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According to the owner’s manual for a 2015 GMC Sierra, the “Service Trailer Brake System” error message can appear on models equipped with the factory integrated trailer brake controller (ITBC) and represents a problem in the trailer brake module or wiring that will not allow power to be sent to the trailer’s brakes.
How do you reset a trailer brake controller?
To reset the Pilot brake controller part # 80550 all you have to do is unplug the connector behind it for a few minutes. Doing that will return it back to the factory presets.
What does service brake system mean?
Service-brake system means the electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, or air brake components used to slow or stop a vehicle in motion.
Is there a fuse for the trailer brake system?
If the trailer brakes will operate with the manual switch, but not when the truck brakes are applied, check the CHMSL fuse in the fuse box under the hood. The lid to the fuse box will have a legend that will help you locate the fuse. Your trailer brakes might simply need adjusting.
Why does my truck keep saying service trailer brake system?
According to the owner’s manual for a 2015 GMC Sierra, the “Service Trailer Brake System” error message can appear on models equipped with the factory integrated trailer brake controller (ITBC) and represents a problem in the trailer brake module or wiring that will not allow power to be sent to the trailer’s brakes.
How can you tell if a brake controller is working?
For that you can use a circuit tester like the part # PTW2993 with one pin grounded and the other on the output pin. Then you can hit the brake pedal of the vehicle and you should see the brake controller operate like normal.
Why is my service brake system on?
Your brake pads are worn. Depending on your car make, model, and year, your service brake system light may become illuminated when the brake pads need to be replaced. However, like with brake fluid contamination, your car may not alert you to the need for new brake pads with a light.
What should you do if the brake system warning light comes on?
Drive the car to a parking area or onto the shoulder of the road as safely as possible and gradually press the brake pedal to bring your vehicle to a stop. Once safely stopped and out of the traffic flow, make arrangements to transport the vehicle to your favorite repair shop.
What does brake system problem mean?
In general, the dashboard light that indicates a problem with the brake system has an alarming red colour (depending on the vehicle model) to indicate that there is an immediate risk, potentially compromising the general safety of the vehicle. It should never be ignored.
How do I know if I need new trailer brakes?
After a trip, or, once per year is wise. Even if the brakes have had little use, load and weight may cause uneven wear on your braking system. Some obvious signs that your brakes are in need of replacement include noise, pulling, pulsing and pedal depression during braking.
How long do travel trailer brakes last?
Travel trailer brakes typically last 12,000+ miles. Some users have over 40,000 miles on their brakes without issue.
How do you check trailer brakes without a truck?
Testing Electric Brakes on Trailer without Connecting to Tow Vehicle Absolutely! If you would rather not connect the trailer to your tow vehicle, you can simply use a separate car/truck 12V battery to test the electric brakes on your trailer. You can apply power to the appropriate brake input pin on the trailer….
What causes trailer brakes to not work?
First, check the vehicle and trailer connectors for corrosion. If there is a bad ground connection the trailer brakes will not work. Next, check the brake controller wiring. Sever the blue brake output wire, leaving enough room to splice it back together when testing is done and then apply the manual slide.
Why are my trailer brakes not releasing?
Light is not coming on on controller. Brakes wont release. Expert Reply: If your trailer’s brakes remain engaged when it is plugged in to your vehicle, even when the controller does not indicate that it is generating a brake signal, this most often means that there is a short in the vehicle’s or trailer’s connector.
Why is my trailer brake controller not working?
Brake controller loses connection to battery ground. Ground wire was not connected to negative battery terminal, ground area does not have solid connection to ground. Ground connection to negative battery terminal is loose. Ground wire has been damaged and exposed wiring is touching a metal area.
How do you test a trailer brake control module?
Use a circuit tester, and check the red wire that exits the rear of the controller. This wire should only go hot when the brake pedal is pressed. If this checks out ok, then the controller is bad and must be replaced.
How does a brake controller know if a trailer is connected?
Aftermarket brake controllers send a small amount of voltage along the brake output wire, if a trailer is connected, the magnets in the brake assemblies will create a power draw. This power draw tells the controller that a trailer is connected.
What does OL mean on a brake controller?
The OL or overload error code indicates a short in the brake output circuit. Start by examining the trailer connector. Make sure that the pins on the vehicle side of the connection and the sockets on the trailer side are not damaged or corroded.
Why do my trailer brakes only work manually?
This is a fairly common problem and the solution is the red wire of the brake controller. Make sure it is connected to a circuit that only sees voltage when the brakes are applied and none when released. Most likely the connection is the issue and just reconnecting the circuit will cause the controller to work again.
