2012 Chevy Silverado Will Not Start When Brake Controller is Connected

Question:

I have a 2012 shevy when i hook up the brake controller my truck wont start when i unplug it the truck will then start?

asked by: Garrett

Expert Reply:

The brake controller must be connected to the wrong wire(s) on your 2012 Chevy Silverado. On your truck there is a tow package wire bundle under the dash to hardwire in a brake controller. It is under the dash, left of the steering column, held together with a white tag.

The wires will connect to the brake controller as follows:

Tow package Red to brake controller black for 12 volt power
Tow package Dark Blue to brake controller blue for output to the trailer brakes
Tow package Light Blue to controller red for input to the brake controller
Tow package White to controller white for ground

It is possible that there is also an orange wire. If the light blue wire does not have power on it only when the brake pedal is pressed then you would use the orange wire instead.

I have included links to a video showing an example installation on a 2012 Silverado and a help article on adding a controller to your generation GM truck.

expert reply by: Michael H