Troubleshooting Intermittent Brake Controller Issues on a 2012 Chevy Silverado 2500HD

Question:

I get ABS, anti sway, and check trailer lights coming on at random. Trailer light warning comes on even with no trailer attached. When these error occur I lose my trailer brakes. Not fun going through the mountains with 8000 lb on the hitch. I have a 2012 2500 Silverodo HD 6ltr gas truck. Sometimes turning off engine and restart will clear problem. I have a Fixd error reader...it shows no errors....no errors from repair shop. Any help???? Thanks

asked by: Vincent N

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you have an OEM brake controller on your 2012 Chevy Silverado 2500HD. If you aren't seeing any codes with a reader and this happens at random then you will need to speak with your nearest Chevy dealer to see if they have a solution or replace the OEM controller with an aftermarket option.

I recommend going with the aftermarket option as we have found that the aftermarket controllers are much more reliable. For your application I recommend using the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 # 90195 because it has an LCD screen that tells you exactly what is going on when/if there is a malfunction. This takes all of the frustration out of trying to remember what a code means or using a code reader and hoping that something pops up. With this option there are no plug-in connectors under your driver's side dash but there are blunt cut wires that you splice the included pigtail to. You will connect the wires from the pigtail to the following wires:

Red/Black - Black
White - White
Light Blue/White - Red
Dark Blue - Blue
Orange N/A Center High Mount Stop Lamp (CHMSL) (might be there)

Attached is a helpful article that highlights exactly what needs to be done to install an aftermarket controller on your pickup. If you happen to be talking about an aftermarket controller please let me know what controller you are using and I can look into this further for you.

expert reply by: Jon G