Curt Trailer Brake Controller Does Not Apply Trailer Brakes when Connected to 2005 Honda Odyssey

Question:

2005 Honda Odyssey Touring Hello, I recently installed this along with a 7-point plug on my van. I followed all the instructions exactly. Everything appeared to work because when I press on the brake, the little green light comes on, and when I activate the manual switch, my car brake lights come on. However, when I plug my trailer into the car, and press the brakes, there are no output bars displayed on the readout, and the adjustments do not do any good. When I activate the manual switch with the trailer connected, I still get the little green light, but no brakes are applied on the trailer. Can someone help me with what might be the problem? Many thanks!

asked by: Michael

Expert Reply:

The most likely culprit is going to be either a dirty or corroded trailer connector or brake magnet wiring. This can cause a short or a weak connection. First, disconnect the trailer and examine the vehicle side connector. Clean off any dirt or corrosion on the pins. Also check the back of the connector where the wires attach because corrosion can build up there as well.

Once you have done that use a circuit tester like # PTW2979 if needed to test the brake output pin (5:00 position) while someone else sits in the vehicle and applies the manual override on the brake controller. The tester should light up but if it does not that would indicate a wiring or brake controller issue on the vehicle side.

I do not think it is a brake controller issue since it does what it is supposed to when no trailer is connected.

On the trailer side you will do the same thing with its connector as you did on the vehicle side. Then you will want to inspect the wiring leading to the magnets and make any repairs. Make sure the ground wires for the magnets are attached to clean and corrosion free bare metal surfaces.

Next inspect the magnets themselves. If you can see the copper windings coming through on the magnet they will need to be replaced. To further test the magnets and brake controller you can follow the FAQs I have linked for you.

expert reply by: Michael H