When your dash shows a service trailer brake system message, this indicates a
problem in either your wiring or module which could potentially become dangerous
and lead to deadly consequences.
To help you identify where the problem lies, we will give you a checklist. When using
each one, try it one at a time before reporting back your findings.
Fuse
Whenever the service trailer brake system message appears on your truck, it could
be time for a fuse check. Electronic equipment often uses fuses as power monitoring
mechanisms; too much voltage traveling through a circuit could cause the fuse to
blow and prevent power being delivered properly to it.
Brake controllers that manage trailer braking can become especially vulnerable to
corrosion, seizure and binding which may result in it failing or producing a service
trailer brake system message.
To address this problem, you’ll need to remove the brake wheel and adjust its nut
that determines how tightly the brake attaches to each wheel – this can be
accomplished using either a star wheel adjuster or flathead screwdriver. Once this
process has been completed, turning your wheels should become easy and quick.
Brake Controller
Brake controllers are simple-to-install components that connect directly to your
trailer’s wiring system and allow you to operate its brakes remotely from within your
vehicle. In the event that one or its wiring are faulty, unplugging it and cutting its
output wire will reset it; alternatively you could cut anywhere along its route until
reaching its final destination if hardwired controllers cannot.
If this occurs, your trailer brakes will no longer function and a “Service Trailer Brake
System” message will appear on your dashboard. Address this problem immediately
in order to avoid an accident and damage to both the truck or trailer. There are
various solutions for solving this problem such as replacing controllers/relays/wiring
repairs as well as changing fuses on trucks that use ABS systems – however before
spending money on these repairs it’s advisable that first check all fuses first!
Brake Lines
Error messages related to brake lines could be the source of this error message, so it
is crucial that they are regularly inspected and any leaky lines replaced so you can
resume driving your truck as soon as possible.
Another possible cause for the “Service Trailer Brake System” light to illuminate on
your DIC could be due to a blown fuse. Fuses provide power to any electronic
component in your vehicle and it’s vitally important that any that have blown are
replaced immediately before driving your Silverado again.
Make sure that any fuses or relays related to trailer functions, usually found in the
power distribution center, have been tested with a volt meter to identify any
potential causes of issues. These could include trailer RT/LT fuses found there as well
as park lamp fuse labeled “INT PRK”.
Brake Wheel
If the “service trailer brake system” warning light appears on your dash, this
indicates an issue with wiring of your trailer or module that prevents electricity from
flowing between your truck and brake controller. To remedy the situation, remove
one wheel and tighten its adjustment nut until it can no longer be turned freely,
before loosening to enable free turning again.
Though not an immediate fix, taking your trailer to a dealer to have it diagnosed and
repaired can save both money and hassle. Also check out this video; it will provide
all the information you need to resolve this issue quickly and easily.