Troubleshooting Brake-Force Brake Controller
Updated 07/09/2019 | Published 07/07/2019
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
We have a Brake Force controller that we have used for the last 5 years with no problems. Recently, I noticed that the yellow light brake activated stays on, even after the brake pedal is released with no trailer attached. I bought a new controller and the same thing happens. We tried it with our trailer and the trailer brakes stayed engaged with or without our pressing the brake pedal. Where could the wiring issue be?
asked by: Christine
Expert Reply:
If your Hopkins Brake-Force is always applying power to your trailer brakes that generally means one of two things: 1) a short in the wiring you will need to find or 2) faulty connectors. Often, corrosion or dirt may be the cause of a short in a trailer connector. Check the plug to see if there is any type of corrosion built up that may be hampering its functionality.
It could be the wiring to the brake magnets or possibly the magnets themselves. Inspect the power wires to the magnets and look for wires that may be pinched or otherwise damaged and fix as necessary. You'll also need to make sure the ground wires are attached to bare metal surfaces and free of any paint, dirt or corrosion.
You'll want to visually inspect the magnets; if you can see the copper windings coming through the magnets will need to be replaced. To test the magnets use Multimeter # PT89ZR and follow the help article I have linked to guide you.
I have also attached some help articles on testing and troubleshooting brake controllers for you to check out which I strongly recommend reading.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Digital Multimeter with 42" Long Test Leads - LED Display
- Electrical Tools
- Testers
- Multimeter
- Yellow
- Performance Tool
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Video: Install: etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes on a 2019 Grand Design Reflection 150 Fifth Wheel
- Article: Troubleshooting Brake Controller Installations
- Shop: Curt TriFlex NEXT Trailer Brake Controller w/ Custom Harness - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Q&A: How to Test Brake Controller without Trailer Connected
- Video: Trailer Brake Controller Wire Testing
- Shop: Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly - 5,200-lb and 6,000-lb Axles - 12" - 6 on 5-1/2 - Pre-Greased
- Q&A: Will the Demco Brake Actuator # DM8202022 Work with Disc Brakes on a Boat Trailer
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Trailer Brakes That Grab and Release While Stopping Trailer
- Shop: etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 12" - Left/Right Hand - 5.2K to 7K
- Shop: Electric Trailer Brake Assembly - Self-Adjusting - 12" - Right Hand - 5,200 lbs to 7,000 lbs
- Shop: Easy Grease Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for 6K Axles - 12" - 6 on 5-1/2 - Galvanized
- Shop: Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly - 5,200-lb and 6,000-lb Axles - 12" - 6 on 5-1/2 - Pre-Greased
- Shop: Easy Grease Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly for 5.2K & 6K Axles - 12" - 6 on 5-1/2 - Pre-Greased
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Video: Firestone Ride-Rite Air Bags with Easy Mount Compressor Feature Breakdown
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Video: How to Choose a Trailer Brake Controller
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Q&A: Installation Time for Blue Ox BX1128 Flat Tow Base Plate Kit for 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Q&A: Instructions to Wire a Trailer for Electric Brakes
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
on Automotive Tools
