2011 Ram 2500 Aftermarket Brake Controller Not Working But OEM Controller Does

Question:

2011 Ram 2500, with tow package, integrated oem brake controller. Im installing a Hayes controller so I can use EOH brakes. The OEM brake controller works on regular brakes and when plugged in, operates like it should. When I unplug the factory connector and plug in the harness from Hayes with the new controller, the brakes no longer works and no brake lights turn on. Verified power and ground on the Hayes, used a test light on the Hayes for stoplight and brake output. Tested that all the way to the factory connection on the firewall near the brake pedals. At the plug for the trailer, I have L/R turn signals, 12v+, and a good ground. Running lights dont work for some reason. Trailer brakes only work with the OEM controller, not with the Hayes. Same darn wiring. I can unprogram the OEM controller to eliminate the warning messages but that makes no change to the situation.

asked by: DAVID B

Expert Reply:

It would be understandable for the brakes not to work if you're having issues with an aftermarket controller, but this shouldn't be affecting the brake lights. Is the Hayes controller outputting any power with the manual override a few inches from the controller or is there no power at all. If you test the Hayes controller and there isn't any brake power output from it then it sounds like you have a bad controller and I recommend replacing it with something that has proven to be reliable like the Tekonsha Primus IQ # TK90160. This plugs into the factory plug on your 2011 Ram 2500 with the Wiring Adapter # 3021-P.

I also recommend checking the ground for your truck and trailer. I'm thinking that the OEM controller has a better ground connection than the aftermarket and that's why your other lights are working when the OEM controller is installed. Make sure all of your grounds are securely connected to a clean, bare-metal surface and that should fix the issues you're having with your lights.

expert reply by: Jon G