Does Disconnecting Trailer Brake Controller Affect Trailer Lights

Updated 06/28/2019 | Published 06/27/2019

Question:

My used truck came with a prodigy p2. Its always on.i haul a small boat trailer that doesnt have brakes. It plugs into fitting for prodigy. If I unplugg unit, will I still have power for my trailer lights?

asked by: DARRELL L

Helpful Expert Reply:

Trailer brake controllers like the Prodigy P2 # 90885 do always remains powered up. They do not have an on/off switch for safety reasons; if they did it could accidentally be left in the off position while towing which could be dangerous.

If your current trailer does not have electric brakes you certainly do not need the Prodigy to be connected. Do note a controller like the P2 will draw very little power unless it is actually generating output to trailer brakes. If you wish you can unplug the controller's rear connector to disconnect it from 12V power and this will not have any effect on your trailer lights. Trailer lights use totally separate circuits (different pins and different wires) than a trailer brake controller.

If you refer to the linked photo of a vehicle 7-way you'll see the pins that handle each of the various light functions and the one at the 5:00 position that handles the trailer brake power. An article on trailer wiring is included too.

expert reply by: Adam R