Most Annoying Harley Livewire Problems Get Revealed

The electric motorcycles market has seen a surge in popularity over the past few years. Amidst this transformation, the launch of the Harley Davidson LiveWire – the brand’s first electric model – signaled a significant shift in the motorcycle industry. However, while the LiveWire has been widely praised for its performance and features, it hasn’t been free of issues. The most notable among these is the Harley LiveWire charging problem that has plagued the community. This article delves deep into the issues faced by Harley Davidson LiveWire owners and offers insights into troubleshooting and maintaining this electric marvel effectively. Ready? Let’s get charged up.

Example of the LiveWire motorcycle from Harley Davidson

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Identifying Common Harley Davidson LiveWire Problems

One of the major issues that have emerged with the Harley LiveWire pertains to its charging system. Numerous owners have reported harley livewire charging problems, which seem to stem from the onboard charging system. Some riders have even experienced a total shutdown of the electric vehicle powertrain without any clear indication, making it a significant concern.

Battery life is another concern that has been raised by LiveWire owners. While the company claims a city range of 146 miles on a full charge, real-world riding experiences often fall short of these numbers. This discrepancy in range can be a significant issue, especially for those planning long rides.

The LiveWire also comes with a hefty price tag, starting at $30,000. This high cost can be a deterrent for many potential buyers, despite the bike’s impressive features and performance.

Troubleshooting Charging Issues with The Harley LiveWire

If you’re facing charging problems with your Harley LiveWire, it’s crucial to understand the potential causes before you attempt to resolve the issue. The problem could stem from the onboard charging system, the charging equipment, or even the charging station.

Before you start troubleshooting, ensure that you’re using the correct charging equipment and that it’s in good condition. If you’re plugging the bike into a home outlet, make sure the outlet is functioning properly and delivering the required power.

If your LiveWire refuses to charge despite these checks, it might be a good idea to take it to an authorized Harley Davidson dealership for a thorough inspection. The company has well-trained technicians who can diagnose and fix the issue.

Known Defects in the Harley Davidson LiveWire Model

Despite the LiveWire’s groundbreaking design and features, it’s not entirely free from defects. The most prominent issue is the charging problem that has led to Harley-Davidson recalling all 2020 LiveWire motorcycles manufactured within a specific date range. This recall was a result of an issue with the onboard charging system that caused a power loss.

Furthermore, there have been instances where the LiveWire bikes failed to communicate effectively with certain charging stations. This problem, coupled with the limited number of CCS chargers available in some areas, can make charging the LiveWire a challenging task.

Frequent Maintenance Needs for a Harley LiveWire

Like any other vehicle, the Harley LiveWire requires regular maintenance to ensure its optimal performance. While electric motorcycles generally require less maintenance than their petrol counterparts, certain components need regular checking and servicing.

The first component to monitor is the battery. Regularly check the battery’s health and ensure it’s charging and discharging properly. If you notice any significant drop in the bike’s range or any charging issues, it could indicate a problem with the battery.

Another essential aspect of maintaining your LiveWire is monitoring the onboard software. Harley-Davidson often releases software updates to fix known issues and enhance the bike’s performance. Keep your LiveWire software updated to ensure a smooth ride.

Resolving the Harley LiveWire Charging Problem

If you’re experiencing charging issues with your Harley LiveWire, there are a couple of steps you can take. Firstly, ensure that your charging station and equipment are functioning properly. Try charging another electric device to confirm the station’s functionality.

If you’re using a home outlet, verify that it’s capable of delivering the required power. A faulty home outlet can lead to charging issues. If possible, try charging your LiveWire at a different location to rule out any issues with your home’s power supply.

Should the problem persist, it’s recommended to take your LiveWire to an authorized Harley-Davidson dealership. The technicians there will conduct a thorough inspection and rectify any issues they find.

Harley Davidson LiveWire Recalls

In light of the charging problem, Harley-Davidson has issued a recall for all LiveWire motorcycles produced between September 23, 2019, and March 16, 2020. The company estimated that around 1% of these bikes suffer from a power interruption issue originating in the onboard charging system.

