Is the Pilot Brake Light Hitch Cover # CR-007 Suppose to Flash When Right Turn Signal is Applied

Question:

I have a 2012 ford explorer with a dealer installed 4 wire connector. I added a hitch cover brake light that plugs into the connector using just the green and white wires. The light works fine with the brakes but flashes when the right turn signal is turned on. Looking at the above wiring description for a 4 wire setup this appears to be normal. Am I correct in this interpretation? If so, it appears that using a hitch cover brake light would not be recommended with a 4 wire set up. thanks,

asked by: Brian

Expert Reply:

On a hitch cover like the Pilot Brake Light Hitch Cover, part # CR-007, that uses just the green and white wires, the right turn signal is flashing because the hitch cover is using the right turn signal/brake circuit which is a combined circuit. This will happen on a hitch cover that only uses the two wires.

However, Pilot does make a cover that will not blink when you turn on the signals. It is the Pilot Brake Light Hitch Cover, part # CR-007A. It has a converter in line with the wiring that filters out anything but brake and running lights. It is designed for 2 inch trailer hitches.

I am including a link to a FAQ page on trailer wiring and a link to a product page that will show the lighted hitch covers that we carry.

expert reply by: Jeff D