Troubleshooting Brake Lights Not Working When Flat Towing 2018 Nissan Frontier

Question:

We have a 2012 itasca sunova and we brought a blue ox patriot braking system when we installed it when we apply the brake on the coach the brake lights wont come on the frontier the patriot wont work.

asked by: Regina A

Expert Reply:

The Blue Ox Patriot Supplemental Braking System # BLU37TR is a great system that will power the brakes in your Nissan Frontier at the same time and with the same intensity that you apply to them in your RV. This system will not, however, power the brake lights on the vehicle. To allow your Frontier to accept the tail light functions from the RV, you will need to install tow bar wiring.

If you have not already done this, I recommend the Roadmaster Diode Flexo-Wiring Kit # RM-15267. This diode kit will allow you to use the vehicle's tail lights and wiring system while also preventing feedback from the RV. It includes a 6-way connector that you will install at the front of the Frontier and enough coiled wiring to go from there to the 7-Way on the RV.

If you already have tow bar wiring installed, but are still having issues with the brake lights being activated in correspondence with you applying them in your RV, then you will need to do some testing on the connectors and wiring. I recommend first testing the RV side connector with a circuit tester like # PTW2993 to make sure you are receiving power at the brake light pin with the brakes applied. If you are not, then you will want to check for any damaged/missing fuses and inspect the wiring for any damaged or exposed sections, replacing as needed.

If you do receive power at the connector, then the issue is somewhere on the towed vehicle side. Check the connector on the vehicle for any dirt or debris that might be built-up behind the pins. Also check the ground connections and make sure they are made to clean, bare metal surfaces.

If you are still having issues, please let me know and I will be happy to look into this further.