Troubleshooting a Brake Controller that Only Works with the Manual Override Lever

Published 05/28/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Activator IV Trailer Brake Controller - Up to 4 Axles - Time Delayed

(357)

$103.31

Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(2763)

$159.00

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

(60)

$12.27

Question:

I installed a brand new Draw-Tite brake controller and it works good on over ride but doesnt work when i apply the brake pedal. Doesnt make a difference if Im plugged into the camper or not cause I have noticed it work before here and there. When it did work the way it should even unplugged there was a dot that appeared. I installed new fuses and replaced the stoplight switch and didnt help. Im trying to figure it out but Im not sure what to do now, thinking its a wire on the spotlight switch but before i waist more time thought I would ask an expert.

asked by: Blake

Expert Reply:

When a brake controller only works with the manual override and not with the brake pedal that indicates a problem along the brake controller red wire that carries the input signal from the brake switch. Use a circuit tester like # PTW2993 and test the red wire leading into the brake controller when you step on the brake pedal.

If the wire does show power then the most likely culprit is that the controller is broken since you already checked for a blown or missing stop light or CHMSL fuse.

I attached an FAQ on troubleshooting brake controllers for you to check out also.

If you need to replace your brake controller. The brake controller we recommend the most is the Prodigy P2 Brake Controller part # 90885. This is the best selling controller on the market because of how easy it is to setup and use, and how well it works.

expert reply by: Jameson C