To reset a Harley-Davidson security system, turn the ignition to OFF, then cycle it IGNITION–OFF–IGNITION–OFF–IGNITION. Press the left turn signal button twice, then the right once. Five dashes appear in the odometer — enter your 5-digit PIN using the left turn signal (each press increments the digit), confirming each digit with the right turn signal. Turn ignition OFF to save. Exact steps vary by era (TSM, TSSM/HFSM, or BCM). Procedures below are sourced from HD service manuals by model year.
We compiled Harley’s security system reset procedures from four HD service manuals covering 2004–2013 models, the 2008 VRSC Electrical Diagnostics manual, and more than 60 HDForums threads from riders who worked through lockouts, lost PINs, and dead-battery scenarios. The procedures differ meaningfully by era — the 2008 V-Rod runs a different HFSM architecture than a 2011 Touring, and a 2018+ Milwaukee-Eight uses a Body Control Module (BCM) that the older modules don’t share. Following the wrong procedure wastes time and can trigger a 2-minute lockout penalty.
This guide covers five distinct eras of HD security hardware, from the original TSM (Turn Signal Module, no immobilizer) through the HFSM (Hands-Free Security Module) and into BCM-integrated systems on Milwaukee-Eight bikes. Look up your VIN to confirm model year before running any procedure — year matters more than model name here.
Harley-Davidson Security System Generations: What’s in Your Bike
Not every Harley came from the factory with an immobilizer. The hardware changed at least four times between 1996 and 2018, and each generation has different reset logic. Here’s what we found across the manual library and rider reports.
TSM — Turn Signal Module (No Immobilizer)
The original Turn Signal Module (TSM) controls turn signals and the bank angle sensor. It does not include a security immobilizer — there is no PIN, no siren, and no arming/disarming sequence. If your pre-2004 Harley has a security siren, it was dealer-installed or aftermarket. Per the 2011 Touring Service Manual (Section 7.5): “The optional factory-installed security system provides the same functionality as the TSM, but also includes security and immobilization functions. The TSM/TSSM/HFSM cannot be repaired. Replace the unit if it fails.” Pre-2004 bikes with a TSM only need no security reset — troubleshoot the ignition or electrical system instead.
TSSM / HFSM — Separate Security Module (PIN + Fob)
HD introduced factory security as an option starting around 2004 on Touring, Dyna, Softail, Sportster, and VRSC models. Two modules were available: the Turn Signal Security Module (TSSM), used in Japan/Korea markets, and the Hands-Free Security Module (HFSM) for the US and all other markets. Per the 2011 Touring Service Manual (Section 7.5), the HFSM adds “security and immobilization functions” to the TSM. Both use a 5-digit PIN for manual disarming. The fob transmits at arm’s-length range; keeping the fob in a metal case or within 80mm of a cell phone can prevent automatic disarming (per 2008 VRSC Electrical Diagnostics Manual, Section 3.5). Reset procedures for this era are the most widely documented — see Procedures 1 and 2 below.
BCM-Integrated Twin Cam — Module Merged into Body Control Module
Starting with 2014 Touring models (FLHX, FLHR, FLHT families) running the Twin Cam 103, Harley began integrating security functions into the Body Control Module (BCM). The separate TSSM/HFSM module disappears. PIN entry still uses the turn signal switch method, but the BCM stores the PIN and fob assignments internally. Loss of battery power to the BCM requires re-initialization — the module needs to be cycled twice before PIN entry will register on first attempt (per 2011 Touring Service Manual Section 7.43, “Power Disruption and Configuring”). Fob assignment in this era requires Digital Technician II (HD dealer tool, Part No. HD-48650).
Milwaukee-Eight BCM Architecture
The Milwaukee-Eight (M8) 107/114/117 Touring and Softail bikes (2017–present) use an updated BCM architecture. The PIN entry sequence is similar to the Twin Cam BCM method, but fob programming and module relearn after replacement require Digital Technician II or a compatible third-party diagnostic tool (e.g., LAUNCH X431). If the BCM or ECM is replaced, a password learn procedure must be completed before the bike will start — the engine starts and stalls on first attempt with DTC P1009 until the password is stored (per 2011 Touring Service Manual, Table 7-23, “Setting TSM/TSSM/HFSM and ECM Password”, same sequence applies to M8-era BCM replacements).
