Troubleshooting Trailer Light Wiring with a 2012 Ram 1500 Tow Vehicle

Updated 04/16/2015 | Published 04/15/2015

Question:

I had a dodge 2010 and my boat lights worked with it. I got a 2012 ram 1500 and the lights wont work????? any ideas?

asked by: Scotty

Expert Reply:

To determine if the issue is on your 2012 Ram 1500 or the trailer you will need to disconnect the trailer and use a circuit tester such as # PTW2993 to test the vehicle side connector. With the running lights on, test the pins on the vehicle side connector. If there is no power at the connector, then the issue is on the truck. If there is power at the vehicle connector, then the issue is on the trailer.

You can check to see if the tow package fuses and relays are present or just bad by using your 2012 Ram 1500 owner's manual to find the fuse and relay locations.

If the issues revert back to the trailer, you may have a ground issue. Ground problems normally show up when there is more draw on a system such as when you have the running lights on and then use another function like a turn signal or brake light.

Make sure that the vehicle side and trailer side connectors are clean and free of corrosion inside and out. The main connector grounds should be attached to clean and corrosion free bare metal surfaces.

The light grounds should also be attached to clean and corrosion free bare metal surfaces. If there is anything between a light ground and the metal trailer frame or if the trailer has an aluminum frame, tilt bed, or folding tongue, any of these things can interrupt the ground. Running jumper wires from the light grounds to the main trailer connector ground can help. Also, looking for any cut or damaged wires on your trailer to locate a lost connection and fix as necessary.

I included a few FAQ's and video installation for you too.

expert reply by: Chris B