Brake Controller Reads 'Trailer Connected' After Getting Vehicle 7-way Wet With Power Washer  

Question:

Helpful Expert Reply:

It's certainly possible. Corrosion that's been knocked loose or a small short circuit caused by the moisture can fool the controller into sensing a draw so the controller thinks a trailer is connected.

You can test this theory by severing the blue wire that exits the rear of the controller. Leave enough wire so that you can easily re-attach the wire later. If cutting the wire fixed the problem, then the trailer connector was indeed causing the issue and should be replaced. If you reply with the year, make and model of the vehicle, I can suggest a replacement.

If the controller continues showing that a trailer is connected after the wire is cut, it means that there's an internal short in the controller and it needs to be replaced. If you find you need to replace the controller, I'd recommend using a proportional controller like the Tekonsha Prodigy P2, part # 90885. A proportional controller can sense how quickly the tow vehicle is braking, and will deliver just enough voltage to the trailer brakes to the trailer and the vehicle brake at the same rate. This leads to a safe, predictable braking event. The older time delayed controllers, like the # 80550 Pilot will always send the same amount of pre-set voltage to the trailer brakes, whether you just tap on the brake pedal quickly or you're having a full-out panic stop.

I've linked you to some helpful FAQ articles about brake controllers.

expert reply by: Mike L

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