Is the license plate light supposed to come on, on a 2017 ZX-14R, when the ignition is turned "on", but the engine is not yet started?

I'm asking because I installed a Chinese LED license plate light on my ZX-14R. Despite trying to connect it first red-to-red and black-to black, and then reversing the polarity (in case the LED harness had been reverse wired in error), it does not light up either way, when the ignition key is turned on.

I know the headlights are not supposed to light up until the engine is started, but I notice that the taillight DOES come on when the ignition is turned on, before the engine is started.

Did I just get a defective LED light?

Jim G

sounds like you may have one of the wires hooked to something else?IDK.

No, I positively have the correct connections. The LED end of the harness was factory sealed to the LED. The other end of the wires went to the correct license plate connector.

IS the license plate light supposed to come on wehn theignition is turned on, even though the engine is not started yet?

Jim G

Yes, driving, tail, and license plate light comes on with key in the 'on' position.

* Last updated by: Eray on 2/10/2019 @ 6:51 AM *

Must be a bad LED then. :(

I'll see if I can get the vendor to send another LED light.

Unfortunately, the way this specific license plaate mount and light are set up, replacing the LED will require taking off and then dismantling the entire multi-piece fender eliminator. What a pain.

Jim G

My Gen 1 tag light comes on with ignition ON, engine not running. Pics in my LED Tag Light tutorial. I'd just give that a try. If you can find a 45° LED light bolt, it will work perfect. Heat up some 1/8" aluminum and bend it to make brackets or buy some steel L brackets and bend. The Gen1 mudflap holes match the spacing of license plate holes perfectly.

Yes, that's the backup option.

Jim G

The vendor emailed me this morning that a replacement LED is enroute to me already.

I'll test it off the bike with a 12 volt battery connection to it BEFORE I attempt to install it. :)

Jim G

* Last updated by: JimGnitecki on 2/11/2019 @ 1:06 PM *