Troubleshooting A TBC On A 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 That Shuts Off When Vehicle Stops

Question:

I have a factory installed trailer brake control system and when I connect my 5th wheel camper to the plug in on the back of my truck, my truck reads trailer connected. After driving for awhile, it works. When I make a complete stop at a stop light and put my foot back on the gas, I get the trailer brake system error. I lose power to the trailer brakes. I have to turn off my truck and restart and then my trailer is connected. I have taken this to the dealer and they told me it’s my camper brake system. My camper is a 2020. Not that old and I don’t understand why it works until I make a complete stop and the instant I put my foot on the gas, the trailer brake error comes back on. And I repeat the cycle. Turn off my truck and restart and trailer is connected. Is there someway to figure out what the real problem is? Do I need to replace something in the truck or camper?

asked by: Jeff P

Expert Reply:

It sounds like there is an issue with the trailer brake controller itself. I recommend starting there with the troubleshooting process.

To test your brake controller, all you're going to need to do is cut the blue brake controller output wire near the brake controller and apply the manual slide. While using a circuit tester like # PTW2993 check to ensure that you are receiving voltage to the output side of the wire you just severed.

If the manual slide activates the trailer brake output wire, try the brake pedal. If the brake pedal activates the output wire then the problem farther back on the vehicle or with the trailer. You are also going to want to make sure that you leave enough room to reconnect the wire when you're done.

If the manual slide or the brake pedal are not functioning properly, you are going to need to check the wires going to the brake controller. Make sure that you are receiving power on the black wire going to the brake controller, and that the red power only provides power when the brake pedal is pressed.

If all this checks the last thing you can check is that your ground connections are all secure and grounded properly. If your grounds are good, then the issue is likely with the brake controller and will need to be replaced.

I have also attached an FAQ on how to test your brake controllers for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Bryce D