Brake Controller Installed on 2007 Escalade- No Signal from Brake Switch Wire

Updated 07/11/2015 | Published 07/09/2015

Question:

Hi, I installed my Tekonsha Prodigy brake controller in my 2007 Escalade. I pulled the wires down from under the dash and hooked them up according to your instructions and the instructions on the label wrapped around the wires. I also hooked up the wires to the studs under the hood. Checked the fuses for the studs and all looks good. The controller shows a C for connection when it is hooked to the trailer and the brake lights work on the truck and trailer. However the electric brakes will not engage when the pedal is depressed. I can get them to engage by applying them manually with the lever on the brake controller. I used a test light on the wire coming from the brake switch and there is no signal there even when the pedal is pressed. First thing I did was go buy a new brake switch. I changed that and still I have no brake signal. Any suggestions or help would be great. Thanks

asked by: Brad C

Expert Reply:

When you state that the brake lamps worked, did you check the third brake lamp at the rear of the vehicle? This circuit is what the stop lamp switch is wired into.

Go to the fuse box under the hood, and look for the CHMSL (center high mounted stop lamp) fuse. The owner's manual or the lid of the fuse box should have a fuse diagram showing which fuses protect which circuits. Replace the CHMSL fuse, and you should find that your brake controller is now functioning.

Also, keep in mind that a proportional controller like the Prodigy won't actuate the trailer brakes with the brake pedal unless the vehicle is in motion.

If the third brake lamp isn't the problem, please get back with me and we'll check some other less likely possibilities.

expert reply by: Mike L