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2019 Harley-Davidson FLHR Road King — Common Issues & Known Problems

Known Issues & Owner Reports

These are the most commonly reported issues and concerns from owners, mechanics, and community forums for the 2019 Harley-Davidson FLHR Road King.

Oil Sumping
High

Oil accumulates in the crankcase instead of returning to the tank, causing power loss and potential engine damage.

Addressed in TSB M1450; fix involves installing the 2020-spec oil pump.
manufacturer tsb high confidence
Transmission Fluid Migration
Medium

Fluid transfers from the transmission into the primary case due to a vacuum effect.

Addressed in TSB M1492; fix involves installing a primary vent kit.
manufacturer tsb high confidence
Inaccurate Fuel Gauge
Low

The fuel level sensor often reports 'low fuel' prematurely or fluctuates wildly.

Commonly solved by resetting the trip odometer at every fill-up.
community pattern medium confidence
Harmonic Vibration
Low

Riders report a distinct vibration through the floorboards and bars between 1800 and 2200 RPM.

Often considered a characteristic of the engine, but can be exacerbated by loose motor mounts.
community pattern medium confidence

Used Buying Inspection Checklist

What to look for when buying a used 2019 Harley-Davidson FLHR Road King.

Transmission Fluid Level

Check if the transmission oil is low and the primary is high; this indicates a fluid migration issue that requires a vent kit fix.

Oil Sumping Signs

During a test ride, check for a sudden loss of power or excessive heat, which are symptoms of oil pooling in the crankcase.

Windshield Clips

The spring-loaded clips that hold the windshield in place can vibrate loose; ensure they lock firmly and aren't bent.

Service History (M1450/M1492)

Confirm if the TSBs for oil sumping and fluid migration have been addressed by a dealer.