Troubleshooting Trailer Running Lights Not Working But Trailer Connector Has Power

Question:

I have 14 volts from white to brown connect to trailer no lights recheck for 14 volts at connector from car no voltage if I turn car lights off and back on I get the 14 volts

asked by: Brad

Helpful Expert Reply:

Since you mentioned you are getting power to the brown running light circuit wire, but the running lights are not turning on there is few a possibilities.

The most common issue is a ground is bad. I recommend checking that the running lights have a ground wire connected to clean corrosion free metal. If they ground through the studs make sure they are attached directly to metal. If the trailer has a tilt bed or is aluminum you may need to run a jumper wire from each lights ground to the main ground on the tongue of the trailer.

If the grounds check out, make sure the power is getting from the connector to the light. I recommend checking the power at each light.

If you are not getting power to the lights then the brown wire from the connector has a damaged section between the light and connector and will need to be replaced with # 16-1-1.

If you are getting power to the lights then the problem is the light itself. Make sure if they have removeable bulbs that the bulbs are not damaged. If they do not have removable bulbs you will need to replace the lights.

If you do need to replace the lights just send me a picture of the lights and a few dimensions and I would be happy to make a recommendation for you.

I included a link to a helpful article on wiring for you to take a look at.