Last night I noticed that my brake light stays on all the time. Of course, being sales people they may tell you anything, but I think that is more likely than not baloney. This article applies to the Harley Davidson Touring. Should you encounter something similar and you own an older-model vehicle, expect to replace your brake light bulbs a bit more often, as these cars still have traditional bulbs compared to more recent transports that have LED lights. 5 Reasons Why Your Brake Pedal Goes to the Floor. The fluid level should be within maximum and minimum indicators. Brake lights that wont turn off when you remove the key from the ignition will drain your car battery pretty quickly. for sure the symtoms of a bad batt and a brake pedal that needs to be lubed. Fortunately, this is a fairly common problem with various Harley models, so diagnosis and repair of the failed component(s) is well documented. Normally, the ECU turns on a relay letting the relay contacts supply the 12 volts. 2) Confirm rear caliper moves freely-system will detect brake drag, however slight it may be. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. If anyone can help that would be great.A guy told me the other day that my brake light wasn't working while at a stop light.I got home and the problem is the brake light stays on and dosn't shut off.I replaced the rear light ( original from 03 ) and lubed the front leaver with teflon spray and lubed the rear pedal mechanism with spray and work in still nothing.Anything would help.Thanks Rodger ABS light on? Just be careful some plastics really don't like that stuff 07 C50- SOLDA few bikes in between99 Royal Star Venture-current. This is the most obvious reason your brake lights wont go off. If no luck, then you may be dealing with a non-working spring, a faulty switch, or a short in the brake circuit wiring. Even the smallest amount of debris can lead to trouble. This article applies to Harley Davidson Touring models. If the brake light on your Harley Touring model is stuck on or flickering, this article will focus on several issues that could be causing the problem. Theres also a brake pedal stopper in play that needs your attention. If you dont have an available service manual, revert to the manufacturers website for diagrams and steps. Changed out rear brake - Answered by a verified Motorcycle Mechanic. Noticed it when I was parking the bike. Harley owners may notice that the brake light comes on even when the brakes are not applied. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, which supports our community. The number of times you pump your brake while driving and wear and tear can take a toll on your brake lights. If your brake lights are stuck on, it means that the drivers behind you wont be able to see when youre braking, which could lead to some serious accidents. Take some WD-40 and spray the switch plunger and . The switch for your brake pedal should be found under the dash, right by the pedal. If you install a light bulb with one circuit in a socket for two circuits, it can short the circuit, and it will cause the brake lights to come on. Last night I noticed that my brake light stays on all the time. Rear Brake light stays on. If the switch is damaged, replace the switch and make sure the master cylinder assembly is properly aligned with the switch housing when reassembled. 100 ultra-bright LEDs are grouped into four panels or arrangements on the left and right edges and top and bottom center, presented in a unique eye-catching design. Additionally, you dont know what else is wrong that could potentially leave you without brakes if not repaired. Certified Automotive Diagnostic Technician. Please read the whole thing before jumping to conclusions. Why Won't Flashing Turn Signals Work? Loosen the adjustment nut from the mounting plate with a wrench. A relay is an electronic switch triggered by the front or rear brake light switch, which sends power directly from the battery to the brake light bulb. 1600 Kawasaki Classic. Otherwise, it continues to look like you are braking because you are. Mar 15, 2005. Aug 1, 2004. Come join the discussion about performance, modifications, troubleshooting, builds, maintenance, classifieds and more! While some issues are simple to assess and fix, others occur due to unkempt car parts. Disappointing yes realistically absolutely. My brake light has been sticking because the switch is all dirty so I show you how to take it off and clean it------------------ FOLLOW US ON INSTA! check the light with the switch in and out. If there is an issue with the braking systems wiring, the lights might act unusually. Here's how to fix it. This means we have a greater presence on dual carriageways and highways (and everything in between) and as such we must all do our part to maintain and maintain a distinct presence on those same roads. Fortunately, with some basic mechanical and automotive electrical knowledge, you should be able to diagnose the problem with a multimeter fairly easily. Lets look at each defective brake light symptom in-depth. In some cases, a stuck brake light is caused not by an electrical fault. Low levels of brake fluid affect your vehicles braking performance and brake light function. First, remove the Hazard Lighting fuse (10 amp) and see if the brake lights go