Blue Ox Patriot II RF Controller Screen Blank After Replacing Fuse Troubleshooting Guide
Updated 06/17/2026 | Published 06/14/2026 >
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Question:
patriot ii braking system rf controller issues I can’t get my RF unit video to come on anymore. I replaced the fuse but the screen is blank when I plug it into the cigarette lighter outlet. It has BX050 on the back. I think that is the model number. It’s about 7 years old
asked by: Phillip W
Expert Reply:
Hi Phillip,
I know it's frustrating when the RF monitor goes blank because it takes away that confidence that everything is working properly while you're towing.
Since you've already replaced the fuse, the next thing I'd check is whether the 12 volt outlet itself has power by plugging in another accessory. I'd also verify the tow vehicle's battery voltage, since a low battery can sometimes prevent the Patriot system from operating correctly. It can help to start the vehicle and let it run for a few minutes to make sure the battery is fully charged.
It's also worth mentioning that the power cord on the Blue Ox Patriot 2 is a known trouble spot. We've seen cases where the 12 volt plug needs to be reinserted a few times or gently jiggled to establish a connection. Even with a good fuse, the center pin in the plug can sometimes fail to make solid electrical contact after years of use. If you suspect the power cord may be the issue, you can replace it with the Replacement RF Remote Power Cord for Blue Ox Patriot Braking System, part # BLU39UR.
I'd also make sure the breakaway switch is connected properly. If the breakaway pin is pulled, the system should immediately go into active mode. If the Patriot braking unit itself is powering up and showing its normal indicator lights, but the remote monitor screen remains blank, it may be worth trying to re-establish the connection between the monitor and the braking unit by bringing them close together and attempting to pair them again.
Can you tell me what you've tried so far besides replacing the fuse? Have you confirmed the 12 volt outlet has power, and does the Patriot braking unit itself still power on and go through its normal startup sequence?

Larry N.
6/17/2026
Our unit is less than a year old...no issues to date, so I have nothing I can contribute to the discussion. I hope Phillip gets his issue resolved.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional
- Flat Tow Brake System
- Brake Systems
- Proportional System
- Every-Trip Setup
- Built-In Battery
- Portable System
- Power Assist Brake Compatible
- Air Brakes
- Air Over Hydraulic Brakes
- Hydraulic Brakes
- Wireless Display
- Blue Ox
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Phillip W.
6/17/2026
Can you tell me what you've tried so far besides replacing the fuse? Have you confirmed the 12 volt outlet has power YES IT DOES, and does the Patriot braking unit itself still power on and go through its normal startup sequence? YES IT DOES. I contacted Blue Ox and they said that I needed to replace the RF Unit which I have ordered. Hopefully the new RF Unit will work and solve the issue. Thanks for your help.