Is your Harley Davidson bike’s brake light not working? It could be a problem with the brake light switch. This article will help you diagnose and fix the problem, so you can ride safely again. Harley Davidson bikes are known for their reliability, but even the best machines can break down from time to time. One common problem is a brake light switch that fails to activate.
This can be a serious safety hazard, as it means that other drivers may not be able to see when you are braking. There are a few things that can cause a brake light switch to fail. One common problem is misalignment. If the switch is not properly aligned with the brake lever, it may not be able to activate. Another common problem is wear and tear. Over time, the switch can wear out and become less responsive. If you suspect that your Harley Davidson bike’s brake light switch is failing, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the problem.
First, check the alignment of the switch. If it is not properly aligned, adjust it so that it is centered in the brake lever housing. If the switch is properly aligned, try cleaning it. A dirty or corroded switch may not be able to make contact with the brake lever, preventing it from activating. To clean the switch, use a contact cleaner and a soft cloth. If the switch is clean and properly aligned, it may be worn out and need to be replaced. Replacing the brake light switch is a relatively simple task that can be done with basic tools.
Brake Light Switch
It is a small switch that is connected to the pedal mechanism that controls the brake light. Even though the brake light switch has small in size, it plays a critical part in the operation of a modern car, regardless of its size.
When the brake light switch doesn’t work properly, many vehicle features cannot operate, such as push-button start, antilock brakes, and other safety features.
As long as your brake light is not functioning properly, you are susceptible to a rear-end collision because the driver behind you won’t be able to tell when you are slowing down. It is also possible that you will get ticketed and have to pay fines if you do this. Whenever you drive on a public road with your brake lights not working properly, you are held liable for any damages you may incur as you have a responsibility to make sure they are working properly before driving.
- Durability: Brake light switches are designed to withstand harsh conditions, such as extreme temperatures, moisture, and vibration.
- Reliability: Brake light switches are typically very reliable, but they can fail over time.
- Ease of installation: Brake light switches are relatively easy to install, even for DIYers.
The following table provides additional information on the Brake Light Switch:
| Feature | Specification |
| Type | Two-position switch |
| Operating voltage | 12 volts |
| Current rating | 10 amps |
| Contact material | Copper alloy |
| Housing material | High-impact composite |
| Operating temperature range | -40°C to 85°C |
| Vibration resistance | 10 G |
| Humidity resistance | 100% |
Functions of the Brake Lamp Switch
The brake lamp switch of a Harley Davidson has two of its major functionalities as mentioned below:-
- The brake lamp switch is a simple electrical switch that completes a circuit when the brake pedal is pressed.
- This circuit sends power to the brake lights, cruise control system, ABS system, and gear selector interlock.
- When the brake pedal is released, the circuit is broken and the brake lights turn off, cruise control is re-enabled, ABS is deactivated, and the gear selector can be shifted out of park.
- A faulty brake lamp switch can cause a variety of problems, including:
- Brake lights not working
- Cruise control not working
- ABS not working
- Gear selector interlock not working
- If you suspect that your brake lamp switch is faulty, it is important to have it replaced immediately. This is a relatively inexpensive and easy repair that can help to prevent serious accidents.
Symptoms of a faulty brake light switch in Harley Davidson
Below mentioned some of the symptoms of a faulty brake light switch in Harley Davidson:
Brake lights won’t respond
There may be a fault in the electrical circuit inside the rear brake light switch if your brake lights remain on even when you are not pressing the brake pedal. Drivers behind you may become confused if your brake lights are constantly on because, even though you may be driving regularly, your taillight may give them the idea that you are about to slow down.
Additionally, if your rear brake light is left on all the time, it can quickly deplete your car’s battery and harm the brake lamp or bulb.
- Cruise control not working
- ABS not working
- Gear selector interlock not working
The following table provides additional information on the Brake lights won’t respond:
| Feature | Specification |
| Type | Electrical switch |
| Activation | Pressing the brake pedal |
| Function | Completes a circuit to activate the brake lights, cruise control system, ABS system, and gear selector interlock |
Sudden fault in cruise control
If your Harley Davidson has cruise control, a broken or misplaced brake light switch might turn it off. This does not imply that the brake light switch issue is the only reason the cruise control malfunctions. A blown fuse in the electronic control module or a malfunctioning speed sensor might also cause it to occur.
The next time you have a malfunction with your cruise control, make sure your brake light switch is also inspected by your mechanic. Symptoms of a Faulty Brake Light Switch:
- Brake lights not working
- Cruise control not working
- ABS not working
- Gear selector interlock not working
The following table provides additional information on the Brake Light Switch:
| Feature | Specification |
| Type | Electrical switch |
| Voltage | 12V |
| Current | 10A |
| Operating temperature | -40°C to 85°C |
It is important to have a faulty brake light switch replaced immediately, as it can pose a serious safety hazard.
Suddenly the warning light turns on
There may be a problem with the anti-lock braking system or the brake light switch of your Harley Davidson if you notice the ABS light on your dashboard going on.
As soon as your car’s ABS module detects that you’ve applied the brakes, the brake light switch sensor starts up the ABS hydraulic pump and sends the signal to the ABS module that the brakes have been applied. Your faulty brake light switch is likely responsible for the ABS warning light appearing if your ABS light comes on.
- It disables the cruise control system when the brake pedal is pressed.
- It activates the anti-lock braking system (ABS) when the brake pedal is rapidly pressed.
- It prevents the gear selector from being shifted out of park without the brake pedal pressed.
| Feature | Specification |
| Type | Electrical switch |
| Activation | Brake pedal pressed |
| Functions | Activates brake lights, disables cruise control, activates ABS, prevents gear selector from being shifted out of park without brake pedal pressed |
| Symptoms of failure | Brake lights not working, cruise control not working, ABS not working, gear selector interlock not working, warning light suddenly turns on |
Starting issue
Oftentimes, when your vehicle does not start, it could be because your brake light switch is not sending a signal to the computer that confirms that the brakes are engaged, resulting in the vehicle not being able to start.