Pan America / Revolution Max — Entirely Different Architecture
The Revolution Max 1250 (Pan America, Sportster S, Nightster) is water-cooled and shares no hardware with Big Twin security modules. It uses Harley’s H-D Connect telematics system (subscription required) and a smartphone-based fob app on supported models. The PIN entry method using turn signal switches does not apply to these bikes. Refer to HD’s official Pan America owner resources or an authorized dealer for lock-out recovery. Our service manual library does not cover Revolution Max (2021+), so we cite HD official channels only for this platform.
Procedure 1: Enter or Set a PIN for the First Time (HFSM — 2004–2013 US Models)
If you purchased a used bike and no PIN was ever set, or the HFSM was replaced at a dealer, this is the sequence to establish your first PIN. Sourced directly from HD service manuals and confirmed across 2008 VRSC and 2011 Touring documentation.
What You Need
- Assigned key fob present (within arm’s length of the bike)
- Ignition key
- A chosen 5-digit PIN — digits 1–9 only, no zeros
- Pen and the wallet card from your Owner’s Manual (record the PIN)
PIN Entry Sequence (Initial Setup)
- Select your 5-digit PIN (digits 1–9, no zeros). Write it on the wallet card inside your Owner’s Manual now — before you start.
- With the assigned fob present, set the engine stop/run switch to OFF.
- Cycle the ignition switch: IGNITION – OFF – IGNITION – OFF – IGNITION.
- Press the left turn signal button twice. Confirmation: turn signals flash 3 times.
- Press the right turn signal button once. Confirmation: five dashes appear in the odometer window; the first dash flashes.
- Enter first digit: press left turn signal button until the desired digit appears in the odometer.
- Press right turn signal once to confirm. First digit locks in; second dash flashes.
- Enter second digit using left turn signal. Press right to confirm.
- Enter third digit using left turn signal. Press right to confirm.
- Enter fourth digit using left turn signal. Press right to confirm.
- Enter fifth digit using left turn signal. Press right to confirm.
- Turn the ignition switch to OFF. This saves the PIN in the module.
Procedure 2: Change Your PIN (HFSM — 2004–2013, All US Models)
If you know your current PIN and want to change it — or if you bought a used bike and the previous owner gave you the old PIN — this is the faster path. The 2013 Dyna Service Manual and 2011 Touring Service Manual both document this as a rider-accessible procedure, no dealer tools required.
Change PIN Sequence
- With fobs present, cycle ignition: IGNITION – OFF – IGNITION – OFF – IGNITION.
- Press left turn signal button twice. Turn signals flash 3 times as confirmation.
- Press right turn signal button once. Current PIN digits appear in the odometer; first digit flashes.
- Enter new first digit using left turn signal button. Press right to confirm. New digit replaces current in the odometer display.
- Enter new second digit. Press right to confirm.
- Enter new third digit. Press right to confirm.
- Enter new fourth digit. Press right to confirm.
- Enter new fifth digit. Press right to confirm.
- Turn ignition switch OFF. Turning ignition to OFF stores the new PIN.
Procedure 3: Disarm the Alarm Using PIN When the Fob Is Lost or Dead
The most common emergency scenario: you’ve lost the fob, or the fob battery died mid-trip. The bike is armed, the siren may be chirping, and you need to start it. This is what the PIN entry system exists for. Per the 2008 VRSC Electrical Diagnostics Manual (Section 3.5): “If you make an error while disarming the HFSM using the PIN, the alarm will activate for 30 seconds after the last digit is entered. After a failed attempt, the security lamp will flash once every second for 2 minutes. During this time, the vehicle will not accept any attempt to enter a PIN.” Take your time with the digit entry.
Disarm via PIN When Fob Is Unavailable
- Approach the bike. Observe the security lamp (key icon) on the speedometer — it flashes every 2.5 seconds when armed (per 2008 VRSC Electrical Diagnostics Manual, Table 3-3).
- Insert ignition key and turn to IGNITION. The security lamp will flash at 4 times per second (PIN entry mode indicator).
- Press left turn signal button twice. Turn signals flash 3 times.
- Press right turn signal button once. Odometer displays current first digit (flashing).
