Troubleshooting Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Brake Controller Not Recognizing Trailer Connection

Published 11/02/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(2763)

$160.52

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

(60)

$12.41

Question:

I purchased an E brake controller from you in 2010 or 2011. I never used it till recently. My problem is that it does not recognize a trailer being connected. Need to know how to troubleshoot this problem. The controller is a prodigy P2 3035

asked by: John B

Expert Reply:

If your Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller # 90885 is not recognizing your trailer when it is connected, I recommend starting by inspecting both your vehicle side and trailer side connectors. Check to make sure there is no debris or corrosion in and around the pins, simply cleaning out as needed.

Next, I recommend going to the trailer connector at the rear of your vehicle and testing the pin at the 5 O'clock position with a circuit tester like # PTW2993. You can have a buddy sit in the vehicle and engage the manual lever on the P2 Controller while you test the pin. Make sure the controller is set to max power. If you do not receive any power at the pin with the override lever engaged, then there might be a missing or blown fuse in your vehicle. You can check your copy of the owner's manual for the corresponding fuse locations.

If you you do receive the correct voltage at the pin, then the issue is most likely on the trailer side and you can turn your focus to it. Check the wiring on the trailer for any bad connections or damaged sections, fixing as needed. Check to make sure all your ground connections are made to clean, bare metal surfaces.

If you are unable to resolve the issue, please let me know and I will be happy to look into this further. I have also attached a troubleshooting article that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Chris R