off. You will know that you have located the feed wire for the brake switch if the test light illuminates or your voltmeter reads 12V. The rear switch is hydraulic pressure-operated and, being close to the exhaust system, can fail in a variety of ways. Brake lights (or taillights) are one of the most important components of an automobile. I'll post the end of the story when it happens. You can find and fix basic electrical problems at home. While not as common, a faulty brake light relay can cause constant brake light illumination. When I want to read a really good Harley thread, I just turn to VolusiaRiders.com. Materials Needed Digital multimeter Torx sockets 1/4" drive ratchet and extension Adjustable wrench Step 1 - Check brake light switch If you bend the rear brake petal too far it will move too far away from the switch, allowing the brake light to stay on regardless of brake lever or pedal condition. Bad switch? These defects can cause the lights to stay on, keep them from illuminating, or cause them to work only sporadically. The brake is a free smart brake light style hardened plastic housing with a little 3M VHB glue that sticks securely to the back of the hood. (This is why the switch is on the black wires). It may not display this or other websites correctly. Will brake lights that stay on drain the battery? As simple as it sounds, check the brake light bulb for internal damage. Putting on eye protection is highly recommended as you go about locating your brake pedal switch, disconnecting the wiring pigtail, and inspecting it for damage. I have a 99 gsxr 750 I gust installed a under tail kit with led turn signals and brake lights. Fortunately, we have our own security toolbox in addition to our education, training and experience. It is a "fail safe" system, meaning that almost any failure of the brake system will leave the brake lights in the "on" state Here's a description of how the brake lights work on a 2nd Gens: ^^^^^ Oh you Gen II guys (and now Gen III guy). Brake Free Technology is a small team of bikers with a love and passion for all things motorcycles. Definately get into the rear brake setup - lube the pedal shaft & adjust the rear brake switch - easy to do. 4) Check that the connectors at the ABS ECM are clean and tight. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. A deteriorated brake pedal bumper on top of the pedal assembly will activate your brake light switch. Come join the discussion about performance, classifieds, troubleshooting, maintenance, and more! Motorcycle. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, which supports our community. One way to check is to disconnect the wire in the harness to the switch. Ensuring, Read More 12 No Oil in Car Symptoms to Look Out ForContinue, With the growing knowledge of engine oil products, their properties, and the like, it is no wonder comparing top brands, and pleasing choosy consumers have, Read More Castrol vs Mobil 1: Which is Better?Continue, Every vehicle owner can agree that dealing with water in the gas tank is troublesome. If youre experiencing brake light problems, a quick overdrive of the brake circuit can often identify the fault. Fixed it, sort of. It may be due to a defective rubber stopper or debris/corrosion between the brake switch and pedal. Does the rear brake switch function the light correctly ? remove the red and orange wires from the rear brake light switch. Only one of the two wires attached to the brake light switch should render this result. Then locate the negative terminal and disconnect it. Content on ducatimonster.org is generated by its users. Your car brakes are meant to keep you from getting into an accident. Dont lose the mounting hardware, as you will need to reuse it when installing the new switch. :devil. If the end is worn down, again, it will not turn off. A desire to share this passion by creating beautiful and high performance products for our peers. Press and release the brake pedal and test if the brake lights are turning off and on. You might be able to see it, but if you cant see it or its not visible, the bubble of security can collapse at any moment. Then replaced the relay. I have had mine short out and keep the rear brake light on. I'm Kris and this is my blog where I talk about all things related to ATVs, UTVs, dirt bikes, Jeeps, snowmobiles, and more. The rear brake light also proved troublesome, even forcing Harley to recall one Touring model for failure. The goal is to provide a product that riders want and are proud to wear on their helmet, that should be simple to use, simple to install and go a long way in increasing the visibility or visibility of the motorcycle/rider. If the brake rods have been changed or the master cylinder replaced, it is easy for the sensitive switch to become damaged or damaged and remain in place even when the brake is released, causing the brake light to remain on. This might be the most complicated cause to troubleshoot and shouldnt be looked at until the other possible sources have been ruled out. I'm having the same problem where's the sensor?? Thanks again, and shane thanks for the curb side help!, Brake light stays on - not the common problems, Wont start in neutral with side stand down 2008 Model. So I'm guessing the controller went bad. Brake switch is normally open (open contacts when the brake is released) The contacts close when the brakes are in use. