Troubleshooting Brakes Locking Up In Reverse Using Tekonsha P3 Brake Controller

Updated 03/16/2017 | Published 03/15/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

(66)

$14.40

Question:

p3 shows no trailer connected when doing set up???? Also brakes locked up when I backed up.

asked by: M B

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you have a some corrosion or a short somewhere in your system and the issue is most likely not with your Tekonsha P3 # 90195. I recommend starting with cleaning your trailer connector on both the vehicle and trailer side using some sand paper or steel wool. Slight corrosion can cause power to jump from one pin function to another which may be your issue.

If that doesn't solve your issue, I recommend using a circuit tester like # PTW2993 to check the functions of your brake controller at your connector as you may have a short circuit with your trailer wiring. You will need wheel chocks and a trusted friend to assist you in walking through each pin for function to troubleshoot. You'll then need to replace wire when you find the short as you trace it back. If all pin functions on your vehicle work, then you will trace it from your connection back to the trailer brakes looking for shorts while connected to your vehicle.

I've attached a couple articles to assist.

expert reply by: Jason S