Is it feasible to locate the reason why your trailer tail lights are not working? This is a useful approach you can use to troubleshoot why trailer tail lights are not working, when other lights are. Make sure that the trailer plugs and socket connectors are clean.

It was observed that when the headlights were turned on, the tail lights on our trailer were not working. It should be noted that despite the fact that the trailer cord was attached, however, just the reverse lights on the trailer and the brake lights appeared to be not working. There was no problem with the trailer blinkers and the brake lights. In an endeavour to figure out what was causing this problem, I dived into this mystery.

There are several factors that can contribute to trailer running lights not working as well as how you can determine the cause. The reasons for trailer lights not working are also answered in three FAQs that are listed at the end of this article.

So without further ado, let’s get right into the topic of fixing trailer lights that are not working.

 

How to troubleshoot trailer tail lights that are not working.

 

It is imperative to switch on your headlights and attach your trailer to your vehicle. Are your trailer’s tail lights and running lights illuminated when you turn it on? You do not need to read any further if that is the case. It is always a good idea to try these simple steps first if your trailer tail lights are not working.

When all the running lights are out and the tail lights are not working, it is almost certainly not the bulbs. Nonetheless, if the trailer tail lights appear burned out, you can replace them to rule out the simplest solution.

The subsequent task is to ensure that the trailer cord is securely seated in the socket. In addition, inspect the connectors inside both plugs and sockets closely.

It is possible to prevent clean contact between a plug and a socket due to corrosion, debris, and oxidation. All the connections inside the trailer plug should be cleaned with a small needle file.

 

Causes of trailer tail lights not working.

 

Using a flat needle file and a small steel needle file, clean the connectors to remove corrosion and oxidation. Ensure that all dust and filings are removed from the connections by blowing into them.

TIP: Wear a pair of safety glasses or close your eyes before blowing dust.  

Each connector on the trailer cord plug, as well as each terminal inside the socket, should be thoroughly cleaned.

Ensure that the socket terminals and trailer plug connectors are in firm contact. To create more contact point pressure, bend the center connector and/or leads inside the socket gently. The blades should be bent outward for better contact with the outer circumference of the plug’s leads.

Disclaimer: There is a possibility that your plug might differ from that of another model.

If you bend them excessively, you may not be able to seat the plug.

NOTE: Make sure you never touch the power lead in the socket to a different connector!

As a result, you will be able to identify the contact that may be causing the problem with your trailer tail lights not working.

You can reconnect your trailer as soon as you have wiped every bit of the contact points on the plug and outlet. Check if you can fix the trailer tail lights not working by turning on your headlights.

It worked for me, but my reverse lights on the trailer still were not working after using this method. As a next step, I’ll replace the outlet and the plug.

 

Troubleshooting Guide For Trailer Running Lights Not Working – FAQS.

 

Is it true that the trailer running light have a fuse?

 

The trailer running lights do have a fuse attached to them, yes. Depending on the type of vehicle and even the model year, the location of the battery will vary. A 2009 – 2014 Ford F150 has a fuse for the trailer running light at the very base of the tow hook. It is a 20-amp blue circuit breaker.

 

What are the locations of the fuses for the trailer lights?

 

It is possible to locate the fuse for trailer lights in the fuse box/panel of your vehicle. It is recommended that you refer to the owner’s manual for your vehicle to find the fuse box location. Recent Ford F150 models typically have fuse boxes in their footwells or engine compartments.

Check the right-hand side of the passenger footwell (the side that is behind the trim panel). Trim panels can be removed by pulling them and swinging them off from the side. In addition, pull the fuse panel cover away by pushing the tabs on both sides. In the engine compartment, you should be fortunate enough to see the fuse box after popping the hood. There is usually one at the far left hand side or near the front of the compartment.

 

The following are some final thoughts on the issue of trailer running lights not working.

 

Now that you know where to look when your trailer running lights are not working, you can take care of the problem on your own. If you are unsure of how to deal with the problem, you should hire an auto technician.

It is possible to worsen the situation if you do the troubleshooting process without adequate DIY skills. A professional may have to charge more for replacement parts, which may result in a higher bill.

 

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