Brake Light Switch on 2010 Chevy Equinox Not Receiving Enough Voltage for Brake Controller

Updated 08/25/2017 | Published 08/24/2017

Question:

I was considering buying a Tekonsha PowerTrac for my 2010 Equinox but I have not been able to find the required power on the brake switch. It only has low voltage available not the + 12 V needed. How do you instruct customers around this ?? I would hate to go to all the expense of a wireless controller. Your site has lots of great pics and tips but does not answer this question. Thanks in advance for your help.

asked by: Don B

Helpful Expert Reply:

Some vehicles, such as your 2010 Chevrolet Equinox, feature a brake switch that does not have the proper wiring with the needed voltage for a trailer brake controller. In these cases, the signal simply has to be obtained at the BCM (body control module). The BCM should be located under the dash, above where your left knee would be when sitting in the driver's seat.

I recommend using a circuit tester like # PTW2993 to test the wires. This will be same method as looking for the brake switch wire under the brake pedal. You are looking for a wire that only receives power when the brake pedal is pressed. Based on my research, the correct wire is typically white in color, so you can start by testing those.

expert reply by: Chris R