Troubleshooting A Brake Buddy Stealth That Isn't Activating The Brake When Tested

Updated 12/20/2021 | Published 12/19/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Digital Multimeter with 42" Long Test Leads - LED Display

(3)

$21.67

Question:

The display indicates that the tow vehicles attached even though it isnt. This is shown by a single dot on the display. In addition when I hit the test button the brake pedal does not depress, but when testing for Breakaway the brake pedal does compress. What voltage should be at the motor home plug for trailer brakes when the test button is pushed on the controller.

asked by: Dave B

Expert Reply:

If you're talking about the two dots on the left side of the Brake Buddy Stealth # HM39530 controller (A) those are mode indicator lights that will display regardless of whether the towed vehicle or trailer is connected.

You'll want to test the blue wire of the towed vehicle for voltage using a tester like the # PT89ZR. When the vehicle is disconnected it should be reading 2-6 volts and should be at zero when the car is connected. When you press the brake test button (E) you should then receive 12 volts. If you are not then it would indicate a fault with the wire, the adapter cable or pins, or the controller itself.

I've attached a portion of the manual below that goes over testing the brakes with the towed vehicle disconnected from the motorhome as well.

expert reply by: Kevin C