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, which supports our community. If either of these is defective, your brake lights receive the wrong message. I had an '04 1500 that was really good at collecting gunk at the rear brake pedal switch. The brake lights are fed from another fuse but it's possible there is a short circuit somewhere in the rear lighting fixture or its associated wiring which might erroneously power the brake lights from the parking lights circuit. If I got this wrong, by all means please say so. As with the brake light relay, bulb replacement is quick as well as easy and may just solve the problem. Magnus is the owner and main author of Mechanicbase. Get some plastic safe electrical contact cleaner & spray up inside the rear brake switch while stepping on the pedal several times. Additionally, the cruise control system uses a brake light that may not work if the switch is stuck in the position. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Most bikers own and use these tools sometimes theyre physical things, sometimes theyre different, but we use them. Steve Ask Your Own Motorcycle Question A brake socket is an affordable part to buy and is straightforward to install. Plugged in front brake lever connector, brake lite works normal, plug in rear brake connector and brake lite works normal. Its actually not safe to drive a car with the brake light on, even though it may seem like it would be fine. The lights warn others that your vehicle is slowing down. The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. There are many parts of the braking system that can get corroded or covered with debris. Fortunately, this is a fairly common problem with various Harley models, so diagnosis and repair of the failed component(s) is well documented. Pennzoil vs. Mobil 1 Oil: Differences & Which Is Better? The switch on the front brake lever on my Intruder will sometimes retain water after I wash the bike or in heavy rain, causing this same problem. This article applies to the Harley Davidson Harley Davidson Sportster Brake Diagnostics Guide I pull the plunger. Harley suggests testing the relay circuit with a digital multimeter, but a simple test light will work, too. This article Harley Davidson Touring Electrical Diagnostic Guide If we are not part of the visual solution ourselves, using PPE or high visibility PPE helmets or outers helps get people/vehicles off the road. Regardless of the problem, the basic steps are the same. You dont want to take chances with the braking system, even if it is only an issue with the light. The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. Whether you have a turbo-charged, fuel-injected wheeler, or, Read More How to Know if Temp Gauge Is Bad (9 Symptoms)Continue. This rail is located in the combo box behind the left saddlebag. Connect one-on-one with {0} who will answer your question. 2009 Ram TRX4 third brake light on when trick is off, rear brake lights on when trick is on. If you recently replaced the rear light bulbs when this happened, you may have installed the wrong bulbs. https://www.instagram.com/moto.bob/------------------OUR GEAR Spada Arc Helmet http://amzn.to/2dJ8Xfz HJC CL-Y Helmet http://amzn.to/2e92FnR Bering Raven Gloves http://amzn.to/2dc8ZbW Rev'it Mohawk Boots http://amzn.to/2dvRwfJ Sena SMH5 Bluetooth Intercom http://amzn.to/2dJ8Dxm Givi WP405 Saddle Bags http://amzn.to/2e5s2uS Givi EA106B Tank Bag http://amzn.to/2dVXXKy GoPro HERO5 Black http://amzn.to/2e15YwN Nikon D3300 http://amzn.to/2e93ZXL------------------ It can also be caused by a broken brake pedal or a fault in the electrical system. Also make sure the brake light is really on and not just your running light, your brake lights may not be working at all, they fail pretty easily it seems. Get some plastic safe electrical contact cleaner & spray up inside the rear brake switch while stepping on the pedal several times. JavaScript is disabled. It works perfectly. Jun 23, 2015. . I've never run into that situation: where a dealership or sales people know more about the product than the manufacturer or designers. This problem is usually found in the switch housing on the right side where the front brake switch is located. The next thing you will need to look at is the wires attached to the switch. This completes the brake lights circuit in your vehicles electrical system and needs to be replaced if found defective. JavaScript is disabled. If your brake lights stay on even if you shut off your car, there are several possible reasons. You can use a pair of needle nose pliers to unhook the spring and replace it. If the brake lever has been changed out or the master cylinder replaced, it is easy for the delicate switch to become damaged or misaligned and remain in the on position, even when the brakes are released, thus causing the brake light to stay on. Although not as common, a faulty brake light switch can cause the brake light to come on. R1200R. VerticalScope Inc., 111 Peter Street, Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada. Thank you folks for replies. Check brake lines and connections. any help would be appreciated, thanks. Last night I rode 10 miles to the hardware store again no issues . Register today and take advantage of membership benefits. Here are steps on how to replace it: In summary, here are 12 ways on how to fix stuck brake lights: The next time anyone asks you, Why are my brake lights stuck on? you should be able to assist them with where and what to inspect. A temporary fix for this is to detach your battery while your vehicle is off when you encounter this issue. For what it does and how it does it, Brakeless costs $169.99. There is a spring located in the brake pedal that allows it to return to its original position once you have released it. You also need to remove the brake switch from the brake pedal linkage. Most common problem if your brake lights wont turn off on your car ,. While its not usually a mechanical failure that prevents you from riding, a constantly flashing brake light can be a serious safety hazard as it signals other vehicles when youre slowing down. Verify that the flat portion of the switch bumper is facing the rear of the vehicle. Once done with the wires, inspect the switchs alignment and confirm that a depressed brake pedal activates the switchs plunger. He lit the bike up with his flashlight as I fixed the light. Inspecting the electrical connections and testing functionality of the switch with a test light can indicate if a replacement switch is needed. When there is a fault in the electrical system, it can affect numerous components, including the brake lights. The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. If you have a service manual, you can follow the steps to check the wiring and connections. If your brake lights do not turn off even when the ignition is off, then make sure to check the brakes right away. My Gen I and some others that I have followed during EOM and NERDS rides have had their brake lights stuck on without the ABS light flashing. Figure 1. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Good news. Here are common ways to fix brake lights that stay on: This article lists the most common fixes to stuck brake lights. Now they're scratching their heads. Yes. But when stuck, these lights defeat their purpose as a safety feature and potentially put you and others in danger. Ask an Expert Car Questions Motorcycle Questions Steve, Motorcycle Mechanic 8,224 Satisfied Customers 30+ yrs. A hand or socket wrench can loosen the nut securing the ground cable to the battery terminal. Motorcycle Brake Light Stays On Sticky brake lights are a real nuisance and can be a safety hazard. Thanks so much for this info, I have passed it on to the dealer. Harley brake light stays on when lever is not pressed. problem. You can't tell the difference when you apply the brakes in the daytime, but at night it's not too hard to detect the subtle difference in brightness. It also covers how to replace your brake light switch and bumper, should there be a need. Below are the things you will need: Below are steps on how to determine whether a faulty brake light switch is what is causing your brake lights to stay on: Find the brake light switch under the dashboard near the top of the brake pedal. Brake Pedal Goes to Floor? Brake lights warn other vehicles behind you when you are about to slow down or stop. Is it safe to drive a car with the brake light on? I have checked the wires for anything obvious, also when you put the key in the park postion the rear. Notshy XRP 57K views 9 years ago How to Wire Motorcycle LED Lights Classic Octane 597K views 5 years ago Harley-Davidson Brake. The expectation is that the stoplight switch is aligned with the arm and pushed to shut the brake lights off. Motorcycle Mechanic: Chris If your brake fluid level is good, and you are sure the brake pedal is all the way up, then your switch may be bad, and causing the light to stay on. Well at least you found the problem. Lead, or follow, but just stay out of my way. Harley owners occasionally find that their brake light is continuously illuminated even without applying the brakes. Not only are these lights confusing to other drivers, but you could be putting excessive wear on your brake pads or rotors. Perform a quick check of the brake lights, pedal and lines in between to ensure nothing has been affected by corrosion, leaves, dirt or other contaminants. While its extremely dangerous to drive with brake lights that dont come on, its just as scary having a set that is stuck on. Disconnect the wiring harness by pressing the locking tab and pulling the harness away from the brake light switch. Installing this unit is simple. Among the most common causes of brake light problems is a burnt-out bulb. How to fix a motorcycle tail light that stays on for free. A two fer one. The relay is an electronic switch that activates the front or rear brake lights and sends power directly from the battery to the brake lights. If you break the harness release by accident, you can use electric tape to hold the pigtail in place during reassembly. Spotting these crumbs points to a deteriorated bumper due to heat and age, confirming it as the cause of the problem. Brake light sensors are an inexpensive part that may need adjusted, as you may find out when your lights won't turn off. If the brake light switch shorts internally it may cause the brake lights to stay illuminated, even when the pedal is not being pressed. If you are