Troubleshooting Brake Controller On 2008 Chevrolet Silverado

Question:

I have 2008 Silverado and I have my sensor for the brakes for the trailer goes up and down the brakes on the trailer go on and off without me putting the brakes

asked by: Michel D

Helpful Expert Reply:

The first thing I recommend is to check the vehicle side connector and the trailer side for signs of corrosion or damage.

If that checks out, check to make sure all of the wires under the dash are still secure or have not somehow been damaged or crimped. You will want to check to make sure there are no shorts on the brake wire on the vehicle side as well as the trailer side. Check the ground to make sure it is secured.

If everything checks out you can check to see if the brake controller is the culprit. Sever the blue brake wire about 4 to 5 inches from the back of the controller. Use a circuit tester like part # 3808 and test the blue wire at the controller end. It should only show power when the manual override is engaged. If it does show power without the manual override engaged or if it is intermittent, the problem is with the brake controller and it will need to be replaced.

The red wire should only show power when the brake pedal is pressed. The white wire needs to be attached to a clean metal surface.

The black wire should be attached to a 12 volt power source.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L