Finding the Wire for the Cold Side of Brake Switch on a 2001 Chevy Express Van

Updated 06/15/2024 | Published 10/17/2014

Question:

I got a lot of info out of this video so I could confidently install my brake controller, but I am still stumped about one thing, how to install the controller wire to the cold side of the brake switch. The brake switch unit on my 2001 Chevy Express passenger van is a plastic box like arrangement with six wires coming out of it: a white wire, an orange wire, a brown wire, a purple wire, a green wire, and a green-white stripe wire. I do not know which one of these is the cold side wire to attach to. I can find the hot side wire with my tester but do you have any idea which wire is the cold side wire? Thanks for any help you can render.

asked by: Mike B

Expert Reply:

To find the cold side of the brake switch on your 2001 Chevy Express Van you will need to use your circuit tester to test the brake switch wires. The van key might have to be turned on for this test.

You will need the wire that shows power only when the brake pedal is pressed. When you release the pedal it should not have power. And it should also not have power with the headlights or turn signals on.

On newer models, 2003 and up, the cold side wire is a white wire so test that one first.

expert reply by: Michael H

Rick C.

6/15/2024

Hi Michael H, Thank you for your help in finding the brake light wire. I have a 2004 Chevy Express 3500 and your last remark about 2003 model was just the info I needed. ?? We (my wife and I) just bought a travel trailer and in the process of installing the brake controller. I watched your videos bought the mirror extension from you guys. Next up will be the balance beads for the new tires. Sincerely, Rick