Trailer Lights Go Out When Pressing Brake Pedal with 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt Trailer Wiring
Updated 09/29/2015 | Published 09/28/2015
Question:
Ok I installed the system for my 2006 Chevy Cobalt, looks great but when I hook up the trailer the lights dont work properly. The signals work, the 4 ways work, and the lights are on..... But here is the problem, when I push on the brakes the lights go out completely on both sides. Please help me with the wiring I am not even close to being good at this sort of thing, I am now stuck out at the cottage with no way of towing my trailer home.
asked by: Tim S
Expert Reply:
First, I recommend testing the 4-way flat trailer connector on the rear of your 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt. You will want to use a circuit tester, like # PTW2993, to test for right turn, left turn, and brake signal at the connector. I have attached a video demonstrating how the test the 4-way.
If everything is functioning properly at the connector, then you will want to move to the trailer. It sounds like it may be a ground issue. When you step on the brake, a higher voltage is require to turn on the brake lights, and this higher voltage isn't being supported by the ground and is causing the lights to go out. I recommend checking the grounds for the trailer lights to ensure that they are free of corrosion. It is also a good idea to check the wiring to make sure there are no tears or damage on the wires.
I have attached a help article on troubleshooting 4-way wiring installation.
