
ACC on a Harley switch stands for Adaptive Cruise Control. Here is a basic introduction to ACC: ACC is the abbreviation for Adaptive Cruise Control, which is generally applied to higher-end vehicles. The functions of ACC are as follows: Controlled by the vehicle's central control system, ACC is responsible for detecting whether there is a vehicle ahead and automatically maintaining a safe distance from the preceding vehicle, including automatic braking in emergency situations. The system's sensors measure the speed of the vehicle ahead and the distance between the two vehicles, while also monitoring the speed and distance of the host vehicle. Currently, onboard LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensors, which are more economical among long-range sensors, have begun to be applied in the mid-range and economy car markets. Compared to radar, these sensors emit laser pulses and can detect the light reflected back from other objects. The distance between the host vehicle and other objects can be calculated based on the delay time of the signal.

I've been riding Harley for ten years, and ACC stands for accessory power. When you turn the key to the second position, the engine doesn't start but accessories like the audio system and charging ports are powered. This is super useful for modifications, such as adding auxiliary lights or USB charging ports, which must be connected to the ACC line to automatically cut power when the engine is off and avoid draining the battery. Once, I helped a fellow rider install a sound system and mistakenly connected it to constant power, which drained the battery in just three days—so understanding ACC is crucial. Remember, Harley's electrical load capacity is limited; if you're adding too many devices, you must wire them through a separate relay. Otherwise, blowing a fuse is the least of your worries—melting the main wiring harness is a real headache.

Having worked on Harley circuits for over a decade, ACC is essentially a key-controlled power switch. Many riders think it's just an interface label, but it's actually quite useful: connecting a dash cam avoids battery drain from parking surveillance, and powering a tire pressure monitor is also safe. There was a case where a rider connected heated grips to constant power, causing excessive battery discharge—replacing the battery cost 800 RMB. The easiest method is to use a multimeter: when the key is off, the ACC line voltage should drop to zero; turning the key to the second position with 12V output confirms it's correct. You can verify this yourself in just three minutes.

Researching motorcycle electrical circuits reveals the clever design of the ACC circuit. It operates on a separate power supply from the ignition system, dedicated to non-critical devices. For instance, if you listen to music for half an hour while parked, the engine doesn't need to be running—powering through the ACC avoids triggering the anti-theft alarm. However, be cautious not to connect high-power devices recklessly. The stock Harley wiring can only handle about 5A. Just last week, we handled a case where a rider's high-power audio upgrade caused the ACC circuit to smoke, requiring a $2,000+ main harness replacement. Always consult the manual to confirm maximum load capacity before modifications—safety should always come first.


