Trailer Brake Lights and Turn Signals Not Working with 2006 Honda Pilot

Updated 05/04/2015 | Published 05/02/2015

Question:

I have a 2006 Honda Pilot that had factory tow package. I have rilunning lights on the trailer. But no brake or turn signals. I installed the primis iq and your trailer brake system converter today, hopping it would fix it. I have power to the trailer brakes and nothing shorted out. Not sure what to do now. I saw a video about installing the the 4 pin on the 2006 Honda Pilot. Does that part # 118336 ever go bad?

asked by: Cody M

Expert Reply:

Output for electric trailer brakes is on a different circuit than the combined turn signal and brake lights so adding a brake controller would not help.

The likely issue is a blown fuse or relay on the vehicle tow package wiring. Use the owners manual to find the locations of fuses/relays related to the tow package wiring to check them.

It is possible for any wiring harness to go bad. I have included a couple of links that explains how to test vehicle wide wiring and a converter box. If the vehicle side tests fine then the issue is on the trailer. Check for pinched or broken wires and repair as needed.

It could also be a ground issue. 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.

expert reply by: Michael H