Losing your Harley Davidson key fob can be a frustrating and stressful experience, potentially leaving you stranded and unable to start your motorcycle. If you’re dealing with a Lost Harley Key Fob, understanding your options and taking proactive steps is crucial for every Harley owner. Many riders find themselves in this predicament, and thankfully, there are solutions to get you back on the road.
Harley Davidson security systems are designed to protect your bike, and the key fob is a central component of this system. Modern Harley bikes often utilize a buttonless key fob system, which automatically arms the security system when the ignition is turned off. This system relies on the fob being in close proximity to the motorcycle for starting. Older models might require manual arming via a button on the fob. Regardless of the type, losing your fob presents a security challenge.
One common misconception is hiding a spare key fob on the motorcycle itself. While seemingly convenient, this practice actually compromises your security. For newer, buttonless fob systems, keeping a fob hidden nearby bypasses the security feature entirely, as the bike will start if the ignition is jumped. For older systems, a hidden fob means the security system is never activated if you rely solely on the hidden fob and forget your primary one.
So, what should you do if you’ve experienced a lost Harley key fob situation? The most straightforward solution, as even your Harley Davidson owner’s manual will advise, involves your Personal Identification Number (PIN). Setting up and memorizing your PIN is the most critical step you can take as a Harley owner to prepare for a lost fob scenario. If you have set your PIN, you can use it to disarm the security system and start your bike, even without the fob present. This allows you to operate your motorcycle and, crucially, get it to a safe location where you can address the lost Harley key fob issue properly.
However, if you’re facing a lost Harley key fob and have never set your PIN, or have forgotten it, the situation becomes more complex. In such cases, replacing the TSSM (Turn Signal Security Module) or HFSM (Hands-Free Security Module) is often the necessary solution. These modules are paired with your specific key fobs, and without a PIN to override the system, a replacement is typically required to program new fobs to your motorcycle.
While replacing the TSSM/HFSM might sound drastic, it’s a security measure designed to prevent theft. The pairing process between the ECM (Engine Control Module) and the new security module takes approximately half an hour, intentionally slowing down any potential unauthorized replacements. This delay is a deterrent against theft, making it less appealing for thieves to attempt module swapping in public places.
To proactively avoid the headache of a lost Harley key fob, there are several best practices every Harley rider should follow. Firstly, always purchase two key fobs when you buy your motorcycle. Program both fobs to your TSSM/HFSM immediately. Keep one fob as your primary and store the second in a safe, secure location as a spare. Consider hiding the spare fob on your bike, but crucially, remove the battery. Keep the battery separate and in a secure place. This way, the hidden fob is only usable in an emergency when you retrieve and install the battery, and it doesn’t compromise your daily security.
Furthermore, and perhaps most importantly, set your PIN as soon as you get your Harley Davidson. Record this PIN in a secure and memorable location, separate from your motorcycle. Your owner’s manual contains detailed instructions on how to set and use your PIN for security override and lost Harley key fob situations. If you don’t have an owner’s manual, obtaining one from a Harley Davidson parts department is a worthwhile investment. It provides essential information not only for PIN setup but also for various other functions like transport mode and general motorcycle operation.
In conclusion, while a lost Harley key fob can be inconvenient, being prepared can significantly mitigate the stress and hassle. Setting your PIN, having a spare fob (stored intelligently), and familiarizing yourself with your owner’s manual are the best defenses against being stranded. And remember, in a worst-case scenario, TSSM/HFSM replacement, while a more involved solution, is a viable option to regain control after a lost Harley key fob incident.
