Troubleshooting a Truck that Wont Shut Off When Trailer is Attached

Published 08/07/2013

Question:

my truck will not shut off while trailer is connected the trailer has a breakaway package with a battery for brakes it must be feeding back some how is there a salution ? Thank You

asked by: Derrell C

Helpful Expert Reply:

I would check the 12 volt circuit of your trailer connector on the truck side. It sounds like its run to an ignition circuit possibly and maybe your breakaway battery is backfeeding onto this circuit which is putting current on your ignition circuit and not letting your truck shut off.

To check to see if this is the problem I would recommend you cut the 12 volt power circuit either on the trailer or truck side and see if the problem persists with the connector attached. This circuit should be run to the positive side of your battery to prevent issues like this and/or overdrawing.

Your breakaway system should also not be backfeeding like this either, so you should check the wiring of it to determine what is wrong there. I attached an FAQ article that details how to install a breakaway system as well as a diagram that shows the connections that need to be made.

expert reply by: Jameson C