Testing 12 Volt Power on 2016 Ford F-150

Updated 07/01/2019 | Published 06/29/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Pollak 7-Way to RV Socket LED Circuit Tester - Vehicle End

(159)

$41.89

10 Gauge Wire - Blue Primary - Per Foot

(108)

$1.65

40 Amp In-Line Circuit Breaker - Perpendicular Mount Bracket

(97)

$9.85

Cordless Circuit Tester

(15)

$19.29

Question:

I’m confused on whether or not my truck is charging or even if just a trickle charge my travel trailer battery? I have a 2016 F150 XLT with factory 7 prong and break controller. How would I test the 12v line to see with or without the trailer connected? Thanks!

asked by: John

Expert Reply:

What happens on some 2015 thru 2017 Ford F-150's is that the 12 volt output to the 7-way is turned off when in park or even during gear shifting. The easiest way to test this is the Pollak 7-Way to RV Socket LED Circuit Tester # PK12741 which you just plug in and which lights up in regards to each function on your F-150's 7-way, including the 12 volt.

Otherwise you would simply use Cordless Circuit Tester # PTW2979 and you can use the help article on trailer wiring I added which shows you where the 12 volt pins is on your 7-way. If you aren't getting constant 12 volt power you can always use 10 gauge wire # 10-1-1 and run a line directly from your truck's battery - via Circuit Breaker # 9510 - to your 7-way.

expert reply by: Kyle S