Troubleshooting Intermittently Working 7-Way Trailer Connector on 2011 Chevy Traverse

Updated 03/04/2022 | Published 03/02/2022

Products Featured in This Question

Wiring Kit for Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuators

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Dielectric Grease for Electrical Connectors, 2 oz.

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Question:

Hello eTrailer I have a 2011 Chevrolet Traverse with the factory tow package installed. However, the 7 pin connection is not reliable any more. Sometimes i need to wiggle it to get the trailer lights to work. Sometime the right indicator doesnt work. Do you sell a 7 pin wiring kit that can replace the existing 7 pin wiring on my Traverse?

asked by: Richard B

Expert Reply:

Due to the intermittent nature of your problem, what you have going on is likely being caused by corrosion in the trailer connector on the vehicle or in the connector on the trailer. First, check those blades on the vehicle's connector for green or white corrosion. If the corrosion is minor, you can take a piece of sandpaper and remove the corrosion, but if its severe it's likely that the corrosion has spread to the interior of the plug and is interfering with the voltage coming through and the connector assembly should be replaced.

For a replacement 7-way/4-pole connector, I'd recommend the # HM40975. You'd simply unplug the existing 7-way from the tow package harness on the back of the connector and replace the existing with the # HM40975.

Next check the sockets on the connector on the trailer. If the sockets are corroded it'll be difficult to use sandpaper on them but if you have a file that's small and thin enough to fit in there, you can take a stab at cleaning them. If not, you'll need to replace the connector. We offer a trailer connector/junction box as part # HS381-9000 that would work great for you. The junction box provides a spot to neatly make your wiring connections so they'll be protected from the elements and easy to access if necessary.

When the blades and sockets have been cleaned or the connector/s have been replaced, it's a good idea to use some dielectric grease like # 11755 on the blades and in the sockets to prevent corrosion from occurring again.

expert reply by: Mike L