Trailer Running Lights are Not Working on Trailer Towed by a 2009 Nissan Xterra

Question:

I have a 2009 Nissan Xterra. I recently had a trailer hitch installed but have no running lights. Brake Lights and turn signals work just fine. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

asked by: Ed

Expert Reply:

If your 2009 Nissan Xterra did not come with a factory tow package, you would need to have the appropriate relays in addition to a wiring harness in order for all of the trailer lights to work properly. The harness that you have referenced, # C56225, does come with the relays needed to make the trailer wiring harness fully functional. I have included a link to the installation details for you.

If your Xterra came with a tow package you can check to see if the relays are there and functioning. You can find their locations using the instructions I have linked or by using the owner's manual.

If everything on the vehicle is good to go then the issue is on the trailer side, most likely a bad ground. Check the main ground at the front of the trailer and the ground for each tail light. They should all be attached to clean and corrosion free bare metal surfaces.

expert reply by: Michael H