How To Test A Prodigy P3 Controller Without Having Direct Access To The Trailer
Updated 08/05/2025 | Published 09/06/2022 >
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
Hey I currently got a prodigy p3 to work with my 2013 Volkswagen Touareg TDI with tow package. I have same exact set up in video shown in the how to , very simple set up especially with the video. My question is how can I test the brake controller if possible? without connecting a trailer? I dont have direct access to a trailer with brakes but will be renting an RV with brakes and the P3 turns on when plugged in and I get the menus but obviously shows no trailer. If I put a multimeter on the 7 pin can I check if I hit the brakes or it only works once a full 7 pin trailer is connected? thank you so much
asked by: Anthony S
Expert Reply:
Since your prodigy P3 is a proportional controller you can partially test for function at the trailer connector using the hook probe circuit tester # PTW2993. You can use this tester to test the pin the 5:00 position on your trailer connector while someone else applies the manual trailer braking switch on the P3. You should see signal on the tested when the switch is actuated.
You can also test the red wire exiting the rear of the controller as the brake pedal is being pressed and again you should see a current on the tester when the brake pedal is pressed.
If you have a friend or neighbor that has a trailer with electric brakes you could make 100% sure by hitching up to their trailer.
I attached a review video link below.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Splice-In
- Under-Dash Box
- Under-Dash
- Up to 4 Axles
- LCD Display
- Multiple Trailers
- Tekonsha
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Continue Researching
- Search Results: tekonsha p3
- Search Results: tekonsha p3 brake controller
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Video: Trailer Brake Controller Wire Testing
- Q&A: How do I Tell if the Brake Controller is Bad
- Article: Testing Brake Controls
- Shop: Tekonsha Bench Tester
- Q&A: Troubleshooting a Tekonsha P3 Brake Controller With Trailer Brakes That are not Showing Power
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: Wiring Diagram and Instructions for a Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Brake Controller
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 and the P3 Brake Controllers
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Article: Towing a Trailer? Let's Talk About Brake Controllers
- Article: Installing an Electric Brake Controller on 2007-2013 GM Full-Size Truck or 2007-Present GM SUV
- Q&A: Brake Controller Wiring for Ford E-450 Motorhome
- Q&A: Brake Controller Recommendation for a Truck with Air Brakes and a Trailer with Electric Brakes


Tonyr
8/5/2025
Say everything is hooked up correctly but you cut the red wire at the back and send power to the red wire with a power probe. Shouldn't it activate the brakes like you just applied the brakes?