Park Lights not Working on Trailer Hooked Up to a 2003 Dodge Dakota

Updated 11/04/2020 | Published 11/02/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Activator IV Trailer Brake Controller - Up to 4 Axles - Time Delayed

(357)

$103.31

10 Gauge Wire - Blue Primary - Per Foot

(104)

$1.84

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

(60)

$12.27

Question:

I have a 2003 Dodge Dakota 4 door, 2 wheel drive with 4.7 engine. Automatic transmission. I purchased this truck new and the dealer had a local truck accessory shop install the Draw Tite Activator 5100 and 7 pin connection prior to my accepting delivery of the truck. Everything worked great initially, but at some point the trailer park lights no longer work with the 5504. The truck brake and park lights work, and the brakes and brake lights work on the trailer, but the park lights do not. The trailers turn signals also work. This applies to other trailers that I pull as well. These same trailers park lights work when towed by another truck, so the issue is not in the trailer. I have had 3 shops, including the original installer check this out and can not resolve the issue.

asked by: Brian E

Expert Reply:

Usually when only one function is not working properly, there is either a grounding issue or an issue with the wire.

Since you've determined that the park lights work with other trucks, then you need to check the ground connection on your 2003 Dodge Dakota. Make sure the contact point for the ground wire (the white one), is a paint-free, corrosion-free location. There can't be any paint, rust, or anything else between the wire and the frame of the vehicle. Any obstruction there will cause you to lose functionality in places (like your park lights). If you see any of this, move it to a better spot.

If that looks okay, check the running light pole of your 7-way (the one in the 3 o'clock position) with a circuit tester like part # PTW2993. If that test is unsuccessful, trace the brown wire to look for any splits or frays. If you find any, you will need to replace that wire with something like part # 10-1-1 (sold by the foot).

Also, be sure to check under your hood for any blown fuses. If you find any, replace them.

expert reply by: Kef G