Does a Brake Controller Showing Only .21 Volts Need to be Replaced?

Updated 10/02/2017 | Published 09/30/2017

Question:

I have a 1999 F250 with a Tekonsha brake controller. I tested the system and power from the brake indicator, power to the unit, ground but when testing the blue wire leading to the trailer I got low voltage about .21 instead of 12 volts on the meter. I fiddled with the knob and .21 was the highest reading I got. I assume that my controller is dead. Is that a safe assumption?

asked by: Jonas C

Expert Reply:

It seems likely your brake controller will need to be replaced. Make sure the controller is level, the connections are secure and the connectors are free of any corrosion. After that, apply the manual override and test the black wire that is giving the power to the brake controller to make sure you are getting 12 volts. If you are, cut the blue wire coming out of the controller and test the voltage again. If you are still getting low voltage, the unit will need to be replaced.

I highly recommend the Prodigy P3 # 90195 due to it's fantastic ease of use and setup, as well as the LCD display, which is one of those things that you don't really know you need until you actually have it.

expert reply by: Kyle S