Pod/PowerTrac Brake Controller Just Shows Red Light and Trailer Brakes Dont Work

Updated 08/15/2016 | Published 08/13/2016

Question:

I have electric trailer brakes. Recently my pod system in my truck usually has a green light and my trailer brakes work it is now and red when I hit the brakes my trailer brake and light do not work. Any idea what my problem could be?

asked by: Gordon

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you potentially have a problem on the red wire on your brake controller. This is the wire that tells the brake controller that you are stepping on the brake pedal and also sends power through the brake switch to light up the brake lights on the vehicle (when using the manual override lever).

The red wire may need to be reconnected depending on if it is hardwired in or if you used a vehicle-specific connector. It also could mean that the vehicle has a blown stop light or CHMSL fuse.

Also check the trailer and vehicle side connectors and make sure they are clean and free of corrosion inside where the wires attach and outside on the pins. I have included some links on how to test and troubleshoot brake controllers along with a video the circuit controller # PTW2993 in action.

It also could be the trailer magnets or wiring. I have included a link that explains how to test brake magnets.

expert reply by: Michael H