Troubleshooting Prodigy Trailer Brake Controller Causing Dash Light Errors

Published 02/03/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Replacement Brake Control Plug-In Harness for Tekonsha and Draw-Tite Brake Controller 12" Long

(731)

$15.95

Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(6682)

$163.51

Question:

I was having problems with my 08 silverado, my abs light, brake light and traction control lights kept coming on randomly and then would shut off like if I hit a bump. I tried all kinds of things and nothing seemed to be working. One day while working on it I noticed the lights were on my prodigy trailer brake controller, I hadnt touched the brakes. I walked away for a bit and they were still on. I unplugged the controller and the lights havent turned on since. Would my controller be bad or is it wiring, I dont wanna buy a new controller if it really isnt broke. Thank you

asked by: RJ L

Expert Reply:

Sounds like it could be the way your brake controller was installed. I would first check the connection of the red wire, this should be connected to the brake light switch wire that is only active (hot) when the brakes are pressed.

Since you have a 2008 this newer body style has been known to need to be hardwired when installing the brake controller to function properly. I have linked a step by step Help Article for you to look at.

I would also recommend to clean out any corrosion inside of and outside of the trailer connector and inspect the wiring to it. The fact that the lights go out when a bump is hit would indicate a loose connection or short.

If you could you tell me which Prodigy brake controller you have, P3 # 90195 or P2 # 90885, and what is showing up on the display screen when the errors are occurring, I would be more than happy to continue to troubleshoot this issue with you.

expert reply by: Jackie C