Troubleshooting SH Error Code For Tekonsha Prodigy RF Brake Controller

Question:

I hooked up a Prodigy RF brake controller to a used trailer that I had just bought without ensuring the wires on the SUV and trailer were properly aligned standard RV wiring versus trailer version. I got a SH reading on the remote and blew a number of towing fuses in the SUV Acura MDX. I replaced the fuses but the controller still shows SH. When I put a 7 way tester in the power module, the tester green lights indicate that all the other circuits are fine. Even the brake circuit shows green. Is it possible the SH code is showing up because there is a short in the SUV or more likely that the initial short damaged the power module? Thanks in advance for your help. Don

asked by: Don H

Expert Reply:

Good morning. Don. The SH error code for the Tekonsha Prodigy RF # TK94FR does mean there is a short somewhere along the brake control output circuit. A short would also explain the blown fuses. This is usually caused by cracked, pinched or broken wires. I suggest that you inspect this wire and repair/replace as needed. I also suggest that you make sure your trailer connecter is properly grounded to good clean metal. Also check to make sure the pins on your trailer connector are not rusted or corroded. At this point I do not suspect an issue with the brake controller itself.

Please give these steps a try and let me know how it goes. If the issue persists just let me know in the comments below and I am happy to help you troubleshoot further.

expert reply by: Jesse M

Don H.

5/13/2024

Hi Jesse, thank for your response to my query. One important thing that I failed to mention is the brake controller shows "SH" even though it is not attached to the trailer cable (wires). One would think it should show "N.C." instead.

Jesse M.

5/14/2024

@DonH That is odd actually. Now I am wondering if something is shorted out inside the controller. This is not a common issue at all but if fuses were blown I suppose it is possible. If you are 100% sure all of the fuses and wiring on the SUV is good, then I suggest you take advantage of the lifetime warranty for your Tekonsha controller.

Don H.

5/14/2024

Hi Jesse. thank you for your prompt response. I am going to buy a used Prodigy RF and see if it shows NC or SH when I plug it into the SUV. That should isolate the problem. Thanks again for your help. Don

Jesse M.

5/14/2024

@DonH I was thinking the same thing. Or if you have a friend or neighbor who has a similar controller you could borrow. This way you can pinpoint the actual cause of the issue. Let me know if I can do anything else to help.