Troubleshooting Brake Controller Causing Running Lights to Go On

Question:

Im having an issue, I have a brake controller and when I activate my manual brake check on the unit, it turns my parking lights on and not my brake lights, I know cause its turning my front park lights on and the third light on can doesnt light, i can hit the brake pedal and my brake lights light up full, hoeing for a simple answer, lol

asked by: Douglas H

Helpful Expert Reply:

Start by testing the 7-way on your truck, because the only pin that should be lighting up when you apply the manual override is the pin in the 5 o'clock position, which is the brake controller output wire; there should not be power to the running lights, which is the pin at the 11 o'clock position. If there is, you know something has been mis-wired somehow.

Also check your wiring thoroughly to ensure there are none that are crimped, broken or otherwise damaged. Also, corrosion or dirt may be the cause of a short in a trailer connector. Check the plug to see if there is any type of corrosion built up that may be hampering its functionality and clean or replace as necessary. I have also attached some help articles on testing and troubleshooting brake controllers for you to check out.

expert reply by: Kyle S