7-Way Brake Output Circuit and Brake Controller Blue Wire is Hot All the Time on 2013 Toyota Tacoma
Question:
I just wired up a brake controller on my new truck. At the 7 pin socket it shows 12 volts all the time. I double checked the output from the blue wire and it also shows 12 volts from the back of the harness, as well as showing 12 volts from the black wire at the back of the harness. Is there something else I need to do to fix this problem? Its a voyager controller.
asked by: Brad P
Expert Reply:
Having 12 volts all of the time on the brake controller blue wire and/or at the 7-Way trailer connector usually means there is a short circuit. First, sever the blue wire at the back of the brake controller a few inches. Use a circuit tester to test the end of the blue wiring coming out of the brake controller. If it shows power all the time then there is a problem inside the brake controller.
Before going any further check the red wire. It should only show power with the manual override. If it shows power all the time then there is a short to the brake switch output circuit that will need to be checked out by Toyota. Make sure that extra white ground wire is attached to a bare metal surface as well.
If you still get constant 12 volt power on the blue wire then there is a problem inside the controller and it will need to be replaced. The black wire should show power because it is power in to the controller.
If you disconnect the blue wire from the back of the controller and then test the vehicle side 7-Way and it still shows power then there is a short circuit at the connector or the wiring leading to it. Normally this is caused by corrosion on the pins or where the wires attach on the connector. However, your truck being a 2013 is so new it is unlikely this is the issue. However it is worth a look anyway just to cover all of the bases.
I have included a link to our FAQ article on troubleshooting brake controller installations that should also be helpful.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Up to 4 Axles
- LED Display
- Up to 360 Degrees
- Tekonsha
more information >
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