Troubleshooting Brake Light and ABS Dash Light On After Installing Brake Controller
Updated 08/20/2018 | Published 08/19/2018 >
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I have a 2001 dodge dakota without a tow package. I added an etrailer Curt Venturer brake controller. The positive and negative were tapped off the battery, the brake input was wired off the brake switch by tapping to the wire that is powered when the brake is pushed. It properly applies braking to my trailer, no issues, all the controller adjustments work properly. However, my dashboard Brake light and ABS light now come on about 2 minutes after I start driving. Any ideas?
asked by: Mike
Expert Reply:
It sounds like you installed the red wire in the correct location, however the ABS brake light on your dash seems to contradict that. I recommend retesting the switch where you connected the red wire of your brake controller. There not only should be signal when you hit the brake, but there should be absolutely no other power when you use any other function of your vehicle. Check your blinkers, hazards, headlights, etc. Use a circuit tester like # PTW2993 to confirm proper function. I also recommend double checking your ground connection and not using the battery terminal but rather the vehicle frame for that ground.
There is no reason why a brake light or ABS light would come on after you start driving just because you added a brake controller if it is installed correctly. If you test the wiring and it is correct, the ABS and brake warning lights going off are most likely coincidental.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Venturer NEXT Trailer Brake Controller - Up to 3 Axles - Time Delayed
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Time Delayed Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Plug-In
- Under-Dash Box
- Under-Dash
- Up to 3 Axles
- LCD Display
- Single Trailer Only
- CURT
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Article: Towing a Trailer? Let's Talk About Brake Controllers
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
- Search Results: 3036~p
- Shop: Cabin Air Filter
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Q&A: Troubleshooting 2017 Ford F-450 Integrated Brake Controller that Only Works with Override Lever
- Q&A: Factory Brake Controller Plug Location for 2018 Ford F-450 Chassis
- Q&A: Which Brake Controller Install Harness Fits 2022 Ford E-450 Cutaway
- Q&A: Plug-In Wiring Adapter For Tekonsha P2 Brake Controller On A 2022 Ford F-450 Cab & Chassis
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Brake Controller Wiring of 2021 Ford E-450 Not Matching 3034-P
- Q&A: Where To Find The Factory Brake Controller Wire Harness In A 2023 Ford F-150
- Q&A: 2015 Lincoln Navigator Brake Controller Wiring Harness Connection Location
- Shop: PTC Custom Fit Cabin Air Filter - White Media Particulate
- Shop: Redarc Plug-and-Play Wiring Harness for Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controllers
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Shop: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Video: How to Choose a Trailer Brake Controller
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: Curt Powered Tail Light Converter with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Video: A Look at the Power Mountain Tallboy 6 Ton Off-Road Bottle Jack with a Military Cargo Trailer
- Shop: etrailer Anti-Rattle Hitch Collar for 2" Hitch Receivers
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Search Results: trailer jack
- Shop: etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"




