How do I Tell if the Brake Controller is Bad
Question:
Should I get a continuous 12 volts from the blue wire lead in the back of the truck or should it only read 12 volts when I press either the brake pedal or the brake switch/slider on the brake controller. If I am getting 12 volts all the time is this a sign that the controller is no good.
asked by: James R
Expert Reply:
You are correct, you should only be getting output when the brake is applied, or the override switch is activated. It sounds like the controller might be bad, but to make sure, you should probably bench test it before tossing it. Use a circuit tester, and check the red wire that exits the rear of the controller. This wire should only go hot when the brake pedal is pressed. If this checks out ok, then the controller is bad and must be replaced. We have a video that shows how to bench test a brake controller, I'll give you a link to the video below.
If you find that you need to replace the controller, I'd recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P2, part # 90885. The P2 is a proportional controller for safer, more predictable braking. The P2 is very highly rated because of how easy it is to use.
Jordan W.
6/15/2020
I took my Silverado 1500 ltz to the dealership because of the recall on the brakes. After I got it back. The trailer brake system keeps popping on. Even tho I never use the trailer brakes. They want to charge me 90 dollars to bring it in. Even tho the recalls where for the brake systems. Never had an issue until I got it back.
Products Referenced in This Question
Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Up to 4 Axles
- LED Display
- Up to 360 Degrees
- Tekonsha
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Video: Trailer Brake Controller Wire Testing
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Article: Troubleshooting Brake Controller Installations
- Shop: Gooseneck Hitch
- Search Results: torsion axle trailer leaf spring suspension
- Shop: Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Shop: Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Q&A: How To Tell If You Have A Faulty Brake Controller
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Video: Performance Tool Plastic Bearing Packer Review
- Shop: etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 12" - Left/Right Hand - 5.2K to 7K
- Video: Curt Mounting Bracket for 7-Way Connector Plug Review
- Shop: etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - 12" - Left/Right Hand Assemblies - 5,200 lbs to 7,000 lbs
- Shop: Hook Probe Circuit Tester
- Article: Testing Trailer Brake Magnets for Proper Function
- Shop: Hopkins Powered Tail Light Converter w/ 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector and Install Kit
- Shop: Curt Spyder Gooseneck Trailer Hitch for Fifth Wheel Rails - 30,000 lbs
- Shop: B&W Turnoverball Underbed Gooseneck Trailer Hitch w/ Custom Installation Kit - 30,000 lbs
- Shop: Tailgate
- Search Results: brake controller
- Search Results: 12 brake shoes
- Search Results: brake shoes
- Article: How to Measure a Trailer Axle
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch
- Video: Review of etrailer Trailer Fenders - Single Axle Fender - HP66VR
- Search Results: 12 inch wide fenders
- Video: Gooseneck Trailer Hitch Installation - 2006 Dodge Ram Pickup
Duane L.
4/11/2024
I have a 2021 Colorado with 3.6 cy, towing package. I do not have any voltage on F24 in the under hood fuse block that is supposed to be the positive for a brake controller. Even with the fuse out. Does the 2021 have to be programmed to power the fuse block?