Can I Cut The Wire Going To My Brakes To Stop Brakes From Locking Up

Updated 12/15/2025 | Published 10/31/2024

Question:

Can I cut the brake wire on the one brake that’s locking up and still have brakes on other three til I get home?

asked by: Bill S

Expert Reply:

Hello Bill, that is an interesting question. If one of your brake assemblies is getting constant 12v power and locking up, then yes, cutting the wire would release the magnet and stop the brake from engaging. If something else is causing the brake to lock up, then cutting the wire would not do anything. I would only recommend doing this if you are taking the trailer directly to a shop. Driving without brakes on one side could cause bad sway or uneven tire wear so you would want to get this fixed as soon as possible.

expert reply by: Jesse M

Jesse M.

12/15/2025

Hey Bill, how did things go with the brake that was locking up on your trailer? Were you able to get it to the shop safely and have the issue sorted out? Your update could make it easier for others dealing with a similar brake problem.