Trailer Brake Controller on 2002 Chevy Silverado Does Not Work with Brake Pedal but Does with Manual

Updated 03/26/2013 | Published 03/24/2013

Question:

I can activate the trailer brakes manually but they wont work with the brake pedal itself. this is on a 2002 chevy 2500HD Duramax 2wd. The controller is not getting the signal from the brake pedal.

asked by: Robert S

Expert Reply:

There are a few possible reasons why the brake controller is not working when you step on the brake pedal. First, if it was working before but now it is not then the most likely cause is a blown stoplight or CHMSL fuse. Use the legend on the power distribution box lid to find the fuse locations and replace as needed.

You will also want to make sure that the connector that plugs into the port on the truck is pinned correctly. Basically, the wires coming out of the back of this plug should be in an L-shape. The red wire should be directly next to the white wire. If it is not then you will have to move it to that location. I have included some pictures that should help.

If you have just installed the controller and it was working from the start then there may be some additional connections that you will need to make under the hood. But since the brake controller does work with the manual override this does not seem likely. But just in case, I have included a link to an FAQ that will help. And I have included a link to an FAQ on troubleshooting brake controllers.

expert reply by: Michael H