Troubleshooting Electric Trailer Brake Controller with No Display After Start Up

Published 11/16/2017

Question:

the code is 6.1 when I start the engine and no code when I apply the brake and no brakes

asked by: Dave N

Expert Reply:

With a code of 6.1 at start up, the controller is sensing that voltage output from your controller. No code isn't a bad thing, but it sounds like your controller isn't even recognizing a trailer connection.

I recommend using a circuit tester like # PTW2993 to test your wires going into your controller and the blue wire coming out of your controller for function. Start 6 inches behind the controller and then also check at the 5 o'clock pin position at your trailer connector. The light should be lit when you test this wire using your brake pedal and there should be a reading on your controller. When you use the manual override lever on the controller you should get increased light from increased power output as you slowly apply the lever to full power. I've attached an article to assist.

We can continue to troubleshoot from there unless you have the power and brake function going into the controller and nothing coming out. In that case, you simply need to replace the controller.

expert reply by: Jason S