Brake Controller on 1995 Chevy Pickup Shows No Power when Stepping on Brake Pedal
Updated 06/16/2016 | Published 06/15/2016 >
Question:
My controller works if I manually activate it I hooked the red wire to the white wire on brake switch it will lite a test lite when I apply brakes but does not lite brake controller thought bout wiring it to the third brake lite under the sill plate but dont no which wire any help would b appreciated
asked by: Kevin T
Helpful Expert Reply:
On many vehicles there is more than one wire at the brake switch that can have power when the brake pedal is pressed. If the wire you are using now also has power with the head lights or turn signals on, then it is not the correct wire. Also, if you are testing the controller while sitting still then it may not show any power when you press on the brakes. Many proportional brake controllers are like this and will only work with the brake pedal if the controller senses movement, specifically deceleration.
Using the third brake like wire is a good option. But to figure out which wire is the correct one you will just need to test the wires using a circuit tester such as # PTW2993 or a meter while someone steps on the brake pedal.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Trailer Running Lights Do Not Work but Brake Lights and Turn Signals Do Work
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: How to Test Brake Controller without Trailer Connected
- Q&A: Recommended Bike Rack and Dual Hitch Adapter for Carrying E-Bikes While Flat Towing
- Q&A: Recommended Flat Tow Setup for a 2026 Ford Maverick
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Q&A: Trailer Turn Signals Both Blink when Just Left Turn Signal is Activated
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch
- Article: Installing an Electric Brake Controller on 2007-2013 GM Full-Size Truck or 2007-Present GM SUV
- Article: Brake Controller Installation for 2007 (New Body Style) - 2013 GMC Sierra and Chevy Silverado
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Right Side Trailer Lights Not Working, Left Side Working Correctly
- Article: Troubleshooting 4 and 5-Way Wiring Installations
- Q&A: How to Activate 12V Trailer Power Circuit on 2017 Ford F-350 Super Duty
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)


