Troubleshooting Curt RVi Series Shadow 2 Breakaway Not Working on 2025 Jeep Wrangler

Updated 03/04/2026 | Published 02/22/2026

Question:

I installed this on a 2025 Jeep Wrangler. When I pull the breakaway, I can hear it engaging but the cable does not move. What can I do to troubleshoot?

asked by: Dan D

Expert Reply:

Hi Dan; does the # RVI94FR cable pass through a tight grommet in your firewall? If the angle is sharp, the motor can engage but not generate enough leverage to move the cable under load. Straightening that path can solve this problem.

You also want to double check the cable tension and make sure it is properly connected. Disconnect the cable from the brake pedal arm and manually slide it back and forth. It should move smoothly with very little resistance. If it doesn't you’ve found your issue.

While the cable is disconnected from the pedal go ahead and pull the breakaway again and watch the actuator end at the unit. If the motor is spinning but the inner cable isn’t moving, the cable may have slipped inside the clamp or the set screw may not be tight. Inspect the connection at the actuator drum and verify it’s properly secured.

If that isn't the issue, make sure you have sufficient power. If there is a low voltage scenario you can hear it like you did but it won't have the power to actually engage. If you aren't getting enough power make sure your battery is fully charged and try again. I would also inspect the wiring and make sure all of your connections are good.

expert reply by: Robin H

RVi Series Shadow 2
(click to enlarge)

Dan

3/4/2026

I contacted Curt directly. They had me take off the hose going to the cylinder and confirmed that there was airflow when the breakaway was engaged (compressor running). From there they identified that there was an issue with the cylinder - they sent me out a new one that I will install this weekend and confirm that it fixed the issue.