Troubleshooting Intermittent Trailer Disconnected Message When Towing
Updated 02/20/2024 | Published 02/18/2024
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I’m getting intermittent trailer disconnected messages when towing my toy hauler. My other trailers do not have the same problem. Looking at the trailer brake wiring, it appears the brakes are pulling ground directly from the tow vehicle through the 7 pin connector. Is this ok? I have three axels and all Of the brake wire connectors are non-water proof. I guess a lot of areas where the problem could be. Any literature on how To go about narrowing the problem Before i pull the hubs and look at the magnets Bill ?
asked by: Bill
Expert Reply:
Hey Bill thanks for your question. Like you said there are several things that can cause an intermittent trailer disconnected message. The most common cause is a rusty or corroded trailer connector. Go ahead and inspect the trailers 7-way plug. If there is noticeable rust or corrosion it will need to be replaced with something like the 7-Way Round RV Style Trailer Connector # A7WCB. I suggest using a bit of Dielectric Grease # 11755 on the trailer plug and the vehicles 7-way.
It is ok for the brakes to be pulling ground from the trailer connector, so that sounds normal. Intermittent signal can be caused by a bad ground though, which could point to the brake wiring or the trailer connector itself.
If the connections are not waterproofed that could also be causing issues since there might be corrosion on some of the connections. You will want to thoroughly inspect all of the wiring connections on the trailer. Keep an eye out for any loose connections or frayed wire. I suggest using heat shrink connectors such as part # DW05745-10, which will help waterproof your connections.
I am not sure exactly what kind of trailer you have or how old it is, but I would certainly check the trailer plug and wiring before removing the hubs and such. It might end up being a simple fix.
I have linked a bit of literature below which you may find helpful, especially the article on how to test your brake magnets. You can feel free to let me know if you have further questions.
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Search Results: trailer brakes
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 5-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Shop: etrailer Electric Trailer Brakes - Self-Adjusting - 12" - Left/Right Hand - 5.2K to 7K
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: Optronics LED Trailer Clearance or Side Marker Light - Submersible - 3 Diodes - Rectangle - Red Lens
- Shop: Optronics LED Mini Clearance or Side Marker Trailer Light - Submersible - 2 Diodes - Red Lens
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Trailer Wiring Using a 2021 GMC Sierra Truck
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Intermittent Trailer Disconnected Message with Factory Brake Controller on Ford
- Shop: LED Clearance or Side Marker Trailer Light w/ Reflector - 1 Diode - Oval - Red Lens
- Shop: Curt Trailer Connector Adapter - 7-Way RV Style to 4-Way Flat - 60" Cord
- Shop: Optronics LED Clearance or Side Marker Light - Submersible - 3 Diodes - Rectangle - Amber Lens
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Shop: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Video: How to Choose a Trailer Brake Controller
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Q&A: What Is An OEM Prep Package And How Do I Know If I Have It
- Search Results: trailer jack
- Video: Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller Review RED24FR
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
on Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
