Running Lights on Trailer Do Not Work After Trailer Connector was Installed on a 2008 Honda Odyssey  

Question:

Expert Reply:

What this sounds like is a classic ground issue, Ground issues show up when there is more load on a circuit, like the constant draw of the running lights in this case. Since the wiring harness is new it is likely an issue on the trailer. But the first thing you are going to want to do is test the vehicle side connector to isolate exactly where the problem is.

Use a circuit tester like # PTW2993 if you need one. Have someone sit in the van and run through the lighting functions while testing with the circuit tester at the trailer connector. If the running light signal does not work, then you know the issue is on the vehicle and I would take it back to the installer and have them correct the error. Make sure they attached the white ground wire to the frame.

If everything checks out on the van then that indicates that the problem is on the trailer. Check the main trailer connector ground and the grounds for each of the lights. They need to be attached to clean and corrosion free bare metal surfaces. Inspect the wiring leading to the lights for any nicks that may have exposed wiring touching metal. Make sure that the trailer side connector is clean and free of corrosion (the same should be done on the vehicle side).

If the trailer has an aluminum frame or folding tongue then running jumper grounds from the lights to the main trailer connector ground will help. I have included some links that will help troubleshoot further.

expert reply by: Michael H

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