Troubleshooting Hopkins Impulse Trailer Brake Controller Error Message OE

Updated 05/20/2025 | Published 10/21/2018

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Question:

I have a Hopkins Impulse brake controller that, when I press the brake pedal, the number starts climbing and around 13 changes to what looks like a OE on the display. What does this code mean? Im towing a 2018 Aliner Ranger 12 with a 2007 Tacoma.

asked by: Jared C

Expert Reply:

The troubleshooting guide for the Hopkins Impulse trailer brake controller does not list an error code "OE" but if the unit displays a flashing code "SC" this indicates a short on the brake output circuit or a defective brake magnet, which is unlikely on a new Aliner. Those error codes can sometimes be difficult to read. My Hopkins contact said much older versions has error codes E1, E2, E3 but not OE.

I suggest taking a close look at your Tacoma's trailer connector. Corrosion issues on (or even inside) a 7-way vehicle socket can lead to connection problems with a brake controller as well as with trailer lighting. Unplug the wiring connector from the back of the Tacoma's 7-way and check for signs of oxidation (greenish or whitish discoloration on the contacts). If you see anything other than bright clean contact surfaces apply an aerosol electrical contact cleaner like Caig De-Oxit or something similar that can dissolve corrosion. Once clean apply dielectric grease like # 11755 to those contact surfaces to protect them.

Also make sure your Impulse is mounted correctly as outlined in the instructions that I linked for you.

If you cannot get it to function I recommend replacing it with a reliable Prodigy P2 # 90885 and the mating harness # 3040-P.

expert reply by: Adam R

Garry G.

6/19/2024

I have a Hopkins Impulse controller on a 2004 Dodge 3500. The unit will activate the electric/hydraulic pump with the brake pedal and when the manual button is pressed. After a few seconds the SC code activates when the brakes are released.. Continuity checks verify the wiring thru the 4 pin connector and applying 12v to the blue wire with a jumper wire. Pulling the breakaway switch works to activate the hydraulic pump. Any suggestions? Is the P-3 a better unit for hydraulic disc brakes use?

Lazer S.

6/19/2024

@GarryG Though the Hopkins Impulse brake controller technically says it is compatible with electric over hydraulic brake set ups, I strongly recommend going with a different controller. The Impulse is a time delayed controller and will amp up the power (pun intended) while either the brake pedal or manual override are depressed. This is old technology and isn't the best way to do it anymore. The Tekonsha Prodigy P3 # 90195 uses proportion technology (basically an accelerometer) so it will apply the brakes as much as the towing vehicle is braking, which is significantly safer. This is also one of, if not the best controllers on the market and works with electric and electric over hydraulic brake systems (just select which is needed while setting it up), so I highly recommend it. It also comes with a pigtail that has bare wires on the end to splice into your existing wiring, but if you have the factory tow package on your truck, you can also grab the # 3020-P to have a plug and play set up. As to the "SC" code you are getting, it is referring to either a short in the blue brake wire (which you already checked, so it isn't that), or a problem with the brake magnets. Since you do not have brake magnets, I would say it is malfunctioning and most likely needs to just be replaced. It could be something more specific with how it is interacting with your actuator, but we do not carry this controller and I honestly have no experience with it. But even if I did, I don't think I would ever recommend a time delayed controller for an electric over hydraulic brake set up.

Russ

5/16/2025

My break controller doesn't show any numbers when the breaks are applied

Robin H.

5/20/2025

@Russ what brake controller do you have? I'm assuming it has power and the display goes out when you apply the brakes? Are the brakes still working or do they not function at all?