidson motorcycle, it is important to schedule regular check-ups and service appointments with a qualified technician. During these appointments, the technician can perform diagnostic tests to identify any potential issues with your motorcycle’s systems, including the ECU, BAS, LHCM, and other components.

Regular check-ups and service appointments can help prevent issues such as code B1321, which indicates a short circuit in the driver door ajar circuit. This code can be caused by a variety of factors, including a faulty LHCM or wiring issues.

In addition to scheduling regular check-ups and service appointments, it is important to perform routine maintenance tasks such as checking your motorcycle’s battery and electrical connections. This can help prevent issues with codes such as B1322 and B1325, which indicate issues with the RHCM left and right buttons, respectively.

By taking a proactive approach to maintenance and prevention, you can help ensure that your Harley-Davidson motorcycle remains in top condition and avoid costly repairs down the road.