2016 Harley-Davidson FLHXS Street Glide Special — Maintenance & Ownership Guide
Routine Maintenance
Key maintenance tasks to keep your 2016 Harley-Davidson FLHXS Street Glide Special running reliably.
Oil Service
Requires a '3-hole' oil change: Engine (approx 4 qts), Primary (approx 1 qt), and Transmission (approx 1 qt).
Brake Fluid Flush
The Reflex Linked ABS system requires a DOT 4 fluid flush every 2 years to prevent moisture buildup and ABS module failure.
Common Wear Items
Parts that wear over time on the 2016 Harley-Davidson FLHXS Street Glide Special and should be inspected regularly.
Rear Tire
The heavy weight (810 lbs) and high torque of the 103 engine often result in rear tire replacement every 7,000–10,000 miles.
Brake Pads
Standard pads wear quickly under heavy touring loads; many owners switch to Lyndall or EBC sintered pads for better longevity and bite.
Popular Upgrades
The most popular aftermarket upgrades for the 2016 Harley-Davidson FLHXS Street Glide Special.
Stage 1 Performance
High-flow air intake, slip-on mufflers, and a tuner (like Vance & Hines FP3) are standard upgrades to reduce engine heat and improve throttle response.
LED Lighting
While the Special has a dual halogen headlight, many owners upgrade to the Daymaker LED for significantly better night visibility.
Windshield
The stock 4-inch smoked wind deflector is largely cosmetic; most riders swap for a 7-inch or 10-inch recurve shield to reduce buffeting.
Common Replacement Parts
Parts that commonly need replacing on the 2016 Harley-Davidson FLHXS Street Glide Special.
Saddlebag Mounting Pins
Though 2016 models received updated pins, many owners replace the stock quarter-turn pins with threaded 'theft-deterrent' bolts to prevent bags from falling off.
Battery
The high-compression 103 engine and extensive electronics (Boom! Box) put a heavy load on the battery; typically lasts 3-4 years.
Used Buying Inspection Checklist
What to look for when buying a used 2016 Harley-Davidson FLHXS Street Glide Special.
Compensator Noise
Listen for a loud 'clunk' or 'bang' during startup, which indicates a worn or failing compensator sprocket, a known Twin Cam weak point.
Infotainment Screen
Check for 'ghost touching' or screen delamination on the 6.5GT unit, especially if the bike was stored outdoors.
Primary Leak
Inspect the bottom of the primary and the inner primary seal for oil weeping, often caused by heat-related seal hardening.
Handlebar Bushings
Check for excessive play in the bars; the stock rubber bushings often soften, leading to a 'mushy' steering feel.
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