Electric Trailer Brake Controller Turns On with Trailer Running Lights

Question:

The brake controller will come on when I turn my running lights on the trailer. I took the plug apart on the truck everything wired correctly the lights work like they should on both of my trailers,7-way RV plug. Maybe Im overlooking something Thanks

asked by: Jesse

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you might have a wiring mix-up or short so that's what you'd need to look over. The controller should have power at all times as it's to be wired directly to the battery. It will go into sleep mode when you leave the vehicle and wake back up when you enter. If the controller only reads a trailer is connected when the running lights are on then that likely means there is a short or mix-up between the running light wire (usually brown) and the brake output wire (usually blue) on the trailer or vehicle. I have attached a general wiring diagram below for trailer brake controllers so you can reference.

If you would like to upgrade controllers for more features such as a proportional design for better braking and boost settings for more power I recommend the Tekonsha BRAKE-EVN Trailer Brake Controller part # TK63VR.

expert reply by: Conner L