Troubleshooting # C56074 Trailer Wiring Harness Installed on 2012 Infiniti FX35
Updated 04/09/2014 | Published 04/08/2014
Question:
After installing, the lights remain on once the car is shut off and the lights are turned off. It appears that the power from the battery is not being turned off once the car is shut down. Also the passenger side trailer turn signal does not work. Help!
asked by: Frank
Expert Reply:
Is it the vehicle lights, or the trailer lights that remain on when the vehicle is shut off? Does the trailer have LED lamps, or incandescent?
If it's the trailer lamps remaining on and the trailer has LED lamps, it is normal for the trailer lights on vehicles using some of the Curt powered converters to have a slight 'glow' (but NOT be fully illuminated) when the vehicle is turned off. Not enough power is being drawn to drain a car battery, but the trailer can certainly be unplugged if it concerns you.
If it is the vehicle lights remaining on or if the trailer lights are incandescent, the converter is faulty and needs to be replaced. I would also recommend checking the trailer wiring to ensure that there's no shorts that damaged the converter. Look for a damaged trailer connector and pinched or damaged wires. Repair as needed.
As for the turn signal, let's begin by using a incandescent bulb-type circuit tester like part # PTW2993 on the trailer connector on the vehicle. With the vehicle off and with no lighting functions activated, you should not see any power on any of the pins. If you do, it's further confirmation that the converter needs replacing.
Activate the right turn signal and check the pin on the connector fed by the green wire. If you do not see a signal, test the green wire on the input side of the converter. If you have power entering, but not leaving the converter it will need to be replaced. If you do see power on the pin, the wiring problem is in the trailer wiring. Trace the right turn circuit (usually a green wire) from the trailer connector back to the right taillight. Once again, look for a pinched wire, or wire insulation that's cracked or worn that caused the copper conductor to short out on the trailer frame, which might be what damaged your converter.
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