Troubleshooting Trailer LED Lights Staying on With Vehicle Off

Question:

I have a small utility trailer with standard bulbs. When connected to my 2016 Subaru Outback that has the HM11143885 Hopkins Plug-In Simple Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Connector. Everything works perfectly. I also have a larger aluminum trailer equipped completely with LED lights. With the car off, the trailers LED lights come on as soon as connected. The lights function properly but remain on regardless of ignition status. I have another tow vehicle and both trailers function correctly when connected to it. So I’ve isolated the issue to the Outback and the Hopkins wiring harness. Please advise

asked by: Steve I

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you're needing to install the Load Resistor Kit # DI34ZR so the Hopkins Wiring Kit # HM11143885 on your 2016 Subaru Outback Wagon is able to read the trailer lighting system properly. What these basically do is pull a little more power for the trailer lights which makes it easier for the vehicle to recognize the trailer is connected. I recommend installing the resistors closer to the trailer connector rather than the lights so you don't have to get a resistor for each individual light.

expert reply by: Jon G