Troubleshooting Trailer Wiring that Stops Working When Vehicle Headlights are Turned On

Published 10/07/2015

Question:

I just installed a curt to connector wiring harness 55377 on a 2000 Chevy express van. When the headlamps are on I have no turn signals unless the brakes are applied. All the van lights work properly. What are some of the possible problems that could cause this issue?

asked by: Travis P

Expert Reply:

The problem you are having is a classic ground issue. If the ground wire to the trailer frame or the tail light grounds are not connected securely to clean, rust and paint free surfaces then when the headlights are turned the extra amperage draw for the running lights will cause all sorts of lighting issues.

I would start by removing the ground wire at the trailer coupler and cleaning up the connection point and re-securing it to the trailer frame. Next I would check the ground connection of the trailer lights. Usually they are grounded through the mounting bolts for the lights. Make sure that the connection is clean and free of paint, rust and debris and, if there is a plastic license plate holder on the drivers side, make sure that it is not inhibiting the lights ground. Finally if the trailer light mounting brackets are bolted to the trailer frame you should remove them clean up that connection point also.

These simple steps should get you going and ensure that your trailer lights will work properly.

expert reply by: Jameson C