Rental Trailer Lights Not Working with 2011 Mercedes ML350 and Prodigy RF Brake Controller
Question:
I have a 2011mercedes ml 350 bluetec with factory towing package. I tried to rent a 23 foot 2012 airstream trailer. I connected the airstream to a prodigy RF brake controller which I connected to the mercedes. The prodigy was paired. I tested the trailer lights which did not respond to brake pressure or the turn signals. Does the Mercedes need to be reprogrammed or is there a product which can adapt the plugs to work?
asked by: Robert R
Expert Reply:
The Prodigy RF brake controller # TK94FR is a sensitive unit. You will need to make sure you follow the hooking up procedures to the letter or it may not work properly.
If you still have problems make sure that none of the tow package fuses on your 2011 Mercedes ML350 are blown.
It is also possible that the trailer lights were the problem. I would assume the rental place would check that and not leave it up to you! If the trailer happened to have LED lights you would need a special adapter, # 20142, in order for the lights to work.
You can test the vehicle side connector to make sure the vehicle is not the issue by following the help article I have linked. You will need a circuit tester such as # 3808 or a multimeter if you do not already have one.
Products Referenced in This Question
Trailer Connector Adapter w/ Lamp-Out Sensor Bypass - 7-Way RV to 7-Way RV - Vehicle End
- Trailer Wiring
- Wiring Adapters
- Single-Function Adapter
- 7 Round - Blade
- Plug Only
- 7 Round - Blade
- Tow Ready
more information >
Tekonsha Prodigy RF Wireless Brake Controller - Trailer Mount w Remote - 1 to 3 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Automatic Leveling
- Remote Control
- Trailer Mount
- Digital Display
- Tekonsha
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Pollak Metal 7-Pole, RV-Style Trailer Socket - Vehicle End
- Trailer Wiring
- Trailer Connectors
- Vehicle End Connector
- Plug Only
- 7 Round - Blade
- Pollak
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: Do 8k Oil Bath End Caps On Lippert Axle Interchange With Dexter End Caps
- Q&A: Recommended Electric Over Hydraulic Brake Set Up for 2016 Montana 3710FL 5th Wheel
- Q&A: Replacement Grease Seals For TRP GS-1719DL
- Q&A: Is Adapter Needed to Install Dometic Water Heater # DMC74FR In Place of Atwood
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch
- Article: 5 Tell-Tale Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Trailer’s Leaf Springs
- Q&A: Leaf Spring Recommendation for 4,400 lb Trailer Axle
- Q&A: Do I Need Brakes On Both Axles of a Car Hauler Trailer?
- Q&A: Recommended Wet Bolt and 2-1/4" Shackle Strap Kit for Tandem Axle Trailer
- Article: How to Replace Trailer Leaf Springs in 5 Steps
- Article: Hitch Adapters and Extenders
- Article: Troubleshooting Brake Controller Installations
- Article: Trailer Hitch Receiver Sizes