Troubleshooting No Driver Side Brake/Turn Signal Lights on Trailer

Question:

My running lights work on the snowmobile trailer, but the turn and brake on the driver side does not,,,, passenger side is fine. bulb or connection? Thanks!

asked by: Pete

Expert Reply:

If the turn/brake lights on your trailer aren't working then I first recommend pinpointing whether the issue is on the trailer side or somewhere on the tow vehicle. To do this you will want to use a circuit tester like # PTW2992 to test the driver side brake/turn signal pin on the tow vehicle's connector (9 o'clock position on a 7-Way). Check to make sure you get power there with this function activated on the vehicle.

If you do get power then you know the problem is on the trailer but if you aren't getting power then something is going on with the wiring or a fuse on the vehicle. If this is the case I recommend checking your owner's manual for any related fuse locations and check to make sure they are in good condition, replacing if needed.

Otherwise if you did get power then I recommend inspecting the trailer side connector for any debris or corrosion around the pins that needs to be cleaned out. You can also inspect the wiring for this circuit (where accessible) for any frayed or pinched areas that need to be replaced.

If all of this looks good then it could certainly just be a bad light. To do this you will just need to independently check the light by applying 12V power to it directly. If you find that a new light is needed I have attached a link that will take you to our comple selection of trailer lights that you can look through.

expert reply by: Chris R