Will Trailer Lighting Circuit Still Work with 7-Way if Brake Controller isn't Used

Updated 02/26/2024 | Published 04/26/2018

Question:

Will trailer lights still work when plugged into the 7-pin connector if I do not have a trailer brake installed yet?

asked by: Donnie D

Expert Reply:

Yes, the lighting functions of a trailer 7-way will be fully functional regardless of if a brake controller is installed/functional. The circuits are totally separate. There are many people who use 7-way trailer wiring setups without a brake controller and lighting all works fine.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Scott

2/26/2024

Is the 12v pin always expected to be working, even without a brake controller attached?

Jameson C.

2/26/2024

@Scott The 12 volt accessory circuit is totally independent from the brake controller so without one installed it could be active. I will say that it's not always active so it could just be not wired up.