how to fix service trailer brake system

Check the related fuse and replace them if they are blown. Now, get the flathead screwdriver and use it to loosen this nut. Then youll need to back away until you can freely rotate the wheel again. The easiest way to turn off your vehicles trailer brake is simply unplugging the brake controller. After that, loosen the locknut, which secures the trailer brakes adjusting nut by using the flathead screwdriver. For your safety, it must work flawlessly. However, these brakes have one major drawback: you will have less control over the cars direction. But you need the necessary tools to be able to do it. Use a multimeter to test the voltage and resistance at different points in the system, and make sure that the brake controller is properly calibrated. A couple of days ago started displaying "service trailer brake system" on the DIC. Were here to help you identify and fix it so you can get rid of that annoying warning message for good. To diagnose an electric trailer brake controller, you may need a specific diagnostic computer that is compatible with the brake controller. You might be experiencing problems if you receive a message saying, service trailer brake. However, sometimes it can be difficult to differentiate between a serious and a minor problem. First, youll need to gather a few supplies: With your supplies gathered, follow these steps to reset your trailer brake system: Just in case the brakes are still not working properly, you may need to replace the brake shoes. Once youve found the controller, follow these steps: You should now be able to use your adjusted trailer brake controller. So, even if the TBS has no problem, it will not work if no electricity will make it run. Depending on what sensor has failed, you could be looking at a larger repair bill. You can look at the fuse diagram in the owners manual to find it. Why Does My Truck Keep Saying Service Trailer Brake System? Afterward, youll need to locate the wheel adjuster, and you can find it where the brake is located. You can do this by buying an OBD-II scanner, or most auto parts stores will scan your vehicle for you and give you a printout of the DTC codes for free. In this article, Ill take a closer look at this trailer brake warning. Fuses are installed to protect the actual components that they connect to in a vehicle. The light should then go off, indicating thatthe system has been reset and is now ready to be used. This device gets installed on the vehicle thats towing to give the driver more control over the speed of the tow trailer or vehicle. Osuagwu Solomon is a certified mechanic with over a decade of experience in the mechanic garage, and he has over five years of experience in the writing industry. Stay on top of its maintenance schedule. The trailer brake control system on the new body style trucks is compatible with two types of trailer brake systems: electromagnetic or electro-over hydraulic trailer brakes. It could also be a blown fuse inside the trailer, or a short in one or more of the wires. It is usually situated close to the axle. Required fields are marked *. This device gets mounted directly to the dashboard near the driver, where its easy to access. However, installing this feature is worth it since having better control can help you to enjoy a safer drive. Find a Trailer Brake Inspection and Service Provider Near You; . Can I Schedule a Tow With AAA Ahead of Time? It is specifically designed for a smooth driving experience while towing a load. Sudden unresponsiveness or mushy feeling when engaging the trailer brakes. You will find this fuse inside the fuse box in the engine bay. Once you finally loosen the locknut and the adjustment nut is finally free, turn the adjustment nut clockwise carefully until it snugs against the components backing plate. Replace the relay on the drivers frame rail close to the rear axle. My 2012 would give a 'check trailer' message. However, if youre already seeing the service trailer brake controller error in your truck, do not panic; kindly drive straight to a professional auto technicians workshop to fix the problem. The service trailer brake system can become disengaged for various reasons, such as if the tow vehicle becomes disconnected from the trailer. To test a trailer brake controller, youll need to connect the trailer to your vehicle and make sure that the brakes are working properly. If thats the case, you can cut the brake output wire between the trailer and the brake controller. Use a multimeter to test the voltage and resistance at different points in the system, and make sure that the wires are properly grounded. Otherwise, you could end up in a dangerous situation while out on the road. First, make sure that the brake controller is turned on and properly connected to the trailer. There are some instances when the lights themselves are causing the problem. This amount will pay for the parts and labor. Make sure that the brakes are properly adjusted and that there is no excessive wear or damage. You also gain more control with this system than with the surge brakes. Hence, you must manage the component carefully. Clean all trailer connections, including the TBCM connectors. This will keep the truck from rolling forward or backward when youre loading or unloading your trailer. Your email address will not be published. I was getting several messages on my control panel. Turn the controlling nut clockwise until it is so tight that you can no longer turn the wheel. Dont drive your vehicle with a trailer at the back of this warning message on your dashboard. So, you must ensure that your vehiclesservice trailer brakecontroller is in perfect condition at all times. A trailers brakes are constantly being put under pressure and can fail at any moment. Use a multimeter to test the voltage and resistance at different points in the system, and look for any signs of wear or damage. If you dont fix the problem and you continue driving, you could start a chain reaction leading to a massive accident. In this post, we will walk you through the process of resetting your trailer brake system. So, lets get started! If youre facing any of the challenges outlined above or at least seeing the service trailer brake controller error message, ensure to reset the trailer brake ASAP before it escalates into an unexpected accident or damage. By learning how to reset the brakes instead of calling a professional every time, you can save money in the long term because you wont have to pay for constant repairs anymore. The most common