Troubleshooting No 12V Trailer Power on 7-Way Trailer Connector on 2004 GMC Savana Van

Question:

I have no power to the trailer on my 2004 GMC Savana Van. Every thing else works. Ive checked the fuses and dont see a bad one.

asked by: Jason

Expert Reply:

If you are referring to the 12V auxiliary trailer power circuit on a 7-way socket, which is normally carried on the pin at the 1-o-clock position as you look at the vehicle 7-way (see photo please), then you could have a bad circuit breaker on this power feed or there could be a corrosion problem on the socket contacts, or within the wiring that connects to it. For a 40-amp auto-resetting circuit breaker you can use # PK54540.

Even slight greenish or whitish discoloration on or inside a trailer connector's contacts can cause interference with the transmission of signals like the trailer power feed. You can try unplugging the 7-way and cleaning its external and internal connections to remove any oxidation or corrosion. There are aerosol contact cleaner products, like Caig De-Oxit, that can help restore dirty contacts and a small nylon brush or fine sandpaper can also help remove stubborn corrosion.

expert reply by: Adam R