Brake Lights Won't Work and 2006 Honda Accord Won't Shift Out of Park with Trailer Connected

Question:

I installed the light kit #118302 on my 2006 Honda Accord sedan. When I hook up the trailer lights my vehicle brake lights dont work and the car wont allow me out of park and into gear. As soon as I unplug the trailer lights the car goes into gear just fine. Any idea what the problem could be?

asked by: Keith

Helpful Expert Reply:

I think I know what is going on with the trailer wiring harness # 118302 on your 2006 Honda Accord sedan. Since the issue happens when you plug in the trailer that indicates either a short on the trailer side or the trailer has enough lights to overdraw the wiring harness (which is rated for 2.1 amps per circuit for brake and turn signal lights at 4.2 amps for tail lights).

The connection on the vehicle side is being interrupted by this short or over draw and the shift lock, which allows you to shift out of park when your foot is on the brake, is not disengaging.

On the trailer side make sure that the connector is clean and free of corrosion inside and out. Also inspect the trailer wiring for any pinched or damaged wires and fix as needed.

If the combined power draw from the lights is higher than what is listed above then the best solution is to switch to LED lights, see link. You can test this ahead of time though by disconnecting some lights and if everything starts working then an overdraw was the problem.

expert reply by: Michael H