Troubleshooting Trailer Lights Going Out When 2004 Ford Taurus Tail Lights are On
Question:
I followed the instructions for a 4 pin trailer light hookup on to my 2004 Ford Taurus. The problem is that when I step on the brake only when the tail lights are on one trailer brake light will not come on in fact the same tail light on the trailer goes out also. When the tail ligths are off everything works fine. Please Help Thank You Very Much!!
asked by: Jerry A
Expert Reply:
It sounds as if you have a faulty ground connection. This could be the ground connection you installed with the 4-Pole Hardwire Kit, # 18252, or a ground on the trailer. When the tail lights are on the amperage draw is higher and a bad ground connection will appear.
Once you check the ground connection for the wiring kit, check the ground at the coupler on the trailer frame, for each trailer light and where any light brackets attach to the trailer frame. Clean all ground points so there is contact to bare metal and you will eventually find the problem. We have a couple of videos detailing ground wire troubleshooting for you to review, see links.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
- Trailer Wiring
- Trailer Connectors
- Trailer End Connector
- 0 - 5 Feet Long
- Plug and Lead
- 4 Flat
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Does The Draw-Tite trailer Hitch Receiver Come With One Or Two Hitch Pin Holes
- Q&A: Replacement Hub and Drum Assemblies for AL/KO 8460 Hubs and Drums
- Q&A: Replacement Zerk Fitting Recommendation for Dexter EZ Lube Spindle
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: Can 12 Volt Accessory Circuit of Trailer Wiring Keep 10 Amp Breakaway Battery Topped Off
- Q&A: Recommended Roof Rack Crossbars for Lance Cab Over Camper With Factory Tracks
- Q&A: Can You Install a 5th Wheel Hitch On a 2021 GMC Sierra 2500
- Q&A: 4-Way Trailer Connector that has 5 Wires
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Article: How to Measure for Travel Trailer and Fifth Wheel Steps
- Article: Trailer Tire Sizing
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch
- Article: Towing a Trailer? Let's Talk About Brake Controllers
- Article: Troubleshooting 4 and 5-Way Wiring Installations