FINISH Why Isn't My Brake Controller Working on Trailer when Towed By My 2013 Ford F-150?

Published 08/27/2021

Question:

Thought I troubleshot problem to bad controller...controller was not lighting up. Plugged another truck into camper and brakes work fine on camper. Replaced the controller and the new one doesnt light up either. Have power to truck 7-pin, round connector. BUT, there is power all the time...not just when brake pedal is pushed, or manual override is activated. I have been pulling my hair out trying to figure this out...PLEASE HELP.

asked by: Erin A

Expert Reply:

As long as you have a wiring harness like the Redarc Plug-and-Play Wiring Harness for Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controllers # 331-TPH-007, I recommend making sure that all of the pins on your receiving connector are all connecting with the controller itself. Sometimes the pins in the harness can get damaged or bent to the point where they need to be replaced.

The next thing to check is the fuse that powers the brake controller. Since your 2013 Ford F-150 has a factory connector under the dash for the brake controller, it will have its own fuse. I recommend checking the owner's manual for the fuse location and make sure its working properly.

Another thing to keep in note is to make sure you are testing the correct pin on your 7-way connector on your truck. The pin that you need to test is the braking output pin which is the blue pin marked on the attached diagram to this response. This pin will give you the correct answer as far as if you are getting power to your braking system.

expert reply by: Bob C