Taillights Not Working on Trailer when Towed by a 2004 Volvo XC90
Question:
When I plug my utility trailer into the connector on my Volvo XC90 the running lights will not work, but when I use a different vehicle the running lights work fine. The taillights on the car are working and I tested the trailer connector with a circuit tester and the connector has power. Also I tried a different trailer and everything works fine. Any Ideas?
asked by: Steve
Expert Reply:
It sounds like you might have a weak ground connection or corrosion in one of the bulbs on the taillight circuit on the trailer. Since you tested with a circuit tester and a different trailer is working properly the issue should be found on your trailer.
The wiring kit, # 119250KIT, on your 2004 Volvo XC90 has a sophisticated signal converter that can detect weak grounds and corrosion that can cause bleed over on the trailer circuits and will cut off the power to that circuit. Plugging that trailer into another vehicle without this type of converter may allow the lights to work properly.
The solution is pretty simple, just check all the ground connections on the trailer and make sure that there is no corrosion in any of the light sockets or wire splices in the running light circuit. One spot that is often overlooked is the license plate light, which is also powered off of the taillight circuit. This should solve the issue for you.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
ZCI Circuit Protected Vehicle Wiring Harness w/ 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector and Installation Kit
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Converter
- Universal Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
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