Why Would Trailer Brakes Apply With Blinkers
Updated 02/03/2026 | Published 06/26/2024
Question:
i have a 2006 Chevy 2500 gas, put a tekonsha podigy p3 box in with the quick connect harness all is hooked under the fuse box. problem is when i turn on the turn signals it is applying the brakes to the trailer i can actually see the brake box energize for a split second over and over everytime the signal blinks . i check the truck side of the trailer plug clean as a whistle, and trailer is fine and is working perfect on another truck with tekonsha box
asked by: Chris
Expert Reply:
Hey Chris, thank you for all of the details about your issue. What is happening is that your brake output circuit (blue wire) is shorted out to one of the stop/turn signal circuits so that any time you activate that circuit it fully locks up the trailer brakes.
Since the trailer works on other trucks it's on the trailer side so you would need to trace the wiring from the 7-way back up towards front of vehicle looking for any cuts or exposed wire and fix as needed.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
ModuLite Installation Wiring Kit
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Wiring
- Wiring
- Power Wire Installation Kit
- Tekonsha
more information >
Continue Researching
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Article: Routing the Power Wire for a Trailer Wiring Harness
- Q&A: What Does Harness on 2017 Ford Explorer Look Like for Trailer Wiring
- Q&A: Brake Controller Installation in 2019 Ford Ranger
- Q&A: What Reflector and Clearance Lights do I Need for My 6 x 12 Dump Trailer?
- Q&A: What is the Differences Between TowReady T-One # 118329 and Curt # C55329 Wiring Harnesses
- Q&A: Recommended 7-Way Connector and Brake Controller for a 1996 Dodge Ram w/out Factory Connectors
- Q&A: Is Smaller 12 Volt Wire on Curt 4-Way to 7-Way Adapter an Issue
- Q&A: Do the Blue, Yellow, and Black Wires Need To Be Run On the Curt Trailer Connector Adapter C57672
- Article: My Trailer Hitch Doesn't Fit
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Article: Replacing the Bearing, Races and Seals on a Trailer Hub
Jameson C.
2/3/2026
Hey Chris, how did things go after you traced the wiring on your Chevy 2500? Were you able to find where the brake output wire was shorting to the turn signal circuit? Sharing what you found could really help others chasing the same issue.