My BSP checklist is...feeddogs down, pressure on the foot dailed down to 0, stitch length set about 2, BSR foot attached and plugged in, bobbin thread threaded through the eye hole, tension on top thread between 5-10, put in test square to check tension, press needle down function after bringing up threads. Press BSR on machine and in number 1 mode. I like mode one for foot control. As I move the square the red light stays on as I sew. I have read that the BSR has trouble reading on red fabric or if the lens is dusty. I am still working with mine and I am not really good yet but mine is operator error. It sounds like maybe you need to see your dealer for instruction or replacement?