Magnetic Trailer Lights Bleed Into One Another When Using Turn Signals

Question:

I have a 2011 kia sorento with a 4 way light harness I have a magnetic light kit for my boat trailer. When using either the left or right turn signal, the correct signal works but there is a weaker signal to the other turn signal. I would call it a bleed to the other signal light. This has happened on a 2006 dodge caravan as well. I just bought another set of magnetic trailer lights and I am still having the same problem. Where should I be looking for a solution? Thank you.

asked by: Fred N

Expert Reply:

If you have a signal bleeding from one light to the only then you have some sort of a wiring short. The first thing you will need to do to find this short is test the trailer connector on the tow vehicle. In order to do this you will need to activate one of the turn signals and then test both pins. If you get voltage on both pins then you know the issue is on the vehicle side. If you only get voltage on the correct pin while that respective signal is active then you know the issue is on the trailer side.

In regards to the trailer side make sure the magnetic tow lights like the Heavy Duty Magnetic Tow Lights part # TL21RK for example are grounded correctly to a bare metal portion of the frame and that there is no exposed parts of the wiring harness. If there is no visible damage then there could be an issue with the bonded section so it would be a good idea to replace this as well which is actually included in the above kit.

expert reply by: Conner L