Troubleshooting Reliance Brake Controller Not Activating Trailer Brakes on 2009 Nissan Titan

Updated 12/06/2010 | Published 12/03/2010

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Activator IV Trailer Brake Controller - Up to 4 Axles - Time Delayed

(357)

$103.67

Curt Relay Kit for Nissan Armada or Titan Aftermarket Tow Package

(158)

$31.30

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

(60)

$12.41

Question:

I have a Reliance controller. When I press the brake pedal down I get a reading saying the brake are not connected. If I push the red manual switch while the pedal is pressed then I get the power reading on the controller and the brakes are applied. The controller is connected to the underdash plug on a 2009 Titan with factory tow package. Any help will be appreciated. The is a new truck, on the old Titan the controller worked great.

asked by: Richard P

Expert Reply:

I will be happy to help troubleshoot the problem you are having with the Reliance brake controller and your 2009 Nissan Titan. I can think of 3 possible causes that may lead to the trouble you are having. First, the wire on the vehicle that provides the braking signal could be having problems. On the brake controller wiring harness, it is the pin that has the red wire.

A couple of things to check on the harness and the connection point on the vehicle. First, using a circuit tester like part # PTW2993, test the pin on the vehicle side connection point for the brake controller that corresponds with the pin with the red wire on the brake controller harness. When you step on the brake it should carry a signal. If it does, make sure the matching pin on the brake controller harness is in the correct location in the plug. If it is not, you will have to move it to the correct position.

If the pin is in the correct spot, plug it in and test the wiring leading to the brake controller. If a wire is broken inside, it can cause the problem you are having.

If you test the vehicle side connection point and do not get a signal at any of the pins when you step on the brake, there could be a different issue. First, the tow package on the 2009 Nissan Titan uses a series of relays that allow full use of the tow package. If your truck is missing one or one is blown, the brake controller may not work. You should be able to locate the relays in the power distribution box using the owner's manual as a guide. You can also check to see what, if any, fuses are associated with the brake controller and check those as well. If you end up needing any of the relays, you can use part # C57000.

If the wiring on the vehicle side connection point is correct, and the wiring leading to the brake controller is correct, then there is a problem with the internal circuitry of the brake controller and it will need to be replaced.

expert reply by: Michael H