Troubleshooting Trailer Light Wiring with a 2012 Ram 1500 Tow Vehicle
Question:
I had a dodge 2010 and my boat lights worked with it. I got a 2012 ram 1500 and the lights wont work????? any ideas?
asked by: Scotty
Expert Reply:
To determine if the issue is on your 2012 Ram 1500 or the trailer you will need to disconnect the trailer and use a circuit tester such as # PTW2993 to test the vehicle side connector. With the running lights on, test the pins on the vehicle side connector. If there is no power at the connector, then the issue is on the truck. If there is power at the vehicle connector, then the issue is on the trailer.
You can check to see if the tow package fuses and relays are present or just bad by using your 2012 Ram 1500 owner's manual to find the fuse and relay locations.
If the issues revert back to the trailer, you may have a ground issue. 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. Also, looking for any cut or damaged wires on your trailer to locate a lost connection and fix as necessary.
I included a few FAQ's and video installation for you too.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Search Results: 57015
- Search Results: 56229
- Shop: Curt Replacement OEM USCAR Trailer Connector - Dual Connection - 7-Way RV Style and 4-Way Flat
- Shop: Curt Universal Wiring Harness for Vehicle-End Trailer Connectors
- Shop: B&W Rubber Cover for Empty Turnoverball Socket
- Video: Finding the Right Trailer Wiring Harness
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Shop: Curt Powered Tail Light Converter with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Shop: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Search Results: brake controller
- Video: Installing the Curt Replacement OEM USCAR Trailer Connector on a 2024 Ford Bronco
- Video: Comprehensive Review: Curt Replacement OEM USCAR Trailer Connector
- Shop: Mounting Bracket 4-Pole Flat
- Search Results: trailer brake controller
- Video: How to Install the Curt Class III Trailer Hitch - 2024 Chevrolet Colorado
- Search Results: 40975
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Video: Curt Universal Wiring Harness for Vehicle-End Trailer Connectors Review
- Shop: etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Video: Mount: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver on a 2024 GMC Canyon
- Video: Setting up the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver on your 2023 Chevrolet Colorado
- Q&A: Trailer Running Lights Do Not Work but Brake Lights and Turn Signals Do Work
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: How to Test Brake Controller without Trailer Connected
- Q&A: How to Hook Light Bar Up to Work with High Beams on Vehicle
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch
on Wiring
