How to Test Tekonsha Primus IQ Brake Controller that Stopped Working
Question:
Hello I have the Primus iq not sure which model it is. My trailer lights all work , but I get no voltage at the blade terminal for the electric brake. I unplugged the controller and used a jumper wire from the black wire to the blue wire and then I see voltage at the blade terminal at the trailer connector.I also checked the wire for continuity from the plug at the controller to the blade terminal at the trailer connector and I get 0.06 ohms. Is the controller no good?
asked by: Carey L
Helpful Expert Reply:
Testing the brake controller is fairly easy. Sever the blue brake output wire near the brake controller leaving enough room to reconnect it and then apply the manual slide. Using a circuit tester like the Quickee Tester, part # PTW2993, you should get output to the controller side of the wire you severed. If the manual slide activates the trailer brake output wire properly, try the brake pedal. If the brake pedal activates the brake output properly also then the problem is farther back either in the vehicle wiring or on the trailer.
If either the brake pedal or the manual slide are not functioning properly you will need to test the wires going into the brake controller. Make sure you have power entering the brake controller on the black wire. On the red wire you will only want power when the brake pedal is pressed.
If there is power on the red wire before the brake pedal is pressed you have connected the red wire from the brake controller to the wrong circuit. You would then need to find the brake switch wire that has power ONLY when the brake pedal is activated.
If these connections check out and the brake controller is properly grounded then there is possibly a problem inside the brake controller.
I am including a link to a video that will show you how to test the wiring on a brake controller.
Products Referenced in This Question
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Deka Wire - Jacketed 4-Wire - 16/4 Gauge - per Foot
- Wiring
- Wire
- Jacketed Wire
- 4 Wire
- 16 Gauge
- Deka
more information >
Continue Researching
- Shop: Kenda Karrier ST205/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire with 15" Black Mod Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - LR D
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Shop: Bulldog Winch Hitch Mount Storage Bracket
- Search Results: spare mount for trailers
- Video: Kenda Tires and Wheels - Tire with Wheel - AM3S664DX Review
- Shop: Fulton Economy Spare Tire Mount with Lock
- Shop: Demco Spare Tire Mount for up to 4" Tall Trailer Tongue - Black
- Shop: Brophy Trailer Stake Pocket Spare Tire Mount - Black Powder Coat
- Shop: Folding Assist Step - Galvanized Finish
- Shop: Loadstar ST205/75D15 Bias Trailer Tire w/ 15" Black Mod Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range C
- Video: Bulldog Winch Electric Winch BDW20154 Review
- Search Results: furion
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Shop: BOLT brand vehicle and hitch locks
- Search Results: wheel locks
- Article: Troubleshooting Brake Controller Installations
- Q&A: Trailer Brakes Actuate Immediately When Trailer is Plugged in to Vehicle
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: Comparison of Tekonsha Prodigy P3 and Primus IQ Brake Controllers
- Search Results: 7" electric brakes
- Q&A: Wire Color/Function of Tekonsha Primus Brake Controller to Install on 2013 F150 w/ OEM Pigtail
- Video: Stromberg Carlson RV and Camper Steps - Motorhome - SMFP-1200 Review
- Video: etrailer Electric Trailer Brake Kit Installation AKEBRK-2
- Search Results: backup camera systems
- Article: Testing Trailer Brake Magnets for Proper Function
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Low Voltage Output from Brake Controller
- Q&A: All Trailer Lights Blink When One Turn Signal Is Activated
- Shop: RV Covers
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Trailer Brakes With Low Voltage
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Trailer Brake System That is Only Showing 5-Volts at Trailer Connector