Dim Trailer Taillight Possibly Caused by Poor Ground Connection

Published 07/24/2021

Question:

Yes I am replacing my two tail lights and I have the one on the passenger side that works fine and bright but the one on drivers side is dim, should I grind the paint away from this spot to see if makes my light brighter.

asked by: Johnny P

Expert Reply:

It certainly sounds as if you're getting an insufficient ground connection.

I would definitely take a dime sized area around the hole for the ground screw down to bare metal, then install a star washer between the frame and the ring terminal on the ground wire. When the screw it tightened down, the star washer will bite into the trailer frame, ensuring a bullet proof ground connection. Once connected, give the area a quick shot of rust inhibiting spray paint to protect it.

I've linked to some articles that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Mike L