Snowmobile Trailer Running Lights Stop Working, Other Lights Fine, Towed with 2013 Subaru Outback

Published 10/30/2014

Question:

I have towed a fair amount with my Outback without issue however ran in to a snag this past weekend. I picked up a new Mission single place snowmobile trailer. Hooked it up and tested the lights and everything works fine. However after a few minutes, the running lights go out. Doesnt matter if I have the vehicle headlights at full on or on auto. Turn signals, brake lights etc all work. I noticed if I braked or let the hazards cycle once or twice, the running lights would come on for a little bit but then go back out.

asked by: Chip

Expert Reply:

This sound like a bad ground. 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