Trailer Brakes are Randomly Engaging

Updated 02/12/2013 | Published 02/10/2013

Question:

I have a 2007 Chevrolet 1500hd classic that I just put a new Reese Pilot trailer brake controller in. I did this to replace what I thought was a faulty voyager controller. They both have had the same problem. The brakes will not apply when the brake pedal is pushed, but will engage manually. And on four separate occasions the brakes have engaged without any input. I have towed this same trailer with a different truck with no issues so it leads me to believe that there is a fault in the red wire or in the brake switch of my truck. The brake lights are not affected by this, and I have checked the plug and wiring at the rear of the truck for damage corrosion etc. with finding nothing wrong. Any ideas where the problem is?

asked by: Paul

Helpful Expert Reply:

It sounds as if you might be using the wrong brake control wiring adapter.

Unplug the harness from the connector under the dash, and examine how it is pinned out, comparing it to the photos I have edited for you.

In the 2007 Classic Silverado model, the red wire should be pinned in the D location as shown in the photo. If the wire is in the wrong location, you can remove the blue clip from the connector, and use a small screwdriver to unclip and free the red wire and move it to the correct location.

I consulted with my contact at Tekonsha, and he agreed this would be the most likely thing causing the problem. If the pin-out checks out okay, get back with me and we will check some other possibilities.

expert reply by: Mike L