Troubleshooting Trailer Blinkers that Only Work When Brakes are Applied
Updated 08/01/2014 | Published 07/31/2014 >
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
Hi, I have a 1993 Toyota Pickup, 3.0L V6 engine, I have this connector installed and I have working brake lights, working running lights but problems with my signal lights. If I turn on the signal lights with the brakes pressed they will work properly, if I turn on the signal light without the brake lights pressed they do not work. The lights on this trailer work without issue when connected to another truck that came with a factory installed trailer hitch and wiring.
asked by: Ryan
Expert Reply:
This could be a ground problem. A bad ground connection can cause all sorts of problems. First check the trailer connectors on the vehicle and on the trailer for any dirt or corrosion and clean them out. Corrosion can also build up behind the connectors where the wires attach.
On the vehicle side, make sure that the main ground is attached to a clean bare metal surface on the frame. On the trailer side connector, again make sure that the main ground is attached to a clean metal surface.
Use a circuit tester like # PTW2993 if needed to test the pins on the vehicle connector without the trailer connected to see if the problem is on the vehicle or on the trailer.
I attached an FAQ article on trailer wiring and 4-way installs for you to check out as well.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Vehicle End Connector
- Converter
- No Tow Package
- 4 Flat
- Plug and Lead
- Plug-In
- Visible
- CURT
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Search Results: add a leaf
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Video: Hellwig Load Pro 15 Load Leveler Helper Springs: The Breakdown
- Shop: Hellwig Load Pro 15 Load Leveler Helper Springs - Below Axle
- Shop: Hellwig EZ-990 Helper Springs - Above Axle
- Shop: etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Shop: Hellwig EZ-550 Helper Springs - Above Axle
- Shop: 3-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 3,500-lb Trailer Axles - 23-1/4" Long
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Shop: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Video: Curt Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring - Trailer Hitch Wiring - C55379 Review
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Video: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness Review C56040
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Q&A: Comparing the Curt Hitch C13416 and EcoHitch Hitch 306-X7396 for a 2019 Toyota RAV4
- Search Results: suspension enhancement
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Video: How to Choose a Trailer Brake Controller
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Q&A: Firestone Air Bags for 2026 Ford F-350 FX4 Dually
- Q&A: How to Replace a Lance 6-Pin Plug w/ a Standard 7-Way Connector
- Shop: Gooseneck Hitch



