Can Trailer Brakes Lock Up if a Breakaway System has a Dead Battery

Updated 02/18/2016 | Published 02/17/2016

Question:

should the brakes lock up with a dead battery?

asked by: John

Expert Reply:

No, if the breakaway battery on the trailer is dead and the pin is pulled out of the switch then no power would be sent to the trailer brakes and they would not lock up. If they do lock up then the brakes must be getting power from another source or the battery isn't dead.

I recommend checking the wiring for shorts and corrosion and fix any pinched or damaged wires as needed. If you suspect the breakaway system is bad I recommend replacing it. One of the most popular systems we carry is # 20099 which is a complete kit with a charger and tester.

expert reply by: Michael H