ZCI Trailer Wiring Short on 2015 VW Golf SportWagen Causes Lights to Blink & Trailer Lights Stay On

Question:

I purchased the 119250KIT, for my 2015 Golf sportwagen but had it installed by a local repair shop. It worked fine for a good year, though I only use my trailer occasionally. But after this last winter, when I tried to hook up the trailer again, the connector, which was mounted OUTSIDE the vehicle per instructions, attached to the trailer hitch had been scuffed and weathered so badly, I had to clean and bend the connections to be able to make the connection to my trailer. I used the trailer this way for a couple loads. But then turned it back into the repair shop to replace the badly damaged connectors. Now we have serious issues: the brake lights and left turn signal work fine, but the right turn signal flashes both lights in strange patterns. And, worst of all, when the vehicle is OFF, the trailer back lights are on, which drains my battery. The mechanic has tried to trace wiring, but now we are thinking it must be a malfunctioning power module. Can I just replace that part? I am sure I am beyond warranty, and do not mind paying for a replacement. In your mounting instructions, do NOT store the connector attached to the hitch wen not in use. Mine got badly worn and damaged over a pretty severe winter here in Utah!

asked by: Kenneth B

Expert Reply:

Based on your description of what has occurred I believe that there is a short somewhere that is causing the problems. But the converter box alone from # 119250KIT cannot be replaced by itself because it is not offered. It would require a whole new complete harness.

expert reply by: Michael H