Troubleshooting Right Blinker Not Functioning on a Trailer

Updated 04/29/2013 | Published 04/24/2013

Products Featured in This Question

Peterson Combination Trailer Tail Light - 6 Function - Incandescent - Square - Passenger Side

(881)

$5.16

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

(65)

$13.35

Question:

right rear turn light on my trailer doesnt work or right side flasher either but all other lights and left turn signal work, all bulbs are good, what is problem

asked by: Mike M

Expert Reply:

The first thing I would do is check the ground on the right tail light assembly. The ground may not be strong enough to carry the amperage.You will want to make sure the ground is attached to a clean metal surface or if the assembly grounds through the mounting hardware you will want to make sure that surface is a clean metal surface too.

If that checks out next you will need use a circuit tester like our part # PTW2993 and test the right turn signal circuit on the trailer connector on your vehicle to see if it gets intermittent voltage when the blinker is on. Check out the video I attached that shows how this would be done.

If the voltage looks good there then you know the problem lies somewhere between the connector on the trailer and the light assemblies. Most likely its corrosion in the connector or a loose or exposed wire somewhere and will need to be repaired as necessary.

If the voltage was not there when you tested the vehicle connector then you know the problem is on the vehicle side of the wiring. You will want to check the back of the connector for corrosion or anything else that could cause a short and fix as necessary.

I attached an FAQ article on trailer wiring for you to check out also.

expert reply by: Jameson C