Troubleshooting Melted 7-Way Plug And Faint Lighting When Using Curt Echo C51180

Updated 04/17/2025 | Published 04/15/2025

Question:

I have a 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk with tow package. I pull a 2020 Apex Nano Travel Trailer. I’ve used the Curt Echo controller since 2021 with no issues. When I used my trailer last season, my left turn signal was flashing very faintly. I replaced the bulb and the fuse and checked the power at my Jeep, and things seemed to work again ok. I used my trailer for the first time again last weekend, and all the signal lights were very faintly flashing. Additionally, after I stopped driving, the Curt was melted to the 7-way connector on my Jeep, specifically the prong that controls the tail/running lights. I replaced the connector on the vehicle and directly plugged the trailer into the Jeep, but same issue with the faintly flashing lights. Any recommendations on what to check for this issue?.

asked by: Richard W

Melted 7-Way
(click to enlarge)

Expert Reply:

Hello Richard, thanks for reaching out. The most common cause of a melted trailer plug like that is a short somewhere along the trailer wiring. The issues you are describing also sound like you may have a bad ground as well.

What I suggest is you inspect your trailer wiring. Make sure you are grounded to good clean metal with no rust or paint. Check the rest of the wires for any shorts. Be on the lookout for any damaged, frayed or bent wire. Since the same thing happens with or without the Curt Echo controller it sounds like this is definitely an issue on the trailer side. Check that wiring and repair/replace as needed and you should be good to go. Sounds like you may need to replace your Echo as well since it melted.

I hope this helps. Leave a reply with any other questions or comments and I will get back to you.

expert reply by: Jesse M