Turn Signals on Trailer Do Not Work When Towed By a 2006 Toyota Tacoma
Updated 03/05/2013 | Published 03/02/2013
Question:
I installed a T- connector harness in my Tacoma to run the lites on my traialer. It worked for 2 or 3 years then one side stoped blinking. I purchased a new harness and it does the same thnig. The lites and blinkers on my truck both work.
asked by: Charles C
Expert Reply:
The first step that I would take to troubleshoot this issue is to test the 4-way connector on your 2006 Tacoma for proper function. This will tell us if the issue is on your Tacoma or on the trailer. First, make sure the new wiring harness is properly grounded. It should be connected to a clean, bare metal surface on the vehicle frame or to the negative terminal of the battery.
If the ground connection looks fine, you will want to use a circuit tester like part # PTW2993 to test each pin on the 4-way connector for proper function. I attached a video of my co-worker using this circuit tester to test a 4-way connector for you to check out.
If the 4-way connector on your Tacoma is functioning appropriately, then we know the issue is on the trailer. Again, first check for proper ground connections for the trailer side 4-way connector and the trailer lights. Poor ground connections can cause a number of issues. Make sure there is no corrosion on the ground connections and that they are connection to clean, bare metal sections of the trailer frame.
If the ground connections look okay, hook your trailer to your tow vehicle. Have someone activate the tail light functions and test each wire at the 4-way connector and locate the wire for the side that is not working properly. Using the circuit tester, probe that wire just past the trailer connector to see if power passes through the connection between the trailer and tow vehicle.
If you have no power on that wire, the issue may be in the 4-way connector itself. If you do have power past the connection, work your way toward the tail lights probing the wire. Also look for sections that may be pinched, frayed or damaged that could cause a short. This will tell you where the power terminates.
I have attached a trailer wiring diagram for you to use when troubleshooting your trailer wiring. I have also attached an FAQ article on trailer wiring for you to look over. If you are unable to find the issue or a solution after following these steps, let me know what you come up with and we can take further troubleshooting steps.
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Video: etrailer Trailer Brake Controller 7-Way RV Upgrade Kit Installation - 2020 Subaru Outback Wagon
- Video: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness Installation - 2024 Subaru Outback Wagon
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: Curt Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV - 10 Gauge
- Shop: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Shop: 7-Way RV Upgrade Kit for Trailer Brake Controller Installation - 12 Gauge Wires
- Shop: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Article: How to Charge a Trailer Battery While Driving: 3 Common Problems (And How to Fix Them)
- Shop: Threaded Hitch Pin for Thule Snug Tite Hitch Lock and Anti-Rattle Device - 4-1/2"
- Video: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness Review C56040
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Shop: Curt Powered Tail Light Converter with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Shop: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Video: How to Choose a Trailer Brake Controller
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Video: Feature Breakdown: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller
- Q&A: Recommended Bike Rack and Dual Hitch Adapter for Carrying E-Bikes While Flat Towing
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Video: Curt Mounting Bracket for 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector Review
- Search Results: brake controller
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
on Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