Harley-Davidson has assured that it will contact owners to inform them if their LiveWire is included in the recall. The company offers free pick-up and return service for the affected bikes, and will update the LiveWire’s software to remove the potential power interruption issue.

Harley Davidson LiveWire Battery

The Harley Davidson LiveWire uses a high-voltage Lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 15.5 kWh. However, some owners have reported issues with the battery life and charging. If you note any significant drop in the bike’s range or charging-related issues, it could be due to a faulty or worn-out battery.

Remember, like any other Lithium-ion battery, the LiveWire’s battery will lose some of its capacity over time. Regularly monitoring the battery’s health and charging it properly can help extend its life.

Is It Risky to Purchase a Harley Davidson LiveWire?

While the Harley Davidson LiveWire has had its share of issues, it’s important to note that these problems are not universal. Many LiveWire owners have reported a smooth and exhilarating riding experience with no significant issues.

However, the high price tag and the potential charging issues are factors to consider. If you’re planning to buy a LiveWire, make sure to do thorough research, consider your riding habits, and weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

Harley Davidson LiveWire Warranty

Harley Davidson offers a 2-year unlimited mileage warranty on the LiveWire. The warranty covers parts and labor for any manufacturing defects. Furthermore, the high-voltage battery comes with a 5-year warranty. If your LiveWire faces any charging issues or other problems during this period, the company will rectify them free of charge.

Signs of Charging Problems in a Harley LiveWire

Some common signs that your Harley LiveWire might be facing charging problems include:

The bike fails to start or shuts down without any clear indication

The range doesn’t increase even after charging the bike for a significant amount of time
The bike’s range has significantly dropped
The battery health indicator shows a low health score

If you notice any of these signs, take your LiveWire to an authorized dealership for a thorough check-up.

Customer Reviews About Harley Davidson LiveWire’s Performance

Despite the charging issues, the Harley Davidson LiveWire has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from customers. Riders have praised the bike’s smooth performance, instant acceleration, and exhilarating riding experience. The bike’s design and high-tech features, such as the touchscreen dashboard and advanced electronics system, have also been appreciated.

However, some riders have expressed concerns about the bike’s range and charging issues. The high price tag has also been a point of contention among potential buyers.

Harley Davidson LiveWire Battery Lifespan

The lifespan of the Harley Davidson LiveWire’s battery depends on several factors, including riding habits, charging practices, and environmental conditions. However, with proper care and maintenance, the battery is expected to retain 80% of its initial capacity even after 500 full charge cycles.

DIY Fixes for Common Harley Davidson LiveWire Problems

While most Harley Davidson LiveWire problems require professional assistance, there are a few basic checks you can perform if you’re facing issues with your bike:

Ensure the charging equipment is in good condition and the charging station is functioning properly

Regularly update the bike’s software
Monitor the battery’s health and charge it properly

However, for any significant issues, especially those related to charging, it’s recommended to seek professional help from an authorized Harley Davidson dealership.

Checking Parts in Case of Charging Problems

If your Harley Davidson LiveWire is not charging, there are a few parts you should check:

Charging equipment: Ensure the charging cable and the charging station are in good condition and functioning properly
Battery: Check the battery’s health and ensure it’s charging and discharging properly

Onboard charging system: If the bike fails to start or shuts down without any clear indication, it might be a problem with the onboard charging system

If these checks don’t resolve the issue, it’s best to take your LiveWire to an authorized Harley Davidson dealership for a thorough inspection.

Preventing Future Charging Problems with Harley LiveWire

Preventing future charging issues with your Harley LiveWire involves regular maintenance and proper charging practices. Here are a few tips:

Always use the correct charging equipment and ensure it’s in good condition
Regularly monitor the battery’s health and charge it properly
Keep the bike’s software updated

Regularly service your bike at an authorized Harley Davidson dealership

By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth riding experience with your Harley Davidson LiveWire and minimize the chances of facing charging issues.

I’ll end it with this: while the Harley Davidson LiveWire has had its share of issues, it’s an impressive piece of machinery that signals the future of motorcycles. With proper care, maintenance, and addressing the charging issue correctly, you can enjoy a smooth and exhilarating ride on this electric marvel.