Why Would Trailer Brakes Lock Up All the Time But Still Allow Trailer Lights to Function

Question:

I have 2003 take 3 ,,trailer brakes locking up and no trailer connection,,but lights are coming on ,,I have a a thin wire connected to the break away,,could that thin wire cause it to short,,thanks

asked by: Dontay

Expert Reply:

If the breakaway system was activating your trailer brakes the battery of the system would eventually die and it would stop activating them.

If the brakes lock up everytime the trailer is connected to the tow vehicle that typically is a short between the 12 volt accessory circuit and the brake output circuit. This causes the brakes to come on anytime the trailer is connected. This will still allow the trailer lights to function.

Check the wiring from the connector to the brake assemblies to see if you can find any shorts and fix as necessary. Cut or exposed wire will be what to look for mainly.

expert reply by: Jameson C