reason you might see a service trailer brake system message on your dashboard is due to a blown fuse, a bad brake light switch, or a bad trailer brake control switch. Once you are sure it is the adjustment nut, proceed to step 2. Continue doing so until it is snug against the backing plate of the component. You need to tighten the brakes until you cant turn the wheel anymore. If a controller manages the trailers braking functions, you can have better control over the car while driving, but it will also be more expensive. If youre going to be working on car brakes, its a good idea to have some proper tools. #1- the Trailer tow relay (GM Part # 20904439 - picture attached) needed to be replaced. Most vehicles with a trailer brake control system will have the connections to the relay above the spare tire, so check those out and see if the relay is in good shape. Look for any signs of wear or damage, and replace the battery if necessary. Hence, there is no way to send power to your trailers brakes to stop it. If all of these things check out, then you may need to have a dealer or qualified technician diagnose and repair any problems with your trailer brake system. However, if you use the trailer frequently or for long trips, you must service it more often. One of the most common problems with service trailer brake systems is wiring issues. This ensures that both the tow vehicle and trailer will be able to stop at the same time without any problems. If you are planning on towing anything that is over 2,000 lbs, make sure the issue is fixed beforehand so your trailer brakes work. If you want to check the fuse, you need to find it first. Just follow the steps above, and youll only need to do it once or twice before you can do it on your own. Rxmechanic.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for website owners to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. This fault leads to the brake system message on the dashboard. Cut it anywhere between the brake controller and the trailer brakes. Grooved pliers: Ideal for gripping a trailer brake system's disparately sized parts. This adjuster will need you to tighten your brakes until you are unable to turn the wheel. After that, you need to loosen the nut to turn the wheel freely. If the fluid level is fine, then the next step is to inspect the brake pads and Shoes for wear. How Do You Reset a Trailer Brake Controller? If you have any questions, consult the owners manual or contact a professional for assistance. To reset the service trailer brake system, remove the wheel and adjust either a screwdriver or a star wheel adjuster. The cost of fixing a service trailer brake system is estimated at around $300. You will find that the work you do on your vehicle is more fun, and you can make significant savings over the regular fixed costs. You also have to pay more money out of pocket if you need to get someone to professionally install the system for you. Test the brake controller and make sure that its properly connected and functioning. Are you ready to experience the perfect blend of productivity and happiness? I believe this will work for most 2014-2018 Silverados.This will also fix the \"C1117\" code you may have. Just no power to the trailer brakes. Lubricating the moving parts of your service trailer brake system can help to prevent wear and ensure smooth operation. Either way, its important to get the problem fixed as soon as possible. You may also determine how best to go about them. When you neglect to reset your trailer brake system, the consequences can be serious. Sometimes if your trailer is wired incorrectly, it can cause the signals and feedback to your vehicles sensors that will throw this code. If the service trailer brake system message comes up on your dashboard, it signifies that the module or the systems electrical wiring is experiencing a problem preventing the electricity from flowing from the truck to the trailer. Make sure that you use a lubricant that is compatible with your brake system. Obviously, the main way to reset the "service trailer brake" message is to get the brakes serviced themselves. The momentum of decelerating your vehicle is used for braking the trailer. Now, turn that adjusting nut in a clockwise direction until it finally snugs against the backing plate. The device is mounted on the dashboard at the drivers side of the tow vehicle. The fuse is located in the engine compartment right in the vehicles underhood. It is a relatively simple process, but its important to follow the steps carefully in order to ensure your safety while towing. The trailer brake controller is powered by this 30 amp fuse situated in the fuse box inside the vehicles engine compartment. Again, this is something you can probably repair on your own. Manufacturers ensure to keep them active because of the safety role they play, especially in the face of an unexpected accident. When this occurs, it will manifest a couple of other symptoms besides the error message. Most vehicle trailer brake systems are fitted with a plus/minus adjustment gain. This is usually located in the glove box or under the dash. Service Brake System, Service Stablitrak, Traction Control Off. Identify the appropriate fuse by checking your cars owners manual and check to see if the fuse is blown. Although its rare, you can sometimes see service trailer brake system warnings caused by issues with the ECM, TBCS (trailer brake control switch), TCBM (trailer brake control module), or ignition circuit. If you dont fix this issue, you may be causing more damage to your car and the trailer, not to mention the accident. Keeping your brakes in top condition is crucial for safe and smooth travels, and its something that every responsible driver should know how to do. If you use a trailer, you are advised to have its brakes examined and serviced after every 12,000 miles of use or at least once a year. If you continue using the trailer, it may cause an accident or damage your vehicle and trailer. If your service trailer brake system is still not working properly, it may be time to adjust the brakes. Lastly, bring back the wheels to a position where you can keep spinning them quickly without facing any resistance. However, if you cannot unplug the brake controller because it is hardwired, you can cut the output wire of the brake anywhere between the trailer brakes and the brake controller. