No Brake or Turn Signal Lights Working on Trailer

Question:

I have running lights but do not have left or right turning lights. Also, don’t have brake lights. Used the stick test and the brake light blade only read 1 volt. I had 13 volts on running lights and the blade for power was reading properly too. Any ideas?

asked by: Steve

Helpful Expert Reply:

I am assuming you tested the vehicle's 7-way trailer connector with a circuit tester like part # PTW2993. If this is the case and you indeed only received 1 volt on the brake light circuit while the vehicle's brake pedal was depressed, then it would appear that you have a short in the wire that leads from the vehicle's wiring harness to the 7-way trailer connector. You will need to trace this wire back to check for broken or loose connections. This same process will need to be done for the left and right turn signals as well.

If the short in the wire cannot be found, then I would first check the vehicle's fuse box for any blown fuses. Once this is done you can move onto the grounds. You will need to make sure each of these grounds are properly secured and corrected to a bare metal part of the trailer's frame. Last but not least would be to check the trailer connectors to ensure none of the pins are broke or corrosion is present.

I have attached our wiring help article for you as well if you need further assistance.

expert reply by: Conner L