Trailer Lights Not Working Correctly Using a 2004 Chevy Silverado

Published 04/22/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Pollak Replacement 7-Pole, RV-Style Trailer Connector Socket - Vehicle End

(745)

$15.54

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

(66)

$13.42

Question:

I recently started having a problem with my factory installed trailer lighting, I have gone through the system and no matter what I try it isnt working. It seems like my Ground wire in the harness is all burned up. I have been using it for years and now I have a major malfunction. is there any way to change the ground up to the front or can I bypass the factory system?

asked by: Donald S

Expert Reply:

First, we need to figure out if the problem is on your 2004 Chevy Silverado or on the trailer. To do that disconnect the trailer and we can focus on the truck side trailer connector.

Since you think it may be a ground issue you can use a circuit tester such as # PTW2993. Attach the clip to the ground pin (if looking at the pins in a 7-Way trailer connector it is the pin in the 7 o'clock position). You would then go through the lighting functions by having someone sit in the truck and turn the running lights on, brake lights, turn signals, while you test. If the ground was bad, they would not light up the test light or would only partially work.

While you are at the trailer connector take a minute to clean the connector of any dirt or corrosion inside and out. Make sure you inspect the wires going into the back of the connector for corrosion as well.

If everything is working on the vehicle side, then that means the problem is on the trailer. Make sure its connector is also clean and free of corrosion inside and out. If you suspect a ground issue, there are some things you can do. 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. I have linked a couple of help articles that should also help.

expert reply by: Michael H