7-Way Connector Stays Hot And Drains Battery On A 2017 Nissan Frontier

Updated 11/11/2019 | Published 11/09/2019

Question:

I have a 2017 Nissan frontier and the running lights on the 7 way trailer plug is staying hot even with out a trailer hooked up . Its draining my battery and I dont know what to do about it .

asked by: Mandy

Expert Reply:

The issue is very likely in how the vehicle 7-Way connector or wiring harness is wired. I would start by checking the 7-way plug for any bare wires touching each other that could be causing a short. The short could be in the plug or in the wiring going into the back of the plug. The short could also be somewhere in the harness.

The 12 volt wire in the plug or harness could be making contact with the Tail Light/Clearance Light Wire in the plug or harness. That short could be allowing the 12 volt DC current to flow to your Trailer's clearance lights even when not plugged into a tow vehicle. Included is a diagram with a typical 7-Way wire setup though they are not all wired the same.

If you do not find any problems with the plug itself then look at the wiring harness for any areas where it might be binding or chafing and causing these two wires to make contact.

expert reply by: Patrick R