experiencing a brake light problem, a quick once over of the brake circuit will often identify the fault. That was an air/fuel ratio issue. I disconnected the run/turn/brake controller and connected the harness as orginal. It also accounts for barometric pressure, altitude, and, Read More 10 Bad O2 Sensor Symptoms (What to Look Out For)Continue, Running errands in the cold cannot be helped and is not a big deal for most. We are practically invisible on the road most of the time and after 50+ years on the road that fact is paramount when riding a motorcycle. When the switch is NOT engaged, the light will come on when it is, the light is off. If the brake light on your Harley Touring model is stuck on or flickering, this article will focus on several issues that could be causing the problem. wBW Product Review: Comagination VisiStop Brake Light Flasher. If the switches test good, and there is still voltage coming out of the relay, this indicates the relay itself is bad. Make sure the switch is adjusted (can be moved in or out) so that it is released when the brake is released. I have a 82 R100 and the brake light stays on all the time. click on, click off. 1600 Kawasaki Classic. A missing bumper will do the same. Road Runner, MyinfoPie, Banggood, HDForums However, if your cleaning does not fix the problem, then perhaps professional servicing and upkeep will. If you dont have the knowledge, contact a mechanic as soon as possible to get it fixed! The brake lights are not on when I leave the vehicle but sometimes are on when I return. Paint, 44 tooth rear, Corbin seat, Stage 2 jet kit, Strati Pipes, and Stripes! There was no burning so they did #1. This switch is typically attached to the pedals arm via a bracket with two wires attached to it. At the bottom of the list of suspects would be a relay with stuck contacts. If this happens when I park at night it drains the battery. (14 Reasons)Continue, Engine oil is essentially the lifeblood of your vehicle. The most common reason why your brake lights stay on is due to a faulty brake light switch or sensor. Light was still on. When the front brake light switch malfunctioned the last time, did you have everything re assembled? A forum community dedicated to Suzuki Volusia and Boulevard C50 motorcycle owners and enthusiasts. When I depress the front switch, the brake light comes on. 10 Bad O2 Sensor Symptoms (What to Look Out For), Why Is My Car Heater Not Getting Hot Enough? First, you need to create a vacuum in the braking system you can achieve this with your vehicle running. Whats even worse than having a bad spring in the pedal is having a defective pedal itself. Are your haywire turn signals keeping you up at night? If you find it intact, you might be able to reattach it. GENII bikes lose the light right after ignition on, unless there's a problem. The problem is usually found in the right handlebar switch housing where the front brake switch is located. Don't Delete, man. To find the brake light switch follow that wire, or just look around on the lever. Here are a few steps to follow. 100 super bright LEDs (two peripheral and two central panels) and two sensors together with two software provide a truly autonomous device with real footage. That's mainly the problem Ask an Expert Car Questions Motorcycle Questions Brake light stays on, battery drains fast even ignition is TIMOTO, Motorcycle Mechanic 1,338 Satisfied Customers Motorcycle Mechanic: Steve, Motorcycle Mechanic replied 11 years ago thank you. This is the most complicated option and should be looked at last. With the idea that motorcycle safety (see above) doesnt come at the expense of style, and accommodates both performance and style, the company brought the first prototype to market in April 2014. No shorts were found. Some people choose to skip this testing process and choose to switch to a newer or better known transmission because it is simpler or cheaper. Dont get me wrong, its not bad any increase has to be good these days. Similarly, a stuck wire will keep the lights on. Check the rear brake sensor, it may be stuck. Turned out to be a bad connection. The reverse gear is powered by hydraulic pressure, and due to its proximity to the exhaust system, it can fail in a number of ways. Click this article to find out why. JavaScript is disabled. :wayhappy: I had a similar problem with a Kisan Signal minder on C50 but it was the turn signals. Actuation of the switch is achieved through the interaction of the brake lever / master cylinder assembly and the light switch. Two outcomes will occur when this happens either the brake lights are stuck on or not working. A forum community dedicated to Ducati Monster owners and enthusiasts. Are your rear lights malfunctioning? Additionally, the cruise control system uses the brake light switch and may not work if the switch is stuck in the on position. -USB charging port (and possible firmware update) and one control button on top. Jan 13, 2023 (Edited) Brake switch is normally open (open contacts when the brake is released) The contacts close when the brakes are in use. Your ohm meter is your friend! This invisibility is largely due to our smaller physical footprint, which means less presence, but why? Plug the wiring harness into the new stoplight switch until the locking tab clicks into place.