Does Trailer Coupler Need to be Attached to Trailer Hitch to Properly Test Rear Signal Lights

Updated 03/28/2017 | Published 03/25/2017

Question:

Hello, I was wondering if the trailer has to be attached at the hitch to the vehicle to properly test the lights after installation. Does it affect the proper ground? The ground is already attached to the trailer itself, I just didnt know if it had to be hooked up to the vehicle to test, thanks.

asked by: Graham H

Helpful Expert Reply:

The trailer does not need to be physically attached to your vehicle's trailer hitch to properly test its rear signal lights. As long as all the wiring is correct and connected between the tow vehicle and trailer, everything will test just fine without actually attaching the trailer coupler.

In fact, it is better to test the trailer lights with the trailer uncoupled, so you do not experience a false ground.

expert reply by: Chris R