Trailer Brake and Turn Signals Not Working when Connected to 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe

Published 10/15/2014

Question:

I installed this wiring kit to my 2014 Santa Fe Sport no factory tow package. I plugged it into my trailer wires connection. I am getting no brake or turn signal lights on the trailer. Are there simple trouble shooting steps to take in order to find the issue. Would the wiring work without a proper ground connection?

asked by: Joe C

Expert Reply:

The wiring harness # C56184 for your 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe would not work or would not work properly if it is not grounded correctly. It needs to be grounded to a clean and corrosion free bare metal surface. No paint or coating. And it would be best if grounded by itself and not with other electrical device grounds.

There are some easy ways to test the vehicle side 4-Way to determine if it is the problem. I have included a link to the right to our help article that will help you.

It is also a possible issue with a ground on the trailer side. 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