Trailer Brakes Activate Every Time Turn Signal is Used

Updated 06/06/2024 | Published 03/22/2015

Question:

Hi. I install electric brakes in my trailer. Brakes work but every time I use the turn signal the brakes start braking with the turn signal too. every blink stop and go. What I did wrong. Thanks

asked by: Rey

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you wired the brakes into the combined stop/turn signal circuit on the trailer. Trailers use what is called a combined system meaning that the brake lights and turn signals are on the same tire. So when you are using the turn signal the wire is energized and will apply the trailer brakes when the light blinks.

To use the electrical trailer brakes you have to have a dedicated wire just for the brakes and you must use a brake controller in the tow vehicle. The most common set up is to have a 7-Way blade style trailer connector on both the tow vehicle and the trailer.

I can make some recommendations but I would need to know the year, make, and model of the vehicle and what type of trailer connector it is using (4-Way, 5-Way, 6-Way, or 7-Way).

expert reply by: Michael H

Nick

6/6/2024

Hi Michael I have exactly the same problem On my Silverado 3500 2005 6.6 LS I have brand new brake control Brand new junction box Brand new electric brake The connection For the lights from the trailer is 4 way wire, The trailer brake is separate wire I bought 14 ga wire for the brake. What you recommend.

Jerred H.

6/6/2024

@Nick It sounds like you need a Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller item # ETBC7 to add a 7-Way connector to your Silverado. Then for your trailer you would need a 7-way connector like item # H20044. If you already have a junction box like item # 3375601101 then you'll just need the wire you mentioned.