Troubleshooting Trailer Reverse Light Bars Causing Error Message on a 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Updated 09/26/2023 | Published 09/25/2023

Question:

I have a 2022 Chevrolet Silverado High Country 1500 4X4 w/tow package, this vehicle replaced my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4X4 w/tow package. I have a boat trailer that I have put 2 - 7inch bar led lights on for back up lighting, worked great on 2016 but come on for a second or two then go off, with message telling me check connection on my 2022. I purchased two resistors 50 watt 6 ohms doesnt matter if I hook one light one resistor or 2 lights one resistor or two lights and two resisters they still wont stay on. Im hoping maybe you can help! What parts do I need? Do I need different Lights? different resistors? Some where in my readings a relay switch was mentioned, do I need that?

asked by: John F

Expert Reply:

This is definitely a strange issue but I was able to find a similar issue on a similar truck. With having the multiple reverse lights there could be a couple issues you are experiencing. I would start by disconnecting one of the lights and the diodes to ensure the truck does not feel like to much power is being pulled by the reverse lights. While they are only LED lights some light bars still use a lot of power as the lights will have a very high lumen output and use more power than many think.

This may also help to determine if the ground wiring may be the issue. If the single light works you can then try adding a jumper wire from the ground circuit on the trailer near the reverse lights to the truck ground circuit. This could determine the ground connections are not allowing enough continuity to your Silverado and causing the truck to give an error.

expert reply by: Bud M