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[jamescode3]

For the last month or so my engine light has been coming on. Took it to HD and was told the code was just saying the headlight was unplugged. This has happened three times now and tonight I noticed my hi beam is not always on anymore. The high beam works when I flip the switch so it's not the bulb. I know on my bike (2007 FLHTCUSE2) both hi and low stay lighted. Any ideas what may cause this issue or has anyone had this problem.

[Twolanerider]

For the last month or so my engine light has been coming on. Took it to HD and was told the code was just saying the headlight was unplugged. This has happened three times now and tonight I noticed my hi beam is not always on anymore. The high beam works when I flip the switch so it's not the bulb. I know on my bike (2007 FLHTCUSE2) both hi and low stay lighted. Any ideas what may cause this issue or has anyone had this problem.

I didn't know the headlight was monitored on the data bus.  Anyone know when that started?

[jamescode3]

The engine light does not stay on but it just appears for a few after the bike starts up. I was told it the reason the light did that was to let you know a code was stored. When they read the code that is what they told me regarding the headlight.

[grc]

I just looked through the list of DTC's for 2010, and there is no code related to headlights.  There are body electrical codes related to turn signals and security features, but nothing I could find related to headlights.   Ask them exactly what code(s) they found, or just read the codes yourself.  There are instructions on this site on how you can do it easily using the display on your gauges.  Write down all codes, then clear them and see if they return.

Anyhow, if you have intermittent operation of the headlight it's probably time to do some basic diagnostic work, including wiggle testing, since it's likely you have a poor connection somewhere in that circuit.  Has the fairing been off recently?  If so, did the headlight get plugged in completely upon reassembly?  How about any handlebar changes or other wiring work?


Jerry

[Twolanerider]

I just looked through the list of DTC's for 2010, and there is no code related to headlights.  There are body electrical codes related to turn signals and security features, but nothing I could find related to headlights.

That's what I expected (and how it always had been).  Then found a list of current DTC codes this morning and found the same thing Jerry.  No error codes for headlights.  So a headlight still as always not on the data bus.  So, as too often the case, a Harley tech making it up as he goes to pacify a customer whom he assumes doesn't know any better?

[jamescode3]

Ok thanks I will look into it more and get the codes and let you know...

[jamescode3]

Gotta love this site...Ok I got the code and its P0117 which is ET Sensor Voltage Low EFI.  So what does this mean is it a big deal. I cleared the code and it didn t come back but this has been done three times in the past by the dealer. So is there a problem I should worry about.

[Dr.D]

That's what I expected (and how it always had been).  Then found a list of current DTC codes this morning and found the same thing Jerry.  No error codes for headlights.  So a headlight still as always not on the data bus.  So, as too often the case, a Harley tech making it up as he goes to pacify a customer whom he assumes doens't know any better?

I think this site is a great BS meter. I started a thread about steering wobble and front end bearings for this reason and have already gotten some good feedback.

[Twolanerider]

Gotta love this site...Ok I got the code and its P0117 which is ET Sensor Voltage Low EFI.  

ET is the engine temp sensor.  Which is (diagnostically) about as far from an unplugged headlight as my penis will always be from Charlize Theron.

The engine temp sensor is in the front head.  That's your place to start.  Remove, check and clean the connector, make sure the sensor is tight in the head or replace the sensor.  It's a part that doesn't fail often.  But it's a cheap and easy replacement if you just want to see if the change makes any difference.

[grc]

What Twolane said.  And yes, it is important.  If the engine temperature sensor isn't providing the correct information to the ECM, it affects many engine operating parameters like air fuel ratio, engine idle temperature management system operation, ignition timing, etc.  Since it's an intermittent thing so far, it's a good possibility it's a poor connection or damaged wire that only faults under certain circumstances.  And your dealership is obviously populated with morons, btw.  Keep that in mind for any future visits, or better yet find a better alternative.


Jerry