Prodigy RF 90250 Reads n.c. When Trailer is Connected to 2013 Volvo XC90

Updated 10/18/2017 | Published 10/17/2017

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Deka Heat Shrink Butt Connector - 12-10 Gauge - Nylon Insulation - Yellow - Qty 5

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10 Gauge Wire - Blue Primary - Per Foot

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LCD Digital Circuit Tester

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Question:

Hello. I have a 2013 Volvo XC90 and was told this was the only brake controller that would work for my vehicle. I have a Curt 4 flat to Curt 7 blade and 4 flat converter. I have it grounded and the black wire going to the battery positive terminal and the 4 way plugged in as well. I do not have the yellow or blue wires attached to anything since this is an RF unit. I finally got the pairing process to work and it flashes 0.0 but when I connect the trailer it shows n.c. and never get the connected. What am I possibly doing wrong? I have heard of a lamp out adapter but I am not sure if I need one and if so which one? Thank you in advance for all of your helps

asked by: Matt

Expert Reply:

If you check out the instructions manual for your (discontinued) Prodigy RF 90250 it features a troubleshooting chart with common problems that people find. Among them is the n.c. signal that you referenced. I don't believe that you need a lamp out adapter as that has to do more with LED lights on your trailer causing your 2013 Volvo XC90 to read that a trailer light is burned out.

What I recommend doing is to start off by using a Circuit Tester # PTW2992 to make sure that you have 12V power running to the pin in the 1 o'clock position (see attached photo). If you do, then you will want to make sure that the connectors on your trailer are clean and free of debris so that they have a strong connection.

One of the reasons that you may be seeing an issue is if the trailer brake magnet has a loss of ground or there is an open circuit on your brake line. I recommend checking your grounds to make sure they are all secure and connected to a clean, bare metal surface. Also check the wiring for your brakes and look for any places where the wire is bent, corroded, exposed, or damaged and replace it with 10 Gauge Wiring # 10-1-1 and Butt Connectors # DW05745-5.

If your connectors look good and you cannot find a problem with the wiring on your trailer let me know and I can help you troubleshoot further.

expert reply by: Jon G