Trailer Brake Lights Do Not Work on Trailer Towed by 2008 Jeep Patriot

Question:

When i press brakes trailer lights dont come on,when i turn on headlights the trailer lights work just not when press brakes? 2008 jeep patriot.

asked by: Niko M

Expert Reply:

It sounds like there could be either a wiring issue, short, or a ground problem that is causing the trailer brake lights to not work properly when towing with your 2008 Jeep Patriot.

Ground problems normally show up when there is more draw on a system such as when you have the running lights on and then use another function like a turn signal or brake light.

Make sure that the vehicle side and trailer side connectors are clean and free of corrosion inside and out. The main connector grounds should be attached to clean and corrosion free bare metal surfaces.

The light grounds should also be attached to clean and corrosion free bare metal surfaces. If there is anything between a light ground and the metal trailer frame or if the trailer has an aluminum frame, tilt bed, or folding tongue, any of these things can interrupt the ground. Running jumper wires from the light grounds to the main trailer connector ground can help.

I have also included a couple of links to the right that will explain how to troubleshoot the wiring.

expert reply by: Michael H