Trailer Tail Lights and Turn Signals Not Working Properly when Connected to 2014 Ford Taurus
Published 09/04/2015
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Question:
Installed a trailer wiring harness on my 2014 Ford Taurus. Trailer lights do not work, and when I try the turn signals they both flash on the car, the activated light normal the other dim. Any ideas?
asked by: David S
Expert Reply:
When some trailer lights are not working and others are not working like they are supposed to it can be an indication of a ground problem. But before looking at the wiring on the trailer you can test the vehicle side to see if it is providing the proper electrical signals to the 4-Way.
Using a circuit tester such as # PTW2993 test the wires going into the converter box from your 2014 Ford Taurus (with the trailer not connected). If you are not getting the correct signals coming into the box then that indicates a problem with the vehicle wiring. But since this is a relatively new vehicle that seems unlikely.
If the signals are correct, then test the wires coming out of the converter box leading to the 4-Way. If the signals are not correct there, then make sure the white ground wire is attached to a clean bare metal surface, no paint or coating.
If it still is not working, then the wiring harness will have to be replaced with a new harness such as # 118599 (installation video linked).
If everything is correct on the vehicle side then the issue is on the trailer somewhere; likely a bad ground. Ground problems normally show up when there is more draw on a system such as when you have the running lights on and then use another function like a turn signal or brake light but can occur at any time.
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.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Vehicle End Connector
- Powered Converter
- No Tow Package
- 4 Flat
- Plug and Lead
- Plug-In
- Hidden
- CURT
more information >
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