Troubleshooting a 5E Error Message on a Hopkins Reliance Trailer Brake Controller  

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Expert Reply:

I cannot find any information regarding a 5E or SE error message related to the Hopkins Reliance brake controller. The cause of the error depends on how it is affecting the performance of the brake controller. So I can go over some common issues which may be the problem.

First, you mentioned the red wire. On the cold side of the brake switch, there can be more than one wire that shows a signal when the brake pedal is pressed. If it is connected to a wire that also shows a signal when the headlights are on or when the turn signals are engaged it is not the correct wire.

You will also want to make sure that the white wire is grounded to the negative battery terminal. The negative battery terminal is the best ground location you can use. The black wire should be connected to the positive battery terminal via a 20 or 30 amp circuit breaker. That just leaves the blue wire that goes out to the trailer brakes.

A dirty or corroded trailer connector can cause problems as well. Make sure the fronts and backs of both the vehicle side and trailer side connectors are clean.

Finally, the magnets on the trailer brakes may need to be replaced. First, visually inspect the magnets. If you see the windings coming through, they will need to be replaced. Make sure that the ground and power connections are intact with no corrosion or breaks in the wiring.

You can then move on to checking the brakes with a multimeter. I have included a link to an FAQ article that shows how to perform a brake magnet check.

expert reply by: Michael H

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