Harley Davidson Touring: Why Isn't My Key Fob Working?

There are a few things that can go wrong with the key fob that would cause problems starting the Harley Davidson Touring. Read on to learn how to fix the issue.

By Bassem Girgis - January 5, 2016

This article applies to the Harley Davidson Touring.

The Harley Davidson Touring comes with a key fob, and even though you don't need a remote to lock and unlock the doors on a motorcycle, it works as a security system. When you lock your Harley using your key fob, the security system activates, which means you won't be able to start the bike again without pressing the key fob. If the key fob stops working, you could be faced with a beautiful motorcycle that won't take you anywhere. This guide will shine some light on the possible culprit. Read on to learn what went wrong with your Harley Davidson Touring's key fob.

Harley Davidson Key Fob
Figure 1. Harley Davidson Key Fob.
Harley Davidson Touring Why Isn't Key Fob Working

Materials Needed

  • Key fob battery
  • Thin blade

Step 1 – Replace battery

The battery on the key fob is bound to die at one point or another. Check your owner's manual for the specific battery type that fits your key fob. Most models take 2032 batteries or equivalent. Use the thin blade to pry the key fob open. Place it in the groove between the two and bottom side, then twist it to pry it apart. Then, replace the old battery with the new one. Align the two sides of the remote together, and press them together until they click.

Pry the key fob apart
Figure 2. Pry the key fob apart.

If the battery is not the issue, proceed to Step 2.

Step 2 – Remove fuse

Pulling the main fuse has been known to solve the issue. The fuse box is located under the seat. Remove the seat and look at the fuse box diagram, which is on the cover of the fuse box, to locate the right fuse. It should be obvious which one is the main fuse even without the diagram, as it is much bigger than the rest. Pull the fuse and wait five minutes, then put it back in and try the key fob.

The big orange fuse on the right marked 40 is the main fuse
Figure 3. The big orange fuse on the right marked 40 is the main fuse.

If the key fob is still not working, move on to Step 3.

Step 3 – Reset key fob

Resetting the key fob will work as if you have bought a new key fob, but only on certain year bikes; usually 2007 and older. If you've never changed the security code, it comes automatically factory set as 7-7-7-7-7. Set the run switch to the "off" position, then set the ignition on the tank to acc. Hold both turn signals until the lights on the instrumental panel flash. Use the left turn signal to enter the number; for instance, if you're putting in the number seven, press it seven times, then use the right turn signal to enter it. Repeat with the left turn signal, and enter with the right turn signal between each number till you have don it five times, and the blinkers should flash. Then press and hold button on the key fob until the bike flashes again.

Figure 4. Left turn signal is to choose number and right turn signal is to enter it.

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