Troubleshooting Tow Package of 2022 Ford F-450 That Won't 'Read' Trailer

Updated 03/30/2022 | Published 03/29/2022

Question:

Will this work on a 2022 Ford F450? The truck doesn’t acknowledge the trailer

asked by: Kenny H

Expert Reply:

The # PK12703 isn't vehicle specific, so it would work for you but the trailer connector on a brand new vehicle should work. If the truck isn't reading the trailer, I'd run through the trailering system setup as mentioned in the owner's manual. If that's been set up correctly, I'd check into the trailer's wiring to see if the problem lies there.

Ford's 'Smart' trailering system can be troublesome. If the vehicle detects an 'open' circuit on the trailer, it won't always recognize the trailer. I'd make sure the brake output circuits aren't damaged or shorted, and that the trailer brake magnets aren't excessively worn to where the copper windings in their interior aren't causing the circuit to short out.

expert reply by: Mike L