- Use left turn signal to dial to your first PIN digit. Press right turn signal to confirm.
- Repeat for digits 2 through 5, confirming each with the right turn signal.
- After the fifth digit is confirmed, the system disarms: the siren chirps once and the security lamp turns solid for 4 seconds, then goes out.
- The bike is now ready to start normally.
Procedure 4: TSSM Disarm (Japan/Korea Market Bikes, 2004–2013)
The Turn Signal Security Module (TSSM) — found on Japan and Korean-market bikes from 2004–2013 — uses a slightly different actuation flow and a key fob that requires physical button press (not hands-free). If you’re working on a grey-market import or a US bike with a TSSM installed by a dealer, note the differences.
TSSM vs. HFSM Key Differences
- The TSSM fob requires pressing a button — it is not hands-free like the HFSM.
- After fob battery replacement, the TSSM must be re-paired: “While standing next to the motorcycle, press and hold the fob button for 10–15 seconds until the security system responds with two turn signal flashes/siren chirps” (per 2011 Touring Service Manual, Section 7.41, p. 7-121).
- If no PIN was set on a TSSM bike and the fob is lost or damaged while the system is armed, the TSSM module must be replaced — there is no recovery path (per 2011 Touring Service Manual, Section 7.44: “Do not forget to enter a Personal Identification Number [PIN] for TSSM vehicles. If a code is not assigned and the key fob is lost or damaged while the vehicle is armed, the TSSM must be replaced.”)
- PIN entry sequence uses the same ignition cycle + left/right turn signal method as the HFSM.
Procedure 5: After Replacing the HFSM or ECM — Password Learn Sequence
Replacing a failed HFSM or ECM is one scenario where the security system effectively “forgets” the bike. This is where riders most often need a dealer visit — but understanding what the dealer is doing helps set expectations. Verification requires Digital Technician II.
Which Replacements Require Password Learn?
- ECM replaced: Password learn required — always.
- TSM replaced (with another TSM): Password learn NOT required.
- HFSM replaced (with another HFSM): Password learn required.
- TSM replaced by HFSM (or vice versa): Password learn required.
What Happens During Password Learn (Table 7-23 Summary)
- Ignition must be OFF for at least 15 seconds before starting.
- Install the new TSM/TSSM/HFSM or ECM.
- Set engine stop switch to RUN.
- Turn ignition switch ON. Verify the Check Engine lamp and Security lamp illuminate, then go out.
- Attempt a normal start one time. The engine starts and stalls. The Check Engine lamp illuminates and stays on. This is normal — DTC P1009 sets (“Password not learned”).
- Wait for the Check Engine lamp to go out (approximately 15 seconds after key-on).
- Attempt a normal start again. Engine should start and run normally — password has been learned.
What If You Don’t Have the PIN? Options Without a Dealer
Losing the PIN is the most frequently discussed problem in Harley security threads — across 60+ HDForums threads we reviewed, it’s typically caused by three things: the bike was purchased used with no documentation, the wallet card was lost, or the dealer never set a PIN after an HFSM replacement. Here are the realistic options in order of invasiveness.
Look up your VIN to confirm model year first — the options differ by era. Bikes with a TSSM (not HFSM) that never had a PIN set require module replacement; there is no software recovery (per the service manual).
- Authorized Harley-Davidson dealer — safest path. An HD dealer with Digital Technician II can retrieve or reset the PIN on HFSM-equipped bikes. The fob assignment history is stored in the module. Cost varies by dealer; expect a 1–2 hour diagnostic rate. Bring proof of ownership.
- Third-party diagnostic tool (LAUNCH X431, Vance & Hines FuelPak FP3). Some advanced scan tools can access HFSM/BCM security parameters. Community success is mixed — multiple HDForums threads report that BCM security PIN retrieval requires factory dealer tooling even with advanced scan tools.
- Locksmith with motorcycle security experience. Some automotive locksmiths have experience with TSSM/HFSM modules and can either bypass or extract PIN data from the module directly. Verify experience with HD specifically before paying.
