Harley Davidson Red Key Light Flashing [Proven Fixes]

Where Harley’s iconic heavy motorcycles are a definite depiction of over-engineering, the advanced security offers a level of safety and protection. This security system applies a basic Smart Security Module setup in Harley bikes.

The red key light flashes on to indicate that the security system is working properly. On starting the bike, this red key light goes off, showing that the security system is now disarmed after receiving the rider’s command.

Harley’s system ensures protection from theft and turns on when notice an abnormal motion. It goes off when the rider switches on the bike’s engine. Sometimes the red key light flashes on while riding and does not go off due to an internal issue.

What Does the Red Key Light Mean On a Harley Davidson?

The red key light on the Harley Davidson is associated with the bike’s security system. The key light turns red when turned on and indicates to resolve a specific internal issue.

This red key light is present on the dashboard, inside the trip odometer of Harley Davidson’s bikes. When the bike’s security system detects unauthorized access or a disturbance with the security system, it triggers the red key light to indicate that issue.

How Does the Red Key Light Work on a Harley?

A key fob switches on and off the main system. When coming within the range of the bike, this key fob emits a signal and the bike’s security system detects this signal.

When the bike’s security system fails to detect the key fob signal the red key light turns on to indicate trouble. In Harley models lacking this security system, this red light shows an issue with the bike’s brake light or other lighting system.

Though the red key light works like a Check Engine Light (CEL) of cars, it indicates multiple problems.

Harley bikes show a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) due to the Turn Signal Module (TSM) or Turn Signal Security Module (TSSM) both of which can be responsible for turning on the red key light.

In normal situations, the security system automatically disables upon starting the bike and the red key light turns off. However, when hitting a DTC, this light stays on.

This red light indicator is present in all Harley-Davidson models. Yet in some models, it is in the shape of a key, and others it is a small red dot. These are:

Red Key Light in 2013 Models

In 2013 and older models the red key light flashing depicts an issue with the bike’s LED lightning. When the bike’s computer system refuses to recognize the newly installed aftermarket LED light or the system detects a broken light bulb it turns on a red key light. This requires an owner to use a load resistor to turn off this light.

Red Key Light in 2014 Models

When the owner arms the security system of the 2014 or newer Harley Davidson models, the red light flashes and stays on showing an electrical, electrical or battery issue.

What Causes Red Light Key Flashing in Harley Davidson?

1. Defective Brake Switch

The brake switch activates the brake light when the rider presses the brake pedal. The defective brake switch not only affects the bike’s security system but also the on-and-off mechanism of the brake light, leading to red key light activation.

2. Dead Fob’s Battery

Harley Davidson bikes comprise a small electronic device called a fob to communicate with the bike’s security system and help start the bike. The low or dead fob’s battery alters the communication with the bike’s ECM and flashes on the red key light.

3. Malfunctioning ECU

The Electronic Control Unit manages various functions. The wear and tear, electrical system failure, and software glitches cause the ECU to malfunction and trigger the red key light. 

4. Faulty LED Lights

The damaged brake lights on Harley Davidson bikes flash red light on. Also, when the bike’s ECM refuses to recognize an aftermarket LED, it turns on the red key light.

Troubleshoot Harley Davidson Red Key Light Flashing

First of all, Inspect the bike’s security system regularly and fix minor faults right away. Then, you need to look into the following things to fix the red key light flashing issue.

Check the flashing pattern of the red key light. It is very important. If the turn signals flash left to right on a loop, it indicates a dead fob’s battery. Use the correct key fob and change its battery.

If the light does not flash but it’s consistent, it’s the bike’s diagnostic trouble code to initiate the light. Reset the bike’s computing by scanning the ECU to detect an error code to fix it.

When using an aftermarket LED light, ensure that the ECU detects it and uses a load equalizer to turn that additional aftermarket light added to the bike.

Inspect the brake switch. Check the wires and connections to the bike’s back brake light. Ensure that they all are functioning properly. Maintain and lubricate all the necessary parts.

How to Fix Harley Davidson Red Key Light Flashing?

The red key light disappears on starting the bike.

The red light’s refusal to disappear indicates that the bike security module has detected a DTC or any other electrical issue. If the light stays fully on while riding then scan it for trouble codes and inspect the LED lighting system.

1. Fixing Code Issues

Turn off the ignition, press and hold the control unit’s toggle button until it lights up. Now turn on the ignition and release the odometer reset button. The screen will show DIAG and the background warning lights will turn on. Seeing that, press the reset button again. 

A screen with PSSPt word will show different codes, each representing the different parts of the bike’s system. Grab the manual to see the list of diagnostic codes and troubleshoot the issue accordingly. You might need to visit a nearby dealership if you can’t handle it well.

2. Disarm the Security System

Disarming the security system will turn off the red key light. For this, Ignite the engine and use turn-signal buttons to signal right or left. Doing this, the screen will show the place to put your PIN code. Press the turn signal to choose the value of each code.

Enter the first number and then click the right turn signal button to move to the next empty cell. Enter the complete code and the press right-turn signal key. After finishing this process, turn off the bike. The deactivation process of Harley’s security is complete.

3. Check the Alarm System Module

Troubleshoot the alarm system module or AM to fix the red key light issue. You can access it through the back end of the seat compartment. You will require a spirit level to check if the AM is in its proper position. Place it on its top and it will show you if it’s right.

If they are not lined up in the middle lines then readjust them back to the proper position. After readjusting AM push down the tool gently on it to lock it in place. You need pretty stable hands to do it correctly. Otherwise, it will take you a couple of attempts.

4. Fix the Key Fob

Losing the key fob triggers the bike’s security and turns on the red key light. You need to get on the bike without triggering a red key light. The key fob comprises a 5 digit number that helps to lock or unlock the bike. Once you secure your PIN you can change these numbers.

Turn on the ignition and press and hold the throttle button. This will flash on the security light. Now press and hold the left-turn signal until a sign appears on the speedometer. Enter the correct PIN and the valid number will initiate a flashing light.

Now, just push this flashing button to start the bike without using the key fob.

5. Replace the Battery

Electrical or battery issues for the red key light flashing can be fixed by replacing the old and worn-out Harley Davidson battery with a new one. Because the battery used to go bad.

First, remove the compartment on top of the seat. Detach the cables from the battery and loosen the screws that are holding the battery.

Clean the area with an electronic cleaning spray. Put the new battery by connecting the positive and then to the negative cable. After that, fix back all the screws to the battery.

6. Check Bike’s Wirings

Faulty wirings are associated with initiating the bike’s alarm system. Therefore check the wires from the alarm sensor located near the handlebars.

Inspect the signs of damage or detached wires from the locking clamps. Fix them if necessary. Use a flathead screwdriver to reposition the loosened wires.