Running Lights On Trailer Towed By 2006 Subaru Outback Wagon Stay On

Question:

I bought this from you last year and it worked perfectly for about 5 or 6 months then all of a sudden the trailer running lights continually remained on even when the car lights were off and even when the ignition switch was turned off so the trailer needs to be unplugged whenever driving is done for the day. The cars running lights behave correctly and go on and off with the headlight switch whether or not the trailer is plugged in. I want to order another 118461 part but dont want to have this happen again, any ideas of problem areas to explore before I purchase a replacement?

asked by: Bill M

Helpful Expert Reply:

Because the converter box used on the # 118461 draws its electrical power directly from the battery, the fact that your trailer tail lights continue to illuminate after the vehicle ignition is shut off indicates that the converter box has shorted out.

This is almost always caused by a short circuit somewhere in the trailer wiring, most likely the running light circuit. Before replacing the converter, you will need to carefully examine the wiring on your trailer, beginning at the trailer connector and working your way back to the lamps. Make sure the trailer connector is not damaged or corroded. Trace the running light circuit (usually a brown wire) looking for pinched or broken wires or cracked or worn insulation that would allow the copper wire inside to short out on the trailer frame or other metal. Make sure the bulbs are fully seated and the sockets are not corroded. As you are following the running light circuit, it would also be a good idea to examine the right turn/brake light and left turn/brake light circuits as well. This can be a tedious process, but if you replace the converter without discovering and repairing the short in the trailer wiring, you will continue to blow converter boxes.

The # 118461 carries a 1 year manufacturers warranty, if you're still in the warranty period, give us a call.

expert reply by: Mike L