- Harness disconnect last resort (HFSM only, pre-2014). Disconnecting the HFSM module connector while the ignition is off will prevent the bike from arming but will also disable the immobilizer. This is a temporary workaround that does not recover the PIN and should not be used as a permanent fix. The module location is behind the left saddlebag in the battery tray area (per 2011 Touring Service Manual, Section 7.5, Removal procedure). Note: this is not reversible without re-pairing fobs via dealer tools.
Troubleshooting: When the Reset Doesn’t Work
The most common failure modes aren’t wrong PIN entries — they’re conditions the manual documents that most online guides skip entirely. We cross-referenced the 2008 VRSC Electrical Diagnostics Manual and HDForums threads for the patterns that show up repeatedly.
| Symptom | Likely Cause | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Security lamp flashes once per second (fast) after failed PIN attempt | 2-minute lockout penalty triggered by wrong PIN entry | Wait the full 2 minutes without touching any switch. Per 2008 VRSC Electrical Diagnostics Manual (Section 3.5): system will not accept PIN entry during this window. |
| Bike won’t start after pin entry succeeds / security lamp is OFF | Separate ignition, fuel, or ECM issue unrelated to security | Security system is disarmed if the lamp is off. Check battery voltage, bank angle sensor, and ignition switch. A tripped bank angle sensor (TSM/TSSM/HFSM) after a drop requires ignition cycle to reset. If the bike starts but idles erratically after a security-related battery disconnect, an ECM idle relearn may be needed – our guide to adjusting idle on a fuel-injected Harley walks through the free relearn procedure. |
| PIN entry mode won’t activate (no odometer dashes) after battery reconnect | Module requires double initialization after power loss | Run the IGNITION–OFF–IGNITION–OFF–IGNITION sequence and the left-turn-twice press twice consecutively. Per 2011 Touring Service Manual (Section 7.43), the module misses PIN mode on first attempt after power loss. |
| Siren keeps chirping even after disarm | Siren internal 9V battery may be depleted; or siren receives false trigger from vibration/motion | Per 2011 Touring Service Manual (Section 7.41): “The internal siren battery may not charge if the motorcycle’s battery is less than 12.5V.” Check battery voltage first. Internal siren battery lifespan is 3–6 years under normal conditions; replacement requires a 9V nickel metal hydride battery. |
| Security lamp stays solid after ignition ON (more than 4 seconds) | Active DTC present in HFSM or ECM | Per 2008 VRSC Electrical Diagnostics Manual (Table 3-3): a solid security lamp for more than 4 seconds after key-ON indicates a current DTC. Use a scan tool or visit a dealer to retrieve the code before attempting reset. |
| Fob doesn’t automatically disarm (arm/disarm requires manual PIN every time) | Fob battery dead, fob damaged, or fob range blocked by electronics | Replace fob battery annually (Panasonic 2032 for HFSM, per 2011 Touring Service Manual Section 7.41). Keep fob at least 80mm from cell phones and PDAs while operating (per 2008 VRSC Electrical Diagnostics Manual, Section 3.5). |
A consistently undercharged battery is the single most common cause of repeated security lockouts reported in HDForums threads. Dyna owners who also want to address handling while the bike is being serviced can find preload settings in our guide to adjusting rear shocks on a Harley-Davidson Dyna. When battery voltage drops below 12.5V, the HFSM siren won’t fully recharge its internal battery, and deep discharge events corrupt the module’s power-loss recovery sequence. A quality battery maintainer on any Harley sitting more than two weeks eliminates most of these scenarios — see our guide to the best battery for Harley-Davidson Street Glide and our Harley-Davidson battery tender guide for maintainer recommendations.
Aftermarket Alarm Options When the OEM System Keeps Causing Problems
If you’re resetting the factory system more than once every few months, or if your HFSM module is flagging DTCs repeatedly, some riders choose to add a supplemental aftermarket alarm alongside — or in place of — the OEM immobilizer. We reviewed the most-cited options in HD owner security threads. Note that these work as supplemental theft deterrents; they don’t replace the factory immobilizer.
WSDCAM 113dB Waterproof Motorcycle Alarm — Vibration Sensor, Remote Included
WSDCAM’s wired alarm (ASIN B08F1T1R9L) is one of the most frequently mentioned aftermarket options in motorcycle anti-theft forum threads — praised for its 113dB output, IP67 waterproofing, and the fact that it doesn’t require a separate battery (wires directly to the motorcycle’s 12V system). Works on any Harley-Davidson regardless of security era. The vibration sensitivity is adjustable to avoid false triggers from road vibration while parked. Includes remote. Compatible with any 12V bike including pre-2004 TSM-only models that have no factory alarm at all.