The simple solution for you is to get in touch with a car service or mechanic as soon as possible to have your brake light switch replaced.
- Starting issues: If your Harley Davidson motorcycle is having trouble starting, it could be due to a faulty brake light switch. The switch is responsible for completing the circuit that allows the starter motor to engage. If the switch is faulty, the starter motor may not be able to engage, preventing the motorcycle from starting.
- Cruise control not working: The brake light switch is also responsible for disabling cruise control when the brake pedal is pressed. If your cruise control is not working, it could be due to a faulty brake light switch.
- Gear selector interlock not working: The brake light switch is also responsible for preventing the gear selector from being shifted out of park without the brake pedal pressed. If your gear selector interlock is not working, it could be due to a faulty brake light switch.
The following table provides additional information on the VRSCR Street V Rod:
| Feature | Specification |
| Type | Electrical switch |
| Function | Activates brake lights, disables cruise control, activates ABS, and prevents gear selector from being shifted out of park |
| Location | On the front or rear brake lever housing |
| Voltage | 12 volts |
| Current | 10 amps |
If you suspect that your Harley Davidson motorcycle has a faulty brake light switch, it is important to have it inspected and replaced by a qualified mechanic.
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Brake Light Switch Fails in Harley Davidson
Issues
Almost 300,000 Harley-Davidson motorcycles which have been manufactured between 2008-10 have recently been recalled by the company in order to solve a problem with the switch that can cause the failure of the brake lights and possibly even cause brake failure themselves on some models.
Some of Harley’s famous motorcycle models lost the ability to use the rear brakes of their famous bikes due to a problem with the brake switch on their rear brakes, and Harley started investigating the issue.
Apparently, officials believe that the exhaust system may be exposing the rear brake switch to excessive heat that causes it to malfunction. It is possible that the rear brake light will not illuminate if this occurs. Moreover, there is also the possibility that the rear brake system could leak fluid, which could lead to the failure of the brakes.
- Harley Davidson brake light switches are designed to withstand the rigors of motorcycle riding, including vibration, extreme temperatures, and exposure to the elements.
- Many Harley Davidson brake light switches are also self-adjusting, ensuring that they always make contact with the brake lever or pedal.
- Some Harley Davidson brake light switches also incorporate additional features, such as cruise control and ABS deactivation.
The following table provides additional information on the VRSCF V Rod Muscle:
| Feature | Specification |
| Type | Electrical switch |
| Function | Activates the brake lights when the brake lever or pedal is pressed |
| Location | On the brake lever or pedal housing |
| Voltage | 12V |
| Current rating | 10A |
| Operating temperature range | -40°C to +85°C |
| Durability rating | 100,000 cycles |
Brake light switch failure is a common problem in Harley Davidson motorcycles, but it is one that is easily preventable. By regularly inspecting and replacing your brake light switch, you can ensure that your motorcycle is always safe to ride.
Solutions
The Harley-Davidson company has agreed to replace the brake light switch in the affected models free of charge, but it is unclear what measures will be taken to prevent the same problem from occurring again in the future.
- Inspect the brake light switch for damage or misalignment. If the switch is damaged, it will need to be replaced. If the switch is misaligned, it can be adjusted so that it is centered in the brake lever housing.
- Clean the brake light switch contacts. A dirty or corroded switch may not be able to make contact with the brake lever, preventing it from activating. To clean the switch, use a contact cleaner and a soft cloth.
- Replace the brake light switch if it is worn out or damaged. Replacing the brake light switch is a relatively simple task that can be done with basic tools.
A failed brake light switch in a Harley Davidson can cause a number of safety problems. If you suspect that your brake light switch is failing, have it inspected and replaced immediately.
You can check the price on the internet.
Examining the faulty brake light switch
If you suspect that your brake light switch is faulty, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the problem:
- Check the brake lights to make sure they are not working.
- Check the cruise control to make sure it is not working.
- Check the ABS system to make sure it is not working.
- Check the gear selector interlock to make sure it is not working.
Once you have the necessary tools and materials, follow these steps to replace the switch:
- Locate the brake light switch. It is usually located on the front or rear brake lever housing.
- Disconnect the electrical connector from the switch.
- Use a wrench or socket to loosen the nut that secures the switch to the brake lever housing.
- Remove the switch from the housing.
- Install the new switch in the housing and tighten the nut.
- Reconnect the electrical connector to the switch.
- Test the brake light to make sure it is working properly.
If you are not comfortable replacing the brake light switch yourself, take your motorcycle to a qualified mechanic.
Replacing the Brake Lamp switch
At the point where the brake pedal connects with the brake switch, the brake switch is mounted on the underside, in contact with the bottom of the brake pedal. The brake sensor can be found under the brake pedal, which is located above the floor mat if you lean over the mat.
Brake switches can be clipped into their housings or screwed into place. After removing the brake switch from its place, the socket is removed, and then a new brake switch is seated in the socket with the appropriate specifications. Let’s see the replacement steps:
- Locate the brake light switch. It is usually located on the front or rear brake lever housing.
- Disconnect the electrical connector from the switch.
- Use a wrench or socket to loosen the nut that secures the switch to the brake lever housing.
- Remove the switch from the housing.
- Install the new switch in the housing and tighten the nut.
- Reconnect the electrical connector to the switch.
- Test the brake light to make sure it is working properly.
Replacing a Harley Davidson brake light switch is a relatively simple task that can be done with basic tools. By following the steps above, you can ensure that your brake lights are working properly and that you are riding safely.
