Troubleshooting Bargman Red Oval LED Turn Signal and Brake Light Malfunctions  

Question:

Expert Reply:

The part that you mentioned above is an LED light, the internal component is a diode (as in light emitting diode LED), and not a bulb. The diode should not be the issue, and on LEDs they are sealed around the diode typically with resin or another sealant substance. Checking or changing of the diode is not possible, only complete replacement of the entire diode.

It sounds like to me since the running lights are working but neither the brake or turn signal is working, it is most likely a wiring issue. It could be either a connectivity or a ground issue. For the running lights to work power is continually supplied but for the turn signal or brake lights it is an intermittent signal.

Similarly, the running light is a constant amperage draw, and the turn signal and brake lights are occasional amperage draw on the system. It is possible that if there is a wiring issues that is not delivering the signal properly the additional occasional amperage can overload the system.

The first step that I would take would be to isolate the problem from either the vehicle or the trailer, and I would recommend initially checking the vehicle output at the trailer and vehicle connector. To do that please disconnect the trailer from the vehicle and look for any corrosion or wire damage within the connector, as well as the wires leading to the connector itself. You could also use a circuit tester like part # PTW2993, and make sure that the connections points on the vehicle connecter are receiving power before it is connected to the trailer.

If there is no power on the vehicle side of the connector, I would recommend checking any fuses associated with the wiring and make sure that they are all in proper working order. You can check your owner's manual for the location of the fuse box as well as the factory wiring specifics for fuse functions.

Then I would proceed to trace the wires looking for signs of damage to the wires, such as any breaks in the insulation, any exposed or bare wire. Please pay close attention around any moving parts or hot elements like the suspension or exhaust.

If after isolating the vehicle output and there are no issues. I would recommend checking out the trailer wiring and connectivity.

To check if the issue is with connectivity of the wiring, I would recommend checking all connections points and make sure that the wires are secure and free of damage.

Another possibility would be a grounding issue. To check for any grounding issues, I would recommend making sure that there is a good ground to an appropriate metal surface, it is not recommended that the ground be connected to an aluminum surface. Then make sure that there are no gaps on the connector points, or any corrosion, road grime, or any build up that may interfere resulting in a bad ground.

I have included a link to the parts listed above as well as some helpful articles about trouble shooting trailer wiring for your reference.

expert reply by: Rachael H

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