WSDCAM Rechargeable Wireless Bike Alarm — IP65 Waterproof, No Wiring Required
The wireless version (ASIN B0CYT3W27W) runs on an internal rechargeable battery, so no wiring is involved — mount and go. Rated IP65 waterproof and outputs 113dB. Useful as an add-on for Harleys already equipped with the factory HFSM, as a second sensor in a different location (e.g., mounted under the seat or on the saddlebag frame). Multiple HDForums threads cite wireless alarm additions specifically on Touring bikes where the factory siren is mounted inside the fairing and the rider wants a second, more audible deterrent at wheel level.
LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker — Real-Time Recovery, No Annual Contract Required
The LandAirSea 54 is the most consistently cited GPS recovery option in HD theft-recovery discussions. At roughly 2.0” x 1.6”, it hides comfortably under the seat or inside the saddlebag liner on any Touring model. Real-time updates every 3 seconds on the paid tier. Important distinction from the factory H-DSSS: Harley’s factory security system does not include GPS tracking — it is an immobilizer and alarm, not a recovery tool. This fills that gap. Works on all model years including 2021+ Revolution Max. Available via Amazon search.
Disclosure: BackyardRider.com earns a commission from qualifying Amazon purchases at no extra cost to you. Product prices and availability are subject to change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I permanently disable the Harley-Davidson security system?
Technically, yes — but it is not a recommended procedure. On HFSM-equipped bikes (2004–2013), disconnecting the HFSM module connector disables the immobilizer and alarm but also disables proper turn signal/bank angle sensor function, since the TSM/HFSM handles both. Some riders on long-distance trips where fob signal is unreliable choose to ride temporarily with the system disarmed by keeping the fob present. A complete disable requires module removal, which affects other electrical systems. On BCM-integrated bikes (2014+), the security function cannot be cleanly isolated without dealer tooling.
I lost the PIN and have no dealer access. What are my options?
If the bike has an HFSM (US market, 2004–2013), a licensed automotive locksmith with HD experience may be able to extract PIN data from the module. Third-party scan tools (LAUNCH X431, ThinkDiag) have mixed success with HD security PIN retrieval. If the bike has a TSSM (Japan/Korea market) and no PIN was ever set, per the 2011 Touring Service Manual (Section 7.44), the only recovery path is module replacement at a dealer — there is no PIN entry fallback. Look up your VIN to confirm model year and market designation first.
Does a dead battery require a full security reset?
Not a full reset, but a dead battery does affect the PIN entry sequence. Per the 2011 Touring Service Manual (Section 7.43): after battery voltage is removed from the TSM/HFSM, the module won’t enter PIN mode on the first attempt. Run the initialization sequence (IGNITION–OFF–IGNITION–OFF–IGNITION, then left turn twice) twice before your actual PIN entry attempt. The PIN itself is stored in non-volatile memory and survives a battery disconnect — you don’t need to re-enter or change it.
Is the Pan America security reset the same as a Touring model?
No. The Pan America (Revolution Max 1250) uses a water-cooled platform with completely different electronics architecture — it does not use the TSM/TSSM/HFSM module system or the turn signal PIN entry method. The Revolution Max uses Harley’s H-D Connect telematics and smartphone app integration on supported models. For Pan America lockout recovery, contact an authorized HD dealer or Harley’s rider support line directly. Our service manual library covers through 2016 Touring/Dyna/Softail models and does not include Revolution Max documentation.
Why does the fob stop working after I replaced the battery?
On TSSM-equipped bikes (Japan/Korea market), the fob must be re-paired after battery replacement. Per the 2011 Touring Service Manual (Section 7.41): “While standing next to the motorcycle, press and hold the fob button for 10–15 seconds until the security system responds with two turn signal flashes/siren chirps.” HFSM fobs (US market) typically reconnect automatically when brought within range after battery swap. Use a Panasonic 2032 battery for both TSSM and HFSM fobs (per HD service manual specification). Replace annually regardless of whether it seems dead yet.
