How do I Tell if the Brake Controller is Bad
Question:
Should I get a continuous 12 volts from the blue wire lead in the back of the truck or should it only read 12 volts when I press either the brake pedal or the brake switch/slider on the brake controller. If I am getting 12 volts all the time is this a sign that the controller is no good.
asked by: James R
Expert Reply:
You are correct, you should only be getting output when the brake is applied, or the override switch is activated. It sounds like the controller might be bad, but to make sure, you should probably bench test it before tossing it. Use a circuit tester, and check the red wire that exits the rear of the controller. This wire should only go hot when the brake pedal is pressed. If this checks out ok, then the controller is bad and must be replaced. We have a video that shows how to bench test a brake controller, I'll give you a link to the video below.
If you find that you need to replace the controller, I'd recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P2, part # 90885. The P2 is a proportional controller for safer, more predictable braking. The P2 is very highly rated because of how easy it is to use.
Jordan W.
6/15/2020
I took my Silverado 1500 ltz to the dealership because of the recall on the brakes. After I got it back. The trailer brake system keeps popping on. Even tho I never use the trailer brakes. They want to charge me 90 dollars to bring it in. Even tho the recalls where for the brake systems. Never had an issue until I got it back.
Products Referenced in This Question
Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Up to 4 Axles
- LED Display
- Up to 360 Degrees
- Tekonsha
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Video: Trailer Brake Controller Wire Testing
- Article: Troubleshooting Brake Controller Installations
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Search Results: torsion axle trailer leaf spring suspension
- Q&A: How To Tell If You Have A Faulty Brake Controller
- Shop: Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Search Results: trailer brake controller
- Shop: Pro Series 16K Fifth Wheel Head Assembly, Head Support and Handle Kit
- Shop: Curt Venturer NEXT Trailer Brake Controller - 1-3 Axles - Time Delayed
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Video: Performance Tool Plastic Bearing Packer Review
- Shop: etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 12" - Left/Right Hand - 5.2K to 7K
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: Hook Probe Circuit Tester
- Shop: Dexter Nev-R-Adjust Electric Trailer Brakes - 12-1/4" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 12K
- Article: Testing Trailer Brake Magnets for Proper Function
- Shop: Dexter Electric Trailer Brakes - 12" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 7,000 lbs
- Search Results: brake shoes
- Search Results: 12 brake shoes
- Article: How to Measure a Trailer Axle
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch
- Video: Review of Pro Series Fifth Wheel - PS30099
- Search Results: pro series
- Search Results: pro series 15k fifth wheel hitch
- Video: Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller Installation - 2022 Jeep Wagoneer
- Article: Gooseneck to 5th Wheel Adapters
- Video: Draw-Tite Hitch Ball - Gooseneck Hitch Ball - 19309 Review
- Search Results: timbren 7000 axle less
- Article: Aftermarket Brake Control Wiring for 07-13 GM Full-Size Truck with Factory-Integrated Brake Control
Duane L.
4/11/2024
I have a 2021 Colorado with 3.6 cy, towing package. I do not have any voltage on F24 in the under hood fuse block that is supposed to be the positive for a brake controller. Even with the fuse out. Does the 2021 have to be programmed to power the fuse block?