If your truck’s dashboard displays the warning “Service Trailer Brake System,” this
could indicate either an electrical disconnect or malfunction in its control module.
You can reset this system using either an adjustable wrench or flathead screwdriver.
No matter the cause of a warning light, never ignore it as this could lead to an unexpected and fatal accident.
Brake Controller
A trailer brake controller can usually be found located beneath the dashboard of any
car featuring towing capabilities. This device receives signals from your car’s
computer and transmits them directly to your trailer’s electric brakes so they can
stop when necessary. Unfortunately, sometimes this controller malfunctions; you
may see a “service trailer brake system” message appear on your Chevrolet
dashboard as a result.
This problem could be caused by anything from a malfunctioning control switch to a
loose wire that leads to your rear trailer connection. Once this problem arises, it’s
important to quickly identify and address its source so you can continue driving your
vehicle safely. In order to do so successfully, a few tools such as ratchet wrench,
screwdriver and jack may come in handy; although fixing this issue should be relatively straightforward.
Brake Pressure Sensor
Most car models with trailer brake systems feature a control switch located
underneath the steering wheel that may fail, leading to the Service Trailer Brake
System warning message appearing. Connectors on this switch could also become
contaminated or dirty over time, which is another common cause.
If the service trailer brake system message appears on your truck, there are multiple
methods you can take to reset its trailer brakes. This requires several tools –
including a screwdriver and hammer. Please follow all step-by-step instructions
closely as this could damage your vehicle if not done properly.
There are various issues that could impede your trailer brakes, from a
malfunctioning sensor or fuse to improper wiring. But you don’t need a mechanic;
simply follow these steps to repair them yourself!
Brake Relay
Wenn your truck displays the “Service Trailer Brake System” message, it can be an
extremely daunting experience. Without intervention, your vehicle won’t be safe
enough to tow a load – meaning no safe towing of loads at all! However, quick
diagnostic tests should allow you to determine where exactly the problem lies and fix it immediately.
To fix this, unplug the brake controller or cut its output wire somewhere along its
path from controller to trailer brakes – this will prevent electricity or power from
flowing to it and will effectively block its use.
Make sure the Park Lamp fuse (Relay 63) located on the passenger side edge of your
instrument panel fuse block access door is not blown, and check that wiring to the switch is intact.
Fuse
Your truck’s fuses act as a safeguard to monitor power usage. They serve as an
extra safeguard to make sure that electronic systems run as they should without
using too much power. Should anything go amiss within its trailer brake system, a
fuse will blow and prevent electricity from reaching that component – leading to an
alert on your dashboard display and possibly stopping further problems from developing.
Fuse replacement is simple; just buy them at any auto parts store at an economical
price and use a circuit breaker that resets automatically. If you are uncertain which
fuse to purchase, get help from your mechanic in selecting an appropriate fuse option.
Maintaining 100% safety awareness cannot be stressed enough. Knowing how to
reset your trailer brake controller effectively is crucial, although the process involves
several tools and may take some time. Some dealerships have noted that codes
don’t appear automatically, making it hard for them to know where they should
begin when resetting it.