Upgrading your Harley-Davidson’s turn signals to LEDs is one of the best ways to improve safety, visibility, and modern style. LEDs are brighter, draw less power, and last far longer than stock incandescent bulbs — but installation can confuse some riders, especially when it comes to fixing “hyperflash.”
This step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to install LED turn signals on a Harley-Davidson — including the tools you need, wiring basics, and how to make your new LEDs work perfectly.
💡 Quick Answer: It’s Usually Plug-and-Play
Most modern LED turn signals for Harley-Davidson motorcycles — especially from brands like Eagle Lights — are plug-and-play. That means no cutting or splicing wires. You simply remove your old turn signal lens and bulb, plug in the new LED unit, and reinstall the lens.
However, some Harleys (especially pre-2014 models) may require a load equalizer or LED flasher relay to correct fast blinking (hyperflash).
🧰 Tools and Materials You’ll Need
- LED turn signal kit (front and rear)
- Load equalizer or LED flasher relay (if required)
- Flathead or Phillips screwdriver
- Allen wrenches (for some models)
- Soft cloth or gloves (to protect lenses and chrome)
- Electrical tape or zip ties (for wire management)
Pro Tip: Always choose DOT-approved LEDs like Eagle Lights for reliable performance and compliance.
⚙️ Step 1: Identify Your Harley’s Turn Signal Type
Harley-Davidson turn signal assemblies differ by model and year. Knowing what you have ensures compatibility:
- Bullet-style turn signals: Common on Softail, Dyna, and Touring models.
- Flat-style turn signals: Found on Sportster and Street models.
- Integrated rear turn signals: Often combined with brake and tail lights on newer bikes.
If you’re unsure, check your Harley’s owner manual or compare your existing lights with the LED replacements.
🔧 Step 2: Remove the Stock Turn Signal Lens and Bulb
Start by gently prying off the lens cover using a flathead screwdriver wrapped in a cloth (to protect paint and chrome).
- Insert the screwdriver into the small notch at the lens edge.
- Carefully twist and remove the lens cover.
- Pull out the stock incandescent bulb by twisting counterclockwise.
Inspect the socket for corrosion or dirt, and clean if needed before installing the new LED module.
💡 Step 3: Install the LED Turn Signal Module
Most Harley LED kits — like those from Eagle Lights — are designed to plug directly into your existing socket:
- Align the LED module’s pins with the socket slots.
- Insert and twist clockwise until it’s secure.
- Reconnect the lens cover and ensure it’s seated tightly.
If your LEDs are polarity-sensitive (work only one way), flip the plug 180 degrees if they don’t illuminate at first.
⚡ Step 4: Check for Hyperflash
After installation, test your turn signals:
- If they flash normally — you’re done!
- If they blink rapidly — your bike needs a load equalizer or LED flasher relay to correct the signal rate.
Why it happens: Harley’s stock system expects the higher current draw of incandescent bulbs. When LEDs draw less power, the system thinks a bulb is out — causing hyperflash.
🔋 Step 5: Install a Load Equalizer (If Needed)
If your LEDs flash too fast, install a load equalizer — a small resistor device that simulates the current draw of standard bulbs.
How to Install:
- Locate your rear fender wiring harness or signal module (usually under the seat).
- Plug the load equalizer inline with the signal wires according to the instructions.
- Secure it with zip ties away from moving parts or heat sources.
Pro Tip: Eagle Lights turn signal kits often include built-in load equalizers or relay compatibility, saving you time and wiring effort.
💡 Step 6: Test the Turn Signals and Hazards
Turn on your ignition and test both sides:
- ✅ Left and right turn signals blink evenly
- ✅ Hazard lights flash at a steady rate
- ✅ Running lights (if integrated) glow consistently
If one side doesn’t light, check the polarity and ensure all connectors are seated firmly.
🧠 Step 7: Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Hyperflashing | Low power draw from LEDs | Install load equalizer or LED relay |
| No turn signal function | Reversed polarity | Flip LED module or check wiring |
| One side flashes faster | Uneven load | Ensure both front and rear have LEDs or resistors |
| Warning indicator on dash | CAN-bus error | Use CAN-bus compatible LEDs or signal stabilizer |
Harleys with newer electronics (2014+) use a CAN-bus system — so using CAN-bus compatible LEDs like Eagle Lights CAN-bus kits prevents warning lights and flicker issues.
🌦️ Step 8: Secure and Protect the Installation
Once your LED signals are working properly:
- Bundle and secure extra wiring with zip ties.
- Keep wires away from moving parts and hot exhaust pipes.
- Seal connections with dielectric grease to prevent corrosion.
- Ensure lens gaskets are tight to keep moisture out.
Good sealing and wire management help your LEDs last for years without flickering or failure.
🚦 Optional Upgrade: Add Matching LED Brake and Tail Lights
For a complete lighting upgrade, pair your new turn signals with matching LED brake and tail lights. This improves visibility from every angle and gives your Harley a uniform, modern look.
Most riders choose Eagle Lights full LED conversion kits, which include headlights, turn signals, and tail lights engineered for plug-and-play compatibility with Harley models.
🧩 Harley Models and LED Compatibility
Here’s a quick compatibility overview for common Harley families:
| Harley Family | Years | LED Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| Sportster | 1992–2020 | Direct fit with optional load equalizer |
| Softail | 2000–Present | Plug-and-play (CAN-bus on 2018+ models) |
| Dyna | 1999–2017 | Plug-and-play with optional resistor |
| Touring (Street/Road Glide, Electra Glide) | 1996–Present | CAN-bus compatible LED kits recommended |
Always verify your bike’s year and connector style before ordering LEDs or equalizers.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)
Do I need a load equalizer for Harley LED turn signals?
Maybe. If your LEDs flash rapidly or inconsistently, a load equalizer or LED flasher relay will correct the issue. Many newer Harleys auto-detect LED loads without extra parts.
Are LED turn signals legal on Harleys?
Yes — as long as they’re DOT-approved. Eagle Lights LEDs meet or exceed DOT standards for brightness and visibility.
How long do Harley LED turn signals last?
Up to 50,000 hours — significantly longer than halogen bulbs, which last about 1,000 hours.
Do LED turn signals drain my battery?
No. LEDs draw much less power than stock bulbs, reducing strain on your charging system.
How hard is it to install LED turn signals?
Most installations are beginner-friendly and take 30–60 minutes with basic tools.
Can I install LED signals on a Harley without cutting wires?
Yes — choose plug-and-play kits from Eagle Lights that connect directly to your stock harness.
🏁 Final Thoughts: Upgrade for Safety and Style
Installing LED turn signals on your Harley is one of the simplest, most rewarding upgrades you can do. With brighter visibility, lower power consumption, and a sleek modern look, LEDs improve both safety and aesthetics.
Whether you ride a Sportster, Softail, or Road Glide, Eagle Lights LED turn signal kits make installation easy — no wiring headaches or hyperflash worries. Ride with confidence, knowing your Harley is built to be seen day or night.
Ride bright. Ride safe. Ride Harley.
