Will New Brake Controller Have Burning Plastic Smell When Installed

Published 04/10/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(2763)

$159.00

Tekonsha Custom Wiring Adapter for Trailer Brake Controllers - Dual Plug In

(79)

$15.79

Question:

Hello, I just installed a prodigy p2 with a tekonsha 3014-p wiring harness on a 2015 jeep cheorkee. On the first tow I smelled what might be brakes but more like burning plastic. I think the smell was coming from inside the car and not the trailer. Is this normal for a break-in period? Thank you,

asked by: Evan

Expert Reply:

Since you installed the P2, part # 90885 and the # 3014-P harness on your 2015 Jeep Cherokee, you should not have a burning plastic smell. This should be a very simple install.

You did not say if the controller stopped working so I don't know if it was in use when you experienced the smell. I would take the controller out and see if the smell is coming from the controller or if you can locate the origin of the smell. There may be a short in the wiring somewhere that is unassociated to the brake controller. I would also recommend that you make sure that no wires or other components were damaged when the mounting bracket was installed.

If you find that the smell is indeed from the controller, I would recommend returning it to the retailer and have it checked out and repaired or replaced.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L