Trailer Lights are Not Working with 4-Way to 7-Way Adapter Plugged Into 2011 Ford Escape

Updated 07/05/2012 | Published 07/04/2012

Question:

I purchased this product and connected it to my 2001 Starcraft pop-up camper that has the 7-blade. My 2011 Ford Escape has a factory class II hitch and 4-pin wiring harness. I am still not getting lights or turn signals after plugging both ends in. Is there something I am missing?

asked by: Ryan L

Expert Reply:

For the adapter # 30717 to function, the white wire has to be grounded to the vehicle frame. Without that ground it will not function.

If it is properly grounded and you still do not have lights on the trailer, make sure that the adapter 7-Way and the trailer 7-Way pin configurations match up. I have included a link to our wiring FAQ article that shows diagrams of how various connectors should be pinned.

If you are still not getting lights test the 4-Way on the vehicle with a circuit tester like # 3808. If the signals are making to the 4-Way then the issue is either the adapter of the trailer wiring. Check the trailer wiring ground connections and wiring to make sure everything is intact.

If the signals are not reaching the vehicle 4-Way that could mean that some fuses and/or relays related to the trailer wiring (see owners manual for their locations) are bad or missing.

expert reply by: Michael H