Connecting Brake Controller to Brake Stop Lamp Switch on 2006 VW Jetta
Question:
Can I connect a Prodigy P1 brake controller to a 2006 VW Jettas brake switch? I have it connected by a long wire to the post-converter brake light now but that causes intermittent braking when the turn signal is on. It also causes erratic flashing on the display when the lights are on. Thanks
asked by: Jack A
Expert Reply:
You might be able to connect to the brake switch. Use a circuit tester like part # PTW2993 and carefully probe the wires exiting the brake switch. If you find one wire that only shows voltage when the brake pedal is pressed (but not with the running lights or turn signals) then you can tap the red wire from your Prodigy into that circuit.
The third brake light circuit might be a viable option to find a clean dedicated brake signal as well. Some of the newer VW's use Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) wiring where more than one signal is carried on a wire, so you'll want to test the wire for the third brake light to ensure you're only getting signal on that wire with the brake, not any other lighting function.
Products Referenced in This Question
Product Page this Question was Asked From
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
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch
- Article: Towing a Trailer? Let's Talk About Brake Controllers
- Q&A: Replacement Hub for 2013 Wildwood 26TBSS Hub Drum with AL-KO 8700
- Q&A: Wiring a Camper Shell Third Brake Light on a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado
- Q&A: How To Add a Fuel Tank To a Truck with 5th Wheel Hitch In Bed
- Q&A: Recommended 16' Mesh Tarp for Dump Trailer
- Q&A: How to Bleed Electric Over Hydraulic Trailer Brakes
- Q&A: What is the Estimated Installation Time for Firestone Ride-Rite Air Bags on a 2006 Ford F-250
- Q&A: Comparing the Curt Q20 and the Curt A20 5th Wheel Hitches.
- Article: Best Camper Jacks
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 4-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)