2013 Ford F-150 With Factory Brake Controller Will Not Recgonize that the Trailer is Connected

Updated 05/01/2017 | Published 04/28/2017

Question:

my 2013 f150 with tow package and an in-cabin trailer brake control caliper, does not recognize that the trailer is hooked up. Says no trailer. I have cleaned the contacts, used a brand new 5way 7 pin adapter. but still the truck says no trailer. Is there a part that I need to install? is the in cabin brake controller a dummy switch that requires additional wiring?

asked by: Andrew

Expert Reply:

On the 2013 Ford F-150, the trailer connected signal is activated through the electric brake circuit. Typically the 5th wire on a 5-way plug is wired for the reverse light circuit and used with surge or hydraulic brakes. If the circuit is not completed through your adapter or if the adapter is wired for the reverse pin and not trailer brake pin on your truck's 7-way, then you will not have the correct trailer electric connection.

The plug adapter that you are using may be reading the wrong signal from the truck. You best option is to replace the 5 way plug on your trailer with a 7-way plug. Using the 7-Way Round Trailer Connector # A7WCB connect the trailer wiring to this plug using the wiring diagram that I attached.

Using this plug will guarantee that the trailer's electric brake circuit is connected to the correct pin in your F-150's trailer connector.

expert reply by: Jared P