2008 Chevy Silverado 2500 factory Brake Controller Shows Service Trailer Brake System

Updated 07/27/2015 | Published 07/25/2015

Question:

I have a 2008 Chevrolet 2500HD Duramax and when I start the truck when there is a trailer hooked up and when there isnt a message comes on my screen saying service trailer brake system. Any suggestions will be good I have checked a few things but dont seem to find the problem.

asked by: Cole J

Expert Reply:

There could be a short somewhere that is causing that error message to show up. The most likely culprit is a dirty or corroded trailer connector. Make sure that the truck AND trailer connectors are clean and free of corrosion inside where the wires attach and on the pins.

If it occurs when a trailer is connected then it could be a problem with the brake magnets or trailer wiring to the magnets. Make sure the wiring is in good shape and not pinched or frayed and that the ground wires are attached to clean and corrosion free bare metal surfaces.

You can visually inspect the magnets and if you can see the copper windings coming through the magnets will need to be replaced. To further test the magnets you can follow the help article I have linked.

expert reply by: Michael H