Troubleshooting Curt Spectrum Brake Controller Wiring on 2017 Chevy Colorado

Updated 07/18/2022 | Published 07/15/2022

Question:

About two years ago I purchased from etrailer the Curt Spectrum trailer brake, I dont recall the model number, and installed it on my 2017 Colorado. After installing, and during the last two years, the lights on the Spectrum keeps asking me to configure the settings with no trailer. Recently, I finally purchased a trailer with electric brakes. Now that the trailer is connected, the Curt Spectrum trailer brake lights do not go on to configure nor do the electric trailer brakes activate. All of the lights on the cargo trailer work properly. I am guessing I have two or more wires in the Spectrum wire yourself harness wired wrong. Do you have any idea which wires they might be? I do get the full range of correct configuration lights available on the Spectrum working as the instructions say without a trailer connected. I thought I followed the install instructions correctly, but .... How to trouble shoot besides looking at the way I wired the connector from your instructions? Thank you for you help

asked by: Brian

Expert Reply:

I'd be happy to help!

The Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller # C51170 does have specific wiring and if this is the first time you've connected a trailer I definitely recommend making sure you've hardwired the wiring correctly. Here are the functions the brake controller wiring should be connected to:

Blue - 7-Way Output to Trailer
Black - 12V Power
White - Ground
Red - COLD Side of Stop Light Switch (only gets hot when brake pedal is pressed)

The brake circuit the Spectrum is connected to is separate from your trailer wiring which is why your lights are working fine but the brakes aren't. If you've been able to look at the troubleshooting light configuration and you can let me know what is popping up that would help as well - the first place to look though is definitely the hardwired connections to make sure everything is correct.

expert reply by: Jon G