Why Would Using 7-Way to 5-Way Adapter Not Let Boat Trailer Reverse

Updated 09/12/2025 | Published 05/16/2025

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Venturer NEXT Trailer Brake Controller - Up to 3 Axles - Time Delayed

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$81.77

LCD Digital Circuit Tester

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Question:

I have a 2023 Nissan Frontier with the 7 pin connector installed in the rear and it has the Tow Package. My Boat Trailer has a 5 Pin Plug . I purchased a 4/5 Pin Plug thatll plug into the 7 Pin Connector in the rear. I went to the Boat Ramp to Launch the Boat and the trailer kept braking as I was backing up. I have Surge Brakes. I know why it was braking . I cant figure out why its braking. I use to tow with a Kia Sedona and all I did was connect the 2- 5 Pin Plugs together. I assume theres a blue wire someplace in the Nissan Truck that was connected thatll prevent the braking ?? Thanks for any help.

asked by: John P

Expert Reply:

Hey John, the issue is that your reverse lockout solenoid is not activating on your trailer using the 7-way to 5-way adapter you have. This is most likely due to your 2023 Nissan Frontier 7-way not having the reverse light circuit active as this circuit is active on every vehicle. You can test this with a circuit tester like the # PTW2992 to test the center pin of your 7-way when the vehicle is reverse. Let me know what you find when you do this and we can see what's best route to go.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Jameson C.

9/12/2025

Hey John, did you have a chance to test the center pin of your 7-way connector with the circuit tester? I'm eager to hear what you discovered so we can figure out the best solution for your trailer braking issue.