On a Trailer Towed by 2008 Honda Ridgeline Trailer has Running Lights but No Turn or Brake Lights

Updated 11/06/2012 | Published 11/05/2012

Products Featured in This Question

Hopkins Endurance 5-Way Flat Trailer Connector - Vehicle End - Ergonomic Design

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$15.12

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

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$13.72

Question:

Running lights work but no turn signal or brake lights.

asked by: Ray

Expert Reply:

If your 2008 Honda Ridgeline has a factory trailer wiring harness, check the owner's manual for any fuses and relays related to the tow package wiring that may need to be replaced. If everything checks out or if you have an aftermarket wiring harness like # 118400 then use a circuit tester like # PTW2993 if needed to test the pins on the connector.

If the pins on the connector do not show the proper signals, then you know there is a wiring issue with the Ridgeline wiring that needs to be addressed. But if they are working then you know the problem is on the trailer, most likely a bad ground connection somewhere.

Make sure that the main trailer connector ground wire is attached to a clean and corrosion free bare metal surface. You will also want to do the same with each of the trailer lights. If there is not an obvious ground wire then the lights ground through the mounting studs. Also make sure the trailer and vehicle side connectors are clean and corrosion free.

If you have a tilt trailer, folding tongue, or aluminum frame you will want to run a jumper wire from the light grounds to the main trailer connector ground wire.

expert reply by: Michael H