Trailer Towed By 2007 Ford F150 Has No Running or Brake Lights

Question:

I have turn signal lights on the trailer but no running lights or brake lights. I cleaned all connectors and tested the power coming into the connector from the truck. The only wire I have power coming into the connector is the wire for the turn signals..Any suggestions would be very helpful.

asked by: Richard D

Helpful Expert Reply:

If you're only getting power to reach the trailer connector on the turn signal circuits, it sounds like you have one or more blown tow package fuses. The fuses protecting the tow package are usually in the power distribution box under the hood. The owners manual and the lid of the fuse box should have a legend showing which fuse protects which circuits. Locate and replace the blown fuses.

Before plugging the trailer back into the vehicle, you'll need to locate the short circuit in the trailer wiring that causes the fuses to blow. Begin with the trailer connector, checking for corrosion or damage. Next, check the wiring on the trailer, looking for pinched wires, loose connections or worn/cracked wiring insulation that would allow the trailer wiring to short out on the trailer frame. Failure to locate and repair the short will mean you will continue to blow fuses.

I have linked you to our trailer wiring help article that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Mike L