Troubleshooting Trailer Tail Lights And Signals Not Working On 2003 Dodge Ram 1500

Question:

Hello hows it going today I am having troubles with a 2004 Dodge ram 1500s trailer lights,I have lights but the signals dont work I have check continuity from the trailer plug all the way to the front left wheel well that seems good I have checked power at the fuses under the hood they are all getting power in I have check continuity from the fuse to the connecter in the wheel well and Im not getting any power to the green and yellow wires is there a brake signal module or would it be in the steering column from the signal switch ?

asked by: Cody J

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you have running lights, but no other functions. I recommend having a friend help you test your system. Put a circuit tester like # PTW2993 on your disconnected trailer plug first testing the functions individually. You should have right turn separate, left turn separate and taillight running light combined, then of course your ground. If you have a 5-way, that would add either reverse (chock your wheels before testing with a friend) or brake controller. If you have a 6-way that adds 12V battery, and if you have a 7-way, all of the functions. I've attached an article to help. To check for brake controller you will need to use the manual override and the light should start dim and get brighter as the manual slide increase in power.

If you don't have functions at the bumper you will need to trace the wire and test for function probing the wire along the way all the way to the point of origin. Replace wire if a short is present.

If you have the functions at the bumper, then connect your trailer and test function by probing wires directly behind the connection. If faulty, first make sure you have a clean ground with metal to metal contact and then clean or replace connector. If you have function there, you will probe the wires as you check function all the way to the lights, brakes, etc. You will need to replace wire anywhere you find a short. If wire is good all the way to lights, you may need to replace a bulb or the light itself.

expert reply by: Jason S