Troubleshooting a Blown Fuse Every Time a Trailer is Connected

Question:

EVERY TIME I INSTALL MY TRAILER IT POPS THE FUSE. BRAKES LIGHT WORKS TURN SIGNAL WORK BUT THE OTHER ONES STAY OFF BECAUSE OF THE FUSE POP

asked by: RAMIRO

Expert Reply:

If your taillights keep blowing every time you connect your trailer, it seems to me you have a short in the running light on your trailer.

I recommend starting at the trailer connector and check for any corrosion or damaged pins. If there is corrosion, remove the wires from the connector as it could have spread inside the connector. Also, check the vehicle side connector for any corrosion or damaged pins. Fix as needed.

If the connectors are clean, follow the running light wire looking for any frayed, pinched or cut wires. Repair as needed.

Check your ground connections to ensure they are clean and corrosion free.

If your trailer has a lot of running lights, there could be too much power draw which could also lead to blown fuses. Switching to LED lights with much lower amperage would help in this situation.

If you are unable to find the problem or a solution after following these steps, let me know what you come up with and I will be happy to help with further troubleshooting.

I have attached a wiring diagram for you as well.

expert reply by: Chris B