Trailer Lights Help

Question:

I have a 7 pin connector. When I plug it up to the tow vehicle, trailer lights come on as if the headlights are on. With no lights being turned on in the vehicle, I have tail and running lights. Any help would be appreciated.

asked by: Henry

Expert Reply:

The first thing to do is take a look at your owner's manual to locate any fuses or relays and ensure they are all there and in working order. If they are, in order to determine the specific problem you will need a circuit tester like # PTW2993 to test the connector on your vehicle after disconnecting it from your trailer. Check the wiring going into your harness from your tail lights to see if those wires are carrying the correct signals, if not then the issue is with the vehicle wiring.

If the signals going to your harness are okay, you'll need to test the signals coming out of the harness, and if they are correct then your issue is likely going to be with the trailer side wiring. You will also want to check both your vehicle and trailer connectors for corrosion, which can be green or white in color. A build-up of corrosion can interfere with the signals getting through the connectors so if it is present you are going to need to replace the plug with # PK12706 for the trailer side. You'll also need to make sure your grounds are attached to bare metal surfaces and free of any paint, dirt or corrosion.

I have added a link below to a help article on trailer wiring for you to take a look at which may also be of use. Additionally, to help prevent any type of corrosion in your connector, and increase its durability and lifespan I highly recommend using Dielectric Grease for Electrical Connectors # 11755.

expert reply by: Kyle S