Troubleshooting Brand New Trailer with Weak Electric Brakes

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

Question:

I recently purchased a P3 Tekonsha break controller and I set it up properly however when I brake it reads O.O and when I apply the manual switch it goes all the way up to 12.1 but the breaking power is barely noticeable. It is a brand new camper it was picked up 2 weeks ago. I am towing with a Jeep Wrangler Jl, I have power where all lights and turn signals work. I’m thinking it’s a ground issue, or a controller issue any help would be appreciated.

asked by: Christopher D

Expert Reply:

Since the trailer is brand new most likely the issue is that the brake assemblies aren't adjusted properly as this is the most common cause for weak brakes on a new trailer. If the assemblies are self-adjusting they will get tighter with every application of the brakes so you can apply the manual override lever several times and they will get tighter each time.

Or you can manually adjust them tighter to get them more sensitive.

I have attached a great installation video that you can use to help with adjusting your trailer's brake assemblies. You will want to skip ahead to around the 4:20 mark in the video.

If the issue was ground related most likely you'd be seeing an error code on the brake controller. If you are still having issues let me know and I'll see if I can come up with other ideas.

expert reply by: Jameson C