Rental Trailer Lights Not Working with 2011 Mercedes ML350 and Prodigy RF Brake Controller

Updated 01/12/2015 | Published 01/11/2015

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Pollak Metal 7-Pole, RV-Style Trailer Socket - Vehicle End

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Trailer Connector Adapter w/ Lamp-Out Sensor Bypass - 7-Way RV to 7-Way RV - Vehicle End

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Tekonsha Prodigy RF Wireless Brake Controller - Trailer Mount w Remote - 1 to 3 Axles - Proportional

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Question:

I have a 2011mercedes ml 350 bluetec with factory towing package. I tried to rent a 23 foot 2012 airstream trailer. I connected the airstream to a prodigy RF brake controller which I connected to the mercedes. The prodigy was paired. I tested the trailer lights which did not respond to brake pressure or the turn signals. Does the Mercedes need to be reprogrammed or is there a product which can adapt the plugs to work?

asked by: Robert R

Expert Reply:

The Prodigy RF brake controller # TK94FR is a sensitive unit. You will need to make sure you follow the hooking up procedures to the letter or it may not work properly.

If you still have problems make sure that none of the tow package fuses on your 2011 Mercedes ML350 are blown.

It is also possible that the trailer lights were the problem. I would assume the rental place would check that and not leave it up to you! If the trailer happened to have LED lights you would need a special adapter, # 20142, in order for the lights to work.

You can test the vehicle side connector to make sure the vehicle is not the issue by following the help article I have linked. You will need a circuit tester such as # 3808 or a multimeter if you do not already have one.

expert reply by: Michael H