Troubleshooting Tekonsha Primus IQ Brake Controller Always Flashing

Updated 04/29/2020 | Published 03/06/2019

Question:

We are on the way to Florida towingnbikes with our motorhome. Screen keeps flashing

asked by: Laurene L

Expert Reply:

There are a couple of reasons why your Primus IQ trailer brake controller # TK90160 could be flashing. It could be a bad ground connection, an overload or the angle of the controller not accurate for use. The angle is an issue because it utilizes an internal sensor to determine deceleration for the proportional braking of your trailer. I've attached a photo of the troubleshooting in the manual as well as the instructions to assist.

If this doesn't help solve your flashing, then give me some more info and a photo of the display and we can continue to troubleshoot.

expert reply by: Jameson C

click to enlarge

Scott J.

4/27/2020

Just installed this in my 2012 gmc Sierra. Is there supposed to be a red led light on regardless of whether the truck has a key in it?

Chris R.

4/29/2020

Yes, what you're seeing is completely normal. The red dot just indicates that the Primus IQ is on and receiving power. Since it gets power directly from the truck's battery, the circuit doesn't shut off when the ignition is off. The controller will however go into a power saving mode after about 15 minutes of inactivity. You don't have to worry about this draining the battery (it would take months and months and months of the truck sitting idle for it to cause any issues).