Troubleshooting Brake Controller that Activates Truck Brake Lights Randomly

Updated 09/22/2014 | Published 09/21/2014

Question:

brakes are coming on the trailer when brake pedal is not activated. When truck is not hooked to trailer brake lights come on I can hear the controller clicking. The truck is a 1997 Dodge Ram

asked by: Brian H

Helpful Expert Reply:

The problem is either the wiring of your brake controller or the brake controller itself has internal problems. What it sounds like is happening is that the stoplight switch of your brake controller (usually red) is backfeeding onto the brake light circuit of your 1997 Dodge Ram which is activating the brake lights of your truck.

This would indicate that the controller has shorted out and would need to be replaced. I attached an FAQ on brake controller installs for you to check out as well.

Otherwise you will want to verify that you have connected the red wire of the controller to the correct stoplight circuit. You want to make sure the wire is attached to a circuit that only sees voltage when the brakes are applied and none when released.

For a brake controller I would recommend the Prodigy P2 Brake Controller part # 90885. This is our best selling brake controller because of how well it works and how easy it is to setup.

expert reply by: Jameson C