2018 Ram 4500 Not Recognizing A Trailer Is Connected

Updated 02/22/2022 | Published 02/20/2022

Question:

Just bought 2018 ram 4500, plugged into my 2006 trailer with Carlisle hydrastar electric over hydraulic brakes and it makes actuator kick on and off as soon as I plug it in. Truck doesnt recognize trailer. Do I need an adapter or just put in after market controller?

asked by: Nick

Expert Reply:

The actuator kicking on and then off when you plug it into your 2018 Ram 4500, sounds like it is the system being primed.

As far as your truck not recognizing the trailer goes, the truck needs to see resistance of the trailer's brakes to recognize a trailer is connected, if it doesn't see this, it won't activate the brake controller.

Additionally, I recommend checking your trailer plug connection and your ground connections ensure they are clean, and free of debris and dirt.

expert reply by: Bryce D