prodigy Brake Controller Shows Dot, Locks Trailer Brakes After Breakaway Activates Trailer Brakes

Question:

The breakaway cable snagged on a tight turn and deployed. Now the controller shows one dot and locks the brakes which is probably a failsafe measure. How do I reset the controller? Is there an internal fuse? A transistor to replace? I have surface mount skills if needed.

asked by: Laurence M

Expert Reply:

It sounds like there may be a short on the blue wire. With the trailer connected to the tow vehicle use a circuit tester such as # PTW2993 to test the blue wire behind the controller. If it shows power, then disconnect the trailer. If it still shows power, sever the blue wire from the back of the controller and test the end coming out of the controller. If it still shows power at idle and not just when using the manual override, then there is an internal problem, and the controller will need to be replaced.

If you test the blue wire with the trailer connected and there is no power on the blue wire, then the likely issue is the breakaway system is still sending power to the trailer brakes.

If there is power on the blue wire without the trailer connected, then there is likely a short caused by corrosion in the trailer connector or something could have been knocked loose in the faux breakaway situation.

You can also try unplugging the controller for about 5 minutes or so and then plugging it back in and that might be all it needs. I have included some links on testing and troubleshooting brake controllers and brake away systems.

expert reply by: Michael H