Troubleshooting Check Engine Light on a Chevy Express Van When Brake Controller is Installed

Published 05/08/2015

Products Featured in This Question

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

(2763)

$151.23

40 Amp In-Line Circuit Breaker - Perpendicular Mount Bracket

(97)

$9.84

Question:

The brake controller is installed and works fine 7pin for the trailer but the check engine light comes on. The hot lead to the brake controller is tapped into a 10 amp fuse Body Control Module 1 and chevy says this is correct. If I disconnect the hot lead the check engine light goes out. One of the mechanics said the brake light circuit is 5v. The brake controller is 12 v, do I need a 12vdc voltage converter to 5 vdc? I really need to solve this problem with the check engine light. Thanks for your help.

asked by: Gary I

Helpful Expert Reply:

You need to run the power wire of your brake controller directly to the positive post of your vehicle battery through a circuit breaker like the part # 9510. This is how we recommend every brake controller get installed when being hardwired to a vehicle. This will prevent the check engine light from staying on.

I attached a help article on installing brake controllers for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C