Troubleshooting Only One Side of Trailer Brakes Locking Up

Updated 06/09/2025 | Published 08/26/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(6641)

$169.94

Digital Multimeter with 42" Long Test Leads - LED Display

(3)

$22.17

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

(60)

$12.27

Question:

Should both wheels lock up at the same time? I followed the procedure for adjusting the power to the trailer brakes, but only one wheel would lock up. Does this indicate anything that I should follow up on? Thank you!

asked by: AC

Expert Reply:

Yes, when the electric signal is sent from the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller # 90195 to the trailer's brakes, it should cause both sides to lock up. Since only one side is locking up, it could indicate that one brake assembly needs to be manually adjusted. I attached a video that shows how to do this process.

If that doesn't get it to respond then there is possibly an issue with the wiring going into the brake assembly which you can test using a circuit tester like # PTW2993. When testing for power you want to make sure you get a 12V reading. You of course want to make sure the white ground wire on the brake assembly is properly connected.

If you confirm you are getting 12V going into the brake assembly next you will want to test your brake magnet with a multimeter like our # PT89ZR. Check out the helpful article below that explains how to test the brake magnets. We carry replacement brake magnets but to make a recommendation I will need to know the size and weight capacity of your brakes.

expert reply by: Carla M

A.c.

1/1/0001

Carla M.

8/28/2019

You are correct. All the information in the above answer still applies regardless of the brake controller since we're troubleshooting on the trailer side.

Ralph G.

6/7/2025

Can you provide a link to the video you sent to this person.

Kate F.

6/9/2025

@RalphG How to test your brake magnets: https://www.etrailer.com/faq-testing-trailer-brake-magnets-for-proper-function.aspx Video on electric brakes the know all: https://www.etrailer.com/tv-review-electric-trailer-brake-assembly-akebrk-35r.aspx If you have a specific issue you are dealing with and still need some help after watching the video and taking a gander at the help article, let me know the issue and I will see what I can do to help.