E1 Error Code on Hopkins Reliance Brake Controller

Updated 01/13/2020 | Published 01/12/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Cordless Circuit Tester

(15)

$19.27

Dielectric Grease for Electrical Connectors, 2 oz.

(1486)

$10.91

Question:

We have brake control 47284. It keeps showing an E1 error code. And our goose neck trailer brakes keep locking

asked by: Maureen B

Expert Reply:

The E1 error code on the 47284 brake controller - which is the Hopkins Reliance - indicates a trailer not connected. So getting this error when you are hooked up means there is an issue either with your trailer connectors or possibly a short on the blue brake wire.

Many times that can be attributed to one of your connectors having corrosion or possibly some type of debris interfering with the signal so start by taking a look at your connectors and clean the corrosion if necessary. This can be especially problematic if either connector is older, so you will also want to be sure to use Dielectric Grease # 11755 on your connectors to ensure a longer lifespan.

If your connectors are fine, test the brake controller for function; use circuit tester # PTW2979 to test the end of the blue wire coming out of the controller. It should only have power when you apply the manual override; if it shows power at idle then there is an issue with the controller and it will need to be replaced. I have also attached some help articles on testing and troubleshooting brake controllers for you to check out which I strongly recommend reading.

expert reply by: Kyle S