How do I Keep My 2021 Ford F-150 from Thinking There is a Trailer Attached when Using a Hitch Light?
Question:
I only have a skull head emblem tow hitch receiver cover. The eyes light up when you put on the brakes. How can I keep it attached without getting a message about a trailer? The security system also detected trailer disconnect and triggered my alarm.
asked by: DeeDee
Expert Reply:
I am so sorry to hear you are having this error message! The good news is that it is unlikely that there is a huge underlying issue with the message itself. This is because newer trucks have really complex feedback systems that commonly react when aftermarket accessories/products are installed.
Since the power draw of your hitch light like the # RP86529 is much less than that of a trailer, your 2021 Ford F-150 thinks that there is some sort of short or interference with the connection.
There are two ways to proceed with this issue. The first is to install the Load Resistor Kit for LED Turn Signals # DI34ZR and install one on the right and one on the left in order to "trick" the truck into thinking a real trailer is attached, and will avoid any error code that says there is a trailer disconnect. In order to achieve this, you need the following components:
The second possible option is to separate the stop light circuit so that it doesn't work in unison with the turn signals' circuit. In order to achieve this, you need the following components:
- 4-Pole 60" Long Vehicle End (with 4 wire taps) # 18002
- 4-Pole Trailer End Connector # 18004
- Vehicle to Vehicle Tail Light Converter # 118158
I went ahead and attached a diagram that shows the wiring overview of these parts.
If none of these routes are something you are willing to install, you could also just snip the yellow and green wires from the back of the hitch light and only use it on the running light circuit.
(click to enlarge)
Products Referenced in This Question
Vehicle to Vehicle Tail Light Converter
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Wiring
- Mounting Hardware
- Brackets
- 7 Round
- 7 Round
- Tow Ready
more information >
4-Way Flat Trailer Connector w/ 60" Harness and Wire Taps
- Trailer Wiring
- Trailer Connectors
- Vehicle End Connector
- 0 - 5 Feet Long
- Plug and Lead
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
- Trailer Wiring
- Trailer Connectors
- Trailer End Connector
- 0 - 5 Feet Long
- Plug and Lead
- 4 Flat
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Load Resistor Kit for LED Turn Signals - 50 Watts - 6 Ohm - Qty 2
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Lights
- Load-Resistor Kit
- Diamond
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Article: Performance Chips and Modules
- Shop: Roof Rack
- Shop: Performance Chip Tuners
- Shop: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4"
- Shop: etrailer Hitch Pin Alignment Collar for Hitch Accessories - 2" Hitches
- Shop: Yakima JetStream Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - 50" Long - Qty 2
- Shop: Curt Rubber Tube Cover - 1-1/4"
- Video: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver Installation - 2015 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
- Shop: etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Shop: etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Shop: Load Resistor Kit for LED Turn Signals - 50 Watts - 6 Ohm - Qty 2
- Q&A: Installing LED Light Bulb Load Resistor Kit
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Trailer Wiring Not Working After Changing Truck Lights to LED
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Ford LED Hitch Cover Causing Error Code on 2018 Ford F-150
- Q&A: LED Hitch Cover Troubleshooting on 2020 GMC Sierra
- Search Results: hitch lights
- Video: Draw-Tite Wiring - Trailer Connectors - 18004 Review
- Video: Review of Diamond Lights - Load Resistors - DI34ZR
- Video: Curt Trailer Connector Adapter Installation - 2021 Ford F-150
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: Front Mount Hitch
- Video: Choosing the Right Trailer Wiring
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Video: Tow Ready 4-Pole Mounting Bracket Installation
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
on Hitch Covers
