Red lights flashing on dash? Is this normal?

[Timini]

JusT picked up my smart today... Had a great day getting used to it and just love it.. but tonight when I parked it and set the alarm the lights came on then went off.. then i noticed the dash light near the speedo on then it went off.. but the two red flashing lights on the panel below the radio keep flashing back and forth... I assume this is the Smart Alarm in protection mode????? Will this drain my battery??? I just don't want to wake to a dead battery!! Has anyone else seen these on thier smarts?

Aloha, Tim

[NCC1701]

Yep, normal for an armed alarm.
Since you've got a 2009, you won't want to leave Auto headlights nor Auto Wipers turned on though ... they have drained some batteries.

Oh, and welcome aboard!!

[SuperGeek]

Tim, a simple LED won't drain your battery much at all. The car's electronics are designed to let it sit in a parking lot for a week or more without any problems.

Unless there's a bug like we've seen reported with the auto wiper/headlights on some cars, but if you just picked yours up you probably don't have that option, and if you do the dealer should have known about the risk before delivery and upgraded the battery and/or applied a fix.

[Timini]

Wow, this is great!! what a fast response... now I can sleep and not have to worry.. My smart only runs the auto wipers when the car is in running mode..As I found out drive it home for the first time from the docks. It was just starting to rain when I thought to myself I better turn on the wiper and before I could the wipers turned themselfs on..I had to think for a second then I remember reading in the manual this is normal on the 2009 models with the rain sensor on the windsheild. I guess this is another reason the smart is a smart! As for the Auto lights I am going to take the forums advise and just shut them off completely each time I use them.. I did manage to get my Speedys on the car today the look great! I will post some pictures in a few minutes.

Aloha, Tim

[JPaul]

Tim, this is great!
You should/could test your theft alarm, just in case it gets off and you don't know how it sounds - I was totally thrown off one day when I tested it because I've never heard it before, it's unexpected from such a tiny car.
I.e., leave a window open and wait for a minute after locking the car. You will notice that only one light flashes on the dashboard by then. Put your hand in the car, by the cup holder, and get ready to press the red button on your key/fob.
Now you know how loud it is, and will not wonder who's the stupid alarm you may hear on a dark and stormy night...
Glad that you got it, so far from all of us... Waiting for pics.

[Timini]

Thanks Jpaul,

I will try that tomorrow.. great idea! You are so right this is a must.. I posted a picture on my recent post. I hope it worked? I am still getting used to posting pictures on this forum. I am just glad my smart is home safe and sound on Maui..

Aloha, Tim

[sberger]

Maybe those flashing red lights on your dash could be the cop behind you!!!

[SmartDigger]

As per Easton, The auto headlight and wiper battery drain issue has been fixed.

[jerry67205]

Hey folks, i need some help, the instrument lights started flashing while driving. the car has just 270 miles on it. does anyone know what might being going on?
Thanks in advance
Jerry

[Wdhitch]

Which lights?? The answer may very depending on which specific light came on.