Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller Showing OL, PL and SH Error Codes

Question

Question:

I am using a prodigy P2 proportional controler, and having 2-3 trouble codes. It started with code OL,PL. Last time I used it I got a SH code. I have checked my grounds,replaced 7 way plug, replaced all 4 wheel brake assys,checked connectors at controler in vehicle. Any ideas?

asked by: brian n

0

Expert Reply:

First, lets start by resetting the Prodigy P2. With the trailer disconnected from the vehicle, disconnect the brake controller by unplugging the harness from the rear of the unit, and plug it back in. The display will show NC for 15 seconds, and then show two dots.

The OL error code indicates that the Prodigy is drawing too much current. This is usually caused by a short on the brake output wire on the trailer or low resistance to ground on the brake wire. Look for any pinch points, or worn or cracked insulation that would allow the output wire to short out on the trailer frame. Check the ground leads that exit each brake assembly, make sure they are securely grounded to bare metal on the trailer frame. Make sure these grounding points are not corroded, as well.

The PL code will be displayed when the Prodigy loses voltage on the black wire while either the brake pedal or the manual lever is being applied. This may be caused by a loose connection or I have also seen a faulty circuit breaker case this as well.

The SH code can also be caused by a short on the output circuit. The most likely cause is dirt or corrosion build up in the trailer connectors on the vehicle and trailer. But, it could also indicate a problem with the rake magnets. I have included a link to an FAQ on testing magnets for you and a link to the installation instructions for the brake controller.

I'll link you to our Brake Controller Troubleshooting FAQ article.

expert reply by: Mike L

0

Jeff R.

2/25/2020

My Prodigy jumps from C to OG to 0.0. Ive made sure several times the controller is wired correctly. At a loss at this point.

Chris R.

2/26/2020

Are these error codes popping up as soon as you start the truck or only when braking? The only thing I can think of off the top of my head is that for some reason the unit isn't getting adequate power. I know you made sure the wiring is correct, but I would pay close attention to the black power wire and white ground wire. Make sure the power wire is securely attached to the battery and that the white wire is properly grounded. There seems to be some kind of interruption going on with this circuit. Let me know what you find and we can go from there.

Answer 1

All the brake controller needs to sense a trailer connection so that you can test it is a slight amperage draw on the output circuit. For that you can use a circuit tester like the part #PTW2993 with one pin grounded and the other on the output pin.…

view full answer...

Answer 2

It's possible the brake controller is bad, but you definitely want to check some other things before you purchase a replacement. The first thing to do is inspect both the truck's and the trailer's connectors to make sure the pins are…

view full answer...

Answer 3

I attached a picture that has a chart with all of the error codes for the Prodigy P2 part #90885 that you referenced. I am not sure what you mean by dashes on the display so hopefully the chart helps you. Feel free to email back with pictures of the…

view full answer...

Answer 4

The first error code, SH, you are seeing on the Prodigy Brake Controller (instructions linked below) means the brake wire sees a short circuit during idle condition. The second code, OL, indicates an overload condition during operation. For the first…

view full answer...

Answer 5

Since the trailer was off of the ground it would not take much voltage to stop the wheels from spinning so they may be getting power but they may not be getting enough power due to a short or wiring issue. But 9 times out of 10 weak trailer brakes…

view full answer...

Answer 6

Trailer brake controllers like the Prodigy P2 #90885 use a 4-wire hook up. The wire functions and connections are as follows: BLACK wire carries 12V power and connects to the vehicle + battery post through a 20- or 30-amp circuit breaker like…

view full answer...

Answer 7

If you click on the link that I have provided for the installation instructions, you can see the troubleshooting chart just below the installation details. The SH code that you see on your Tekonsha PRIMUS IQ brake controller indicates there is a…

view full answer...

Answer 8

The Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller #TK90160 that displays a flashing S.H shows that there is a short on your brake wire. There is not a reset button, but unplugging the controller for 15 minutes will allow it to reset. If after…

view full answer...

Answer 9

The NC on your Prodigy P2 #90885 means there is no trailer connection being recognized. Usually this is due to the controller not seeing enough power draw on the 5 o'clock pin of the 7-way (the brake controller output). This can be as basic as…

view full answer...

Answer 10

The correct brake controller install harness to use with your P2 is the part #3020-P. Since this is a proportional controller it will be difficult to see voltage at the output pin when the brakes are applied since the controller is designed sense…

view full answer...

Answer 11

Since your brakes will lock up when pulling the breakaway pin that would indicate that the problem is not on the trailer side of the equation and would be on the tow vehicle. Testing the brake controller is fairly easy. Sever the blue brake output…

view full answer...

Answer 12

You are correct, you should only be getting output when the brake is applied, or the override switch is activated. It sounds like the controller might be bad, but to make sure, you should probably bench test it before tossing it. Use a circuit…

view full answer...

Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller Showing OL, PL and SH Error Codes

Featured Help Information

Miscellaneous Media

Continue Researching