Troubleshooting Trailer Disconnected Message on Ram When Hooked Up to Trailer

Updated 09/23/2024 | Published 04/17/2019

Question:

I purchased a 2018 ram truck, I hooked up to my goose neck horse trailer light on trAiler work but gives me reading on dash that Tralee lights not connected. What do I have to do to get brakes to be connected so cN adjust?

asked by: Maggie

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you have a factory brake controller on your 2018 Ram and you're getting a "Trailer Disconnected" message on the dash when hooked up. If that is the case this error message is usually related to the blue brake output wire that runs from the back of the brake controller to the 7-Way connector.

Try and trace the blue wire from the back of the 7-Way on your truck as far up towards the cab as you can and look for any pinched or frayed sections that need to be replaced. The truck is still pretty new so while it's not likely I still recommend inspecting the 7-Way itself for any debris or corrosion that might be built up around the pins, cleaning out as needed.

If everything looks good on the truck then you can turn your attention to the trailer. Inspect its 7-Way for debris/corrosion and try and trace the brake output wire as far as you can, again looking for damaged sections. Also make sure the ground wires for each of the brake assemblies are securely attached to clean, bare metal surfaces.

If you still aren't able to locate or resolve the issue please let me know and we can continue to troubleshoot.

expert reply by: Chris R

Paul W.

9/21/2024

I am getting the same msg. But it goes back and forth saying connected to then. Disconnect I baught a new battery for the trailer becuase it was showing low

Chris R.

9/23/2024

@PaulW Hey Paul. In addition to the steps I listed above (I'd still check those even though yours is toggling back and forth between the two messages), take a look at the brake assemblies on the trailer and make sure the ground wires on each one are still securely attached.