Two Aftermarket Trailer Wiring Harness Stop Working After 3 Years

Updated 08/07/2014 | Published 08/06/2014

Question:

Is it normal to go through these converters from time to time, I am having a problem with mine now, everything works great but now I dont have driver side turn or stop signal on trailer, but I do have running lights in that taillight, this worked before though. I am going to get out there with my test light tomorrow to try and determine if its the converter. If its the converter then the new one would be the third one in three years that I have installed. Is it normal for these to malfunction overtime like this?

asked by: Matt

Expert Reply:

Some people do go through trailer wiring harnesses often. It has a lot to do with the trailer side wiring as much as it does the elements and environment. A new trailer or trailer with new wiring in a dry climate would likely have less issues so it would not negatively impact the trailer wiring harness. I have included a couple of links that explain and show how to test the trailer side wiring.

You will want to make sure the wiring on the trailer is in good shape with no pinched or frayed wires.

The issue you are currently experiencing could be a ground problem. 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