Installed Hopkins Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring Harness, # 31345, On 2005 Chevy Express, No Brake Lights  

Question:

Expert Reply:

You might have a weak ground problem that is causing the brake lights not to work.

The three areas where you will want to check to make sure you are getting a good ground is the ground wire from the converter in the wiring harness, the ground wire of the connector on the trailer and the trailer lights are grounded to the trailer.

First, you will want to check the white wire on your wiring harness that is coming out of the converter. You want to make sure it is attached to a good, clean surface on the vehicle frame.

Next, check the ground wire that is on the connector on the trailer to make sure it is making a good, clean ground to metal.

Then, check the ground on the lights on the trailer. The lights can be grounded two ways, either by a wire coming out of the lights and being attached to the metal frame or by the bolts of the tail lamp assembly being attached to the metal frame.

If that does not work you will want to make sure the trailer is not connected, then use a circuit tester, part # PTW2993 if needed, to test the brake light wire going into the converter for power. Then test the brake light wire coming out of the converter for power.

If you have power going in and not coming out of the brake light wire, then you may need to replace the converter. If you have to replace the converter, make sure when installing a new converter that there are no shorts on the trailer.

I am sending a link to instructions on troubleshooting your trailer wiring.

expert reply by: Jeff D

0