Brake Controller Applies Trailer Brakes When Headlights are Turned On
Question:
My system works fine until my headlights are on and then the brakes activate as though you applied brake pedal. I have a gmc sierra 1500 2000 model and am plugged in box under dash. I have auto headlights. Any ideas?
asked by: Richard T
Expert Reply:
The first thing to check would be to make sure the brake controller is in the right port on the block underneath the dash. It should be the second port from the left on the top row. I have included a link to the instructions for your particular truck.
It is possible that your truck did not come with the appropriate wiring to the rear of the vehicle. If the brake controller is in the correct port and it still does not function properly, then you will have to hardwire the brake controller according to Steps 3 and 4 in the instruction file I have included a link to.
It is also possible that the trailer or vehicle is wired incorrectly and has the taillight signal swapped with the brake controller signal on the 7-Way connector. I have included a link to a page with a 7-Way trailer connector diagram. Make sure your vehicle and trailer follow this pattern. You can use a circuit tester like part # 40376 to check.
If you have any more problems, let us know what you find and we will trying to help you further.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: Turning On Running Lights Activates Trailer Brakes on a Brake Controller in a 1999 Chevy Silverado
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Trailer Brakes that Engage when Headlights are Turned On, 2000 Chevy Silverado
- Shop: Roof Rack
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Q&A: How To Find The Correct Brake Signal Wire When Installing A Brake Controller
- Q&A: Prodigy Brake Controller Only Shows n.c Code after Charging the Vehicle Battery
- Q&A: My New Brake Controller Prodigy P2 Says n.c. Trailer Brakes are Not Connected
- Q&A: Wiring a Brake Controller to My 2003 Chevrolet Trailblazer
- Search Results: 7 pin trailer wiring harness
- Search Results: trailer brake controller
- Article: Parts Needed to Add Electric Drum Brakes to a Trailer
- Q&A: Electric Trailer Brakes not Working
- Shop: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness for Factory Tow Package - 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Video: Draw-Tite Front Mount Trailer Hitch Installation - 2011 Ford F-450 Super Duty
- Article: Troubleshooting Brake Controller Installations
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Shop: Draw-Tite Front Mount Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - 2"
- Shop: EcoHitch Hidden Front Mount Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - 2"
- Shop: Front Mount Hitch
- Search Results: front receiver hitch
- Shop: Roadmaster Hitch Spare Tire Mount with 2" Receiver Opening - 2" Hitches
- Shop: Roadmaster Spare Tire Mount
- Search Results: roadmaster spare tire carrier
- Search Results: rr43178
- Search Results: rr43105
- Search Results: rhino roof rack
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
on Wiring
