Troubleshooting Tekonsha PowerTrac Brake Controller Not Lighting Up  

Question:

Expert Reply:

When the Tekonsha PowerTrac Brake Controller # 39523 is hooked up in the vehicle the light will usually be off until you're actually connected to the trailer. If you do connect the trailer and you still don't see a green light then most likely there is an issue on the blue brake output wire from the controller to the 7-Way or somewhere on the trailer wiring.

Since you already tested for power on the controller's 12V black wire you at least know the controller itself is getting power.

The easiest place to start is by simply inspecting both the vehicle and trailer side 7-Way connectors. Look for any debris or corrosion built up around the pins and clean out as needed.

If this doesn't resolve the issue, then you will want to use a circuit tester like # PTW2993 to test for power at the brake output pin on the tow vehicle's 7-Way (5 o'clock position) when applying the controller's manual override. If you don't get power, then you know the problem is on the vehicle side. If you do get power, then the issue is on the trailer.

If it's the vehicle and you know the connector itself is clean, you will want to test the brake controller itself to make sure there isn't an internal fault. To do this sever the blue wire from the back of the controller and test it there to see if you get power with the manual override. If you still don't get power then the controller likely needs to be replaced.

On the trailer side inspect any wiring to the brakes you can gain access to, looking for damaged, pinched, or exposed areas that need to be fixed. Make sure the brake assemblies themselves are securely grounded to clean, bare metal surfaces free of any debris or corrosion.

If you still aren't able to find and resolve the issue please let me know and we can continue to troubleshoot.

expert reply by: Chris R

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