If your 2015 GMC Sierra is showing the Service Trailer Brake System error message,
then it is crucial to address it quickly. Although driving with this error is safe, towing
will likely become impossible until a solution has been found and implemented.
Hydraulic Brakes
GM’s hydraulic brake system relies on momentum of your truck to decelerate and
stop your trailer, offering a safer, more reliable way to stop its trailer than surge
brakes but is slower and can put undue strain on brake components if its pressure becomes excessive.
Damaged trailer brake controller wiring may become compromised due to faulty
modules or relays, preventing signals from reaching their correct destination and
leading to systemic malfunction. As a result, service trailer brake messages could
appear on your truck’s dashboard, making it more difficult for you to stop your trailer as well as creating issues with its lighting and electronics.
Ofttimes, a blown fuse is at the root of any electrical issues. Checking with a volt
meter and replacing easily is usually enough to rectify this problem; otherwise it
could be time for replacing modules or relays – although this option might cost more and require professional services to fix.
Electric Brakes
If you own electric brakes, several things could lead to the service trailer brake
system warning message appearing. It could be related to wiring or controller issues;
shoes could need replacing; professional services could assist in solving these issues
as well. Some electric brakes include fuses that help them receive signals correctly
to keep working efficiently.
Error messages related to Service Trailer Brake Controller indicate there’s an issue
in either wiring or modules that inhibit power transfer between vehicle and trailer
brakes, and power being supplied from trailer to brakes. While you could drive with
this error message displayed, towing should be avoided until it has been rectified.
To address this problem, remove the wheel and use a “star wheel adjuster” or
flathead screwdriver to loosen its controlling nut. After taking this step, turn your
wheel until it no longer rotates freely before loosening its controlling nut until its tight again.
Surge Brakes
If a service trailer brake system message appears on your dashboard, it is wise to
get this checked immediately. A malfunctioning trailer brake system could result in
accidents; don’t put yourself or others at risk by waiting. Knowing what signs to look
out for can also help determine whether or not the message is real.
As the first step of diagnosis, check to see if the brake fuses are blown. These fuses
monitor power distribution throughout your vehicle’s power distribution center or
instrument panel fuse box and should always be checked regularly and replaced if
blown. Corroded connections and wires may also cause service trailer brake system
messages; to rectify these, check and replace fuses as required – the repair won’t
cost much depending on which controller and mechanic perform the work;
Trailer Brake Controller
A trailer brake controller should be installed on any vehicle towing a trailer in order
to better control its movement. When this device stops functioning correctly,
however, it could cause serious problems for both vehicle and trailer, so it is vitally
important that regular checks on this device and maintenance are undertaken on it.
Seeing “Service Trailer Bra System” messages on your dashboard indicates it’s time
to inspect the brake controller. First step should be locating an adjustment nut
which may be locked with a locknut; using wrench or screwdriver loosen it and turn
clockwise until movement can occur freely again.
Unplugging the brake controller is one of the quickest and easiest ways to disable it,
though you could also cut its output wire wherever between it and your trailer it runs
to do the trick. To ensure optimal safety when driving again, always consult a
professional before using this component again.