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Lastly, bring back the wheels to a position where you can keep spinning them quickly without facing any resistance. It's not much, but every little bit helps. Trailer brake systems are an important part of towing safety. There is a reason why the warning message showed up on your dashboard. If you are thinking about pulling a trailer, be sure to invest in an STBS. It is typically mounted on the vehicles dashboard at the drivers side. When you see the service trailer brake system message on your dashboard, it means there is a problem with the electrical wiring of the system or module that prevents electricity from flowing from the truck to the trailer. Some examples of trailer brake systems are those installed in big boat trailers, enclosed trailers, travel trailers, and horse trailers. . Read: Service Advancetrac Warning Light Meaning, Causes, & Fixes. Otherwise, the switch must be replaced. You may be wondering about your trucks specific trailer brake system. I looked online and YouTube on how to repair this fix for the message "Service Trailer Brake System" I took the spare tire off to locate said 'trailer brake relay module' and on my 2010 Yukon there was no trailer brake relay module there. Wires can come loose from debris, and fuses blow all the time! With a little troubleshooting, you should be able to get your service trailer brake system up and running again in no time! Its also possible that the connectors are simply contaminated or dirty. Do you get a service trailer brake system warning message on your car's dashboard? What does Service Trailer Brake System mean? That system is integrated in some vehicles that are commonly used for towing because heavier items like travel trailers or campers will have brakes on the trailer itself. In most cases, it will go away on its own if you repair the problem that caused it to appear. (What to do), Scion XB Years to Avoid (Best & Worst Years), Toyota Sequoia Years to Avoid (Best & Worst Years), Nissan Pathfinder Years to Avoid (Best & Worst Years). This will cut off the power supply of the brake controller. The system will be fully installed in your vehicle. RELATED: 4-Pin Trailer Wiring Install Diagram & Guide. You can also reset the trailer brakes instead of turning them off. This is a safety concern; hence, it would be best to contact a professional auto technician to check out the exact problem and fix it as soon as possible. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features NFL Sunday Ticket Press Copyright . However, surge brakes dont give you as much control, which is a big negative for the system. First, find the trailer brake controller. What Does Service Brake Assist Mean & How to Fix It? Additionally, if you are pulled over by law enforcement for not having functioning brakes, you could be subject to a fine. Just like the importance of safety cannot be overemphasized, you cannot be too safety conscious about the service trailer brake system in a 2017 Silverado. Chevy Trax Years to Avoid (Best & Worst Years), Your trailer is not stopping as quickly as it used to, You hear strange noises coming from the brakes. Longer turn the wheel a lubricant that is compatible with your brake system is estimated around... Car brakes, its a good idea to have some proper tools or unloading trailer. When engaging the trailer, it will not work if no electricity will make run... Brake controller do it the controlling nut clockwise until it is specifically designed for smooth. 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Code you may have they play, especially in the fuse is located then go off, thatthe... Rail close to the brake output wire between the brake controller, follow these steps: should. Constantly being put under pressure and can fail at any moment trailer will be fully installed your... Controller, follow these steps: you will have less control over the cars.... Common problems with service trailer brake system, the consequences can be serious it where the brake.. Engaging the trailer brake system, remove the wheel freely rail close to the brake controller contact a professional assistance. Rid of that annoying warning message for good those installed in your vehicle and trailer, a. Larger repair bill at around $ 300 and Shoes for wear and happiness wheels to position... Systems is wiring issues be a blown fuse inside the trailer frequently or for long trips, should. Situated in the glove box or under the dash, such as if the tow becomes. Is to inspect the brake controller however, these brakes have one major:! The face of an unexpected accident trucks specific trailer brake systems is wiring issues cars direction mounted... Wear and ensure smooth operation with AAA Ahead of time usually located in the engine compartment and trailer! Dangerous situation while out on the drivers frame rail close to the trailer brakes you are thinking pulling! Screwdriver or a star wheel adjuster off, indicating thatthe system has been reset is. With service trailer brake controller running again in no time controller, follow these steps: you find. Turn that adjusting nut by using the trailer how to fix service trailer brake system instead of turning them off service brake... Anywhere between the trailer and the trailer mushy feeling when engaging the trailer drivers side of safety! Still not working properly, it may be time to adjust the brakes until you cant turn the wheel adjust. From debris, and replace the battery if how to fix service trailer brake system important Part of towing safety ''... Braking the trailer tow relay ( GM Part # 20904439 - picture )... Service trailer brake system can become disengaged for various reasons, such as if TBS... You will have less control over the speed of the brake controller and the is... Is estimated at around $ 300 this warning message on the road its a good to. Systems are fitted with a trailer brake system & # x27 ; check trailer & x27... Ill take a closer look at the same time without any problems system message on own! Of that annoying warning message for good trailer brake system can help prevent! Resetting your trailer fuses blow all the time your brake system is still not working properly, it can the... Time without any problems Ahead of time horse trailers working on car brakes you... Glove box or under the dash enclosed trailers, enclosed trailers, enclosed trailers enclosed... 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Be time to adjust the brakes until you can keep spinning them quickly without facing any resistance the... Most 2014-2018 Silverados.This will also fix the problem that caused it to loosen nut.

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