Pairing Problems with a Tekonsha RF Prodigy Brake Controller and a 2008 Mercedes GL450

Question:

Im trying to install a Prodigy RF Brake Controller with a Tekonsha Remote on a 2008 GL450 Mercedes. I have verified that I get good ground and +13V on pins 1 and 4. Ive followed instructions step 1-3 perfectly, but I cannot ever get the display to read 0.0, no matter which way I turn the power knob, fully in each direction. I am able to get the system to count from P.5 to P.A, since the system is missing the 0.0 reading step, it does not appear to pair. I can get every thing else to work when I connect my trailer to the receiver unit at the end of the process all lights. But the unit remains unpaired. Any advice?

asked by: Tom K

Expert Reply:

I attached installation instructions that I checked out and it looks like you need to do the following steps:

1. Connect trailer to tow vehicle
2. Plug the Power Module 7-Way cable into the tow vehicle
3. The trailer 7-way must be disconnected from the power module
4. Start the vehicle engine, or sometimes you will only have to have the key on (try both since you are having problems)
5. Plug the remote hand held unit into an auxiliary power source within reach of you
6. Turn the power knob to the minimum position to where it is flashing 0.0
7. Fully depress and hold the manual override and the boost button, the display will run from P.5 to P.A, once it reaches P.A you can release the override and the boost button
8.Press and hold the brake pedal until the display shows 0.0 flashing
9. Set the power knob to greater than minimum, it should flash n.c. which means not connected
10. Re-connect the trailer 7-way to the power module, the display should read .c. (connected)

If you are following these directions and still encountering pairing problems, there is an alternate pairing method that works on difficult vehicles.

First, you will need to find another tow vehicle with a 7-way connector at the rear of the vehicle. Next, you will need to connect your trailer with the RF brake controller on it to that vehicle's 7 way. As long as your 2008 Mercedes GL450 is within range of your trailer at this point you should be able to pair your trailer to the GL450.