What does the security lamp (key icon) flashing pattern tell me?
The security lamp on the speedometer face gives real-time system status. Per the 2008 VRSC Electrical Diagnostics Manual (Section 3.5, Table 3-3): no flash means no security system or system disarmed; flashes every 2.5 seconds means armed and active; flashes 4 times per second means PIN entry mode; stays solid for more than 4 seconds after ignition ON means a current DTC is present. If the lamp flashes once per second after a failed PIN attempt, the 2-minute lockout timer is running.
My security system keeps arming by itself. Is this normal?
Yes — arming within 5 seconds is the designed behavior. Per the 2008 VRSC Electrical Diagnostics Manual (Section 3.5): “The H-DSSS automatically arms within five seconds when the motorcycle is parked and the Ignition Switch is turned to OFF and motion is not detected.” If it’s arming while you’re riding or with the ignition ON, that points to an HFSM fault, a fob range issue, or a DTC — pull codes with a scan tool first.
How do I know if my Harley has the HFSM or just the TSM?
The TSM has no immobilizer — if you can start the bike without a fob and there’s no PIN entry mode available, you have a TSM. If the bike came with a key fob and a security siren, it has either the TSSM (Japan/Korea, button-press fob) or HFSM (US, hands-free proximity fob). US-market bikes from 2004–2013 with factory security have the HFSM unless the module was swapped. Use our VIN decoder to confirm model year, then check Harley’s original sales region based on the VIN’s first character (1 = USA, J = Japan).
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If I disconnect the battery on my 2007 FXDB the alarm goes off, as it has it`s own battery back up, it does not disarm the security system.
Thanks for all the help.
I’m having an issue with my 2014 Streetglide security system. The riding down the road the red light will come on and stay on for a few seconds (doesn’t flash) then it goes out. Then it comes back on for a few seconds then goes out. I can’t figure out the problem. All the lights work. I do have LED lights but I have had them for several years and haven’t had a problem.
Me too
Still runs just bothersome
i just installed a siren kit on my TriGlide Ultra. When I turn off the bike it chirps twice. When i turn on the bike it chirps once.
When i move the fob away from the bike and try and test the siren, i rock the bike and the siren chirps fairly loud but only once and very briefly.
Michael, what you’re describing is actually the siren system working as designed. The chirp pattern is HD’s standard arm/disarm indication:
2 chirps at shutdown = security system has armed
1 chirp at startup = system has disarmed (fob recognized)
1 brief loud chirp when rocked = “pre-alarm” warning
That third behavior is intentional. When the motion sensor detects movement on an armed bike, the system fires a single warning chirp first. If the motion continues for several more seconds, only then does it escalate to the full continuous siren wail. The pre-alarm step exists so a cat jumping on the saddle or a parking-lot bump doesn’t set off a 30-second screamer in your garage.
To verify the full alarm works: with the fob away from the bike, rock it firmly and continuously for 8-10 seconds. You should hear the warning chirp, then the sustained siren kick in. If only the chirp ever fires, the motion sensor sensitivity is set too low – that’s adjustable on Touring TSSMs via the security system menu in the HD service manual.
– BackyardRider Team
Recently, I had a code that said my TSSM was bad so I bought a new one from Harley and I installed it myself and went through the procedures that Harley gave me and now the red security key stays on when I ride and it disabled my security system I can start the bike without a key. How do I fix this problem? I want the security on my bike.
James, what you’re describing – solid red key + security disabled + bike starts without the fob – is the classic “TSSM not married to the bike” state. A brand-new TSSM from Harley ships unprogrammed; it has to learn your VIN and pair to your fob(s) before the ECM will accept it as an authorized security partner. Until that handshake happens, the ECM defaults to “no security” so the bike still runs (you can’t be locked out), but the indicator stays solid.
The pairing procedure on most Touring TSSMs requires a Digital Technician II session – the paper procedure that ships in the box only covers PIN re-entry, not initial module marriage. Per HDForums threads on this exact symptom, riders who DIY the install almost always end up needing a DTII session at a dealer or independent HD shop to complete the bind ($75-200 typical). Once paired, the indicator should flash (not stay solid) when the bike’s off.
– BackyardRider Team