Electric Brakes Lock Up Everytime I Touch the Brakes
Question:
I have an issue with my electric brakes on a work trailer with a seven pin round connector. Every time I touch the brakes the trailer locks up no matter what setting the brake controller is on. I have even unplugged the controller and they would still lock up. What is the issue here?
asked by: Jeremy
Expert Reply:
I recommend starting with the 7-Way connector at the rear of your tow vehicle. Check for any corrosion or debris build-up inside the connector that might be causing a short and clean as needed.
If the connector looks fine, use a multimeter like # PT89ZR to test for voltage at the brake circuit on the connector when you have the brakes applied using a low setting. With this setting, you should see a number well under 12 volts, as 12 volts is the maximum output of a brake controller. If you are seeing 12 volts, then there is an issue somewhere along the wiring going up to the controller or possibly with the brake controller itself.
First check for any obvious causes of a short, such as damaged or frayed wiring, simply fixing as needed. If everything looks okay, move to the trailer brake controller inside the vehicle and sever the brake output wire, from the back of the controller. Repeat the same steps performed above with a multimeter to see if you get the same 12 volts with the controller set at a low setting. If this is the case, then the issue is with the brake controller itself and it will need to be replaced. The Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller # 90195 is recommended.
If you see a lower voltage when testing there, then there is an issue somewhere on the wiring between the trailer connector and brake controller. Inspect the wiring again and fix any issues as needed. If you have any further issues contact me back and let me know.
Products Referenced in This Question
Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Up to 4 Axles
- LCD Display
- Up to 360 Degrees
- Tekonsha
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Digital Multimeter with 42" Long Test Leads - LED Display
- Electrical Tools
- Testers
- Multimeter
- Yellow
- Performance Tool
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Electric Trailer Brakes not Working
- Article: Testing Trailer Brake Magnets for Proper Function
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Q&A: Does The Progressive Dynamics PD4655V Have A Lithium Jumper
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: Can An A-Frame Trailer Jack Be Wired To The 7-Pole Cable
- Q&A: How to Wire a Trailer with Electric Brakes
- Article: Troubleshooting Brake Controller Installations
- Q&A: Should Electric Trailer Brakes Have Continuity Between The Two Wires?
- Q&A: Brake Control Plug Location in a 2022 Nissan Frontier
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Curt Echo Brake Controller Showing Electrical Overload
- Article: Testing Brake Controls
- Article: How to Charge a Trailer Battery While Driving: 3 Common Problems (And How to Fix Them)
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch