Trailer Turn Signal Not Working with Running Lights on a 1993 Palomino Pop-Up Camper Trailer

Question:

When I put on my right directional it works fine but when my running lights are on the right directional is on but can not be seen because it seems the right brake light is on too because it is much brighter then the left running light.

asked by: John I

Expert Reply:

On trailers, the brake light and turn signals are on the same circuit and use the same bulb or LEDs. When you are braking and have the turn signal on, the turn signal should override the brake light on that side. The running lights should be independent of all of this.

It sounds like there is a bad ground somewhere. Ground problems normally show up when there is more draw on a system such as when you have the running lights on and then use another function like a turn signal or brake light.

Make sure that the vehicle side and trailer side connectors are clean and free of corrosion inside and out. The main connector grounds should be attached to clean and corrosion free bare metal surfaces.

The light grounds should also be attached to clean and corrosion free bare metal surfaces. If there is anything between a light ground and the metal trailer frame or if the trailer has an aluminum frame, tilt bed, or folding tongue, any of these things can interrupt the ground. Running jumper wires from the light grounds to the main trailer connector ground can help.

expert reply by: Michael H