Trailer Running Lights Stopped Working when Connected to a 2003 Ford Ranger

Published 09/30/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

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T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

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Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires

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Question:

I got a 2003 ranger with factory trailer wiring plug. However, the wire for the running lights is not working all the way back to the main wiring. I figure it would be easier to install a new wiring kit than try to figure out the problem. Will the c55344 work on my ranger that was prewired so I can just cut off the old plug?

asked by: Jeff

Expert Reply:

It might be easier to fix the running light malfunction on your 2003 Ford Ranger tow package wiring than you might think. If it is just a tow package fuse that is blown you can replace the fuse. But you will have to make sure that whatever blew the fuse in the first place is fixed first.

Make sure the truck side and trailer side connectors are clean and free of corrosion inside where the wires attach and outside on the pins. Inspect the trailer wiring for any pinched or damaged wires and fix as needed. And make sure that the lights are grounded to clean and corrosion free bare metal surfaces.

If this does not fix the issue then you can install a 4-Way trailer connector, # 118344, which plugs in line with the vehicle tail light wiring. To add a 7-Way though you would also need to install # ETBC7 after installing the 4-Way. I have linked a video that shows how the ETBC7 is installed on a similar truck.

expert reply by: Michael H