Unplugging the brake controller is the simplest way to stop trailer brake system,
however if that option is unavailable you may cut any output wire between it and
your trailer and disconnecting that way instead.
Warning signs from the service trailer brake system indicate that an ITBC has
become disconnected from its source of power and cannot function effectively,
which should be dealt with as soon as possible.
Brake Lights
Your truck’s trailer brake controller system can be either an original or aftermarket
device installed to give you more control of both speed and distance of tow vehicle
and trailer. Unfortunately, though, this device may malfunction from time to time
and not provide adequate power delivery – in such instances you will receive the
service trailer brake system warning message on your dashboard.
Most often, the issue lies within your car’s electronic components relying on a fuse
to regulate voltage transference; should there be too much current transferred, the
fuse may blow and shut down all systems within it.
Diagnose and remedy this problem as soon as you detect it for safety while towing.
Doing so ensures you can continue safely.
Brake Warning
Error code “Service Trailer Brake System Warning” occurs on vehicles equipped with
factory-integrated trailer brake controllers (ITBC). A malfunction in this module or
wiring could prevent electricity from reaching your brakes; if this error message
continues to appear it could indicate there is an urgent issue with ITBC that requires immediate attention.
While it may be possible to continue driving when the “Service Trailer Brake
System” message appears, doing so is neither safe nor recommended. A minor
problem with a trailer brake controller could result in severe damage to your vehicle
and cause an accident; for this reason it would be wiser not to tow your trailer until
all issues have been addressed.
Problems related to brake control switches under the steering wheel often result in
this error message, making repairs straightforward and returning brake lights to
normal operation. A new switch should resolve this issue quickly. Doing so will
remove error messages while also returning brake lights back into their proper states of operation.
Brake Controller
If your truck’s dashboard displays the “Service Trailer Brake System” warning, this
could mean your ITBC (integrated trailer brake controller) is experiencing issues.
These could range from modules or wiring issues preventing power from reaching it
to unplugging it; otherwise if hardwired to the trailer you may need to cut its output
wire somewhere along its route between controller and brakes for proper functioning.
Drivers may be able to navigate safely while keeping a service trailer brake
message displayed on their dashboard, however this is not advised. Instead, any
errors should be addressed immediately or else they could lead to unexpected and
dangerous incidents in the future. A common source for trailer brake controller
errors are broken or worn-out switches underneath steering wheels that malfunction
due to being exposed by dirt; another is connectors becoming dirty due to
environmental pollutants contaminating them with moisture or dirt contaminating
them altogether.
Battery
When the “service trailer brake system” message appears on your GMC Yukon’s
dashboard, this indicates an issue with the integrated trailer brake controller. This
could be caused by a module or wiring issue preventing electricity from passing from truck to trailer.
There are various solutions to address the issue of trailer brake malfunction. One
such way is replacing the fuse that controls them – you can find this fuse under your
dash near the cigarette lighter and should always use one identical to replace an old fuse with.
One way to reset the system is by taking a different approach: remove and adjust
the wheel with an adjuster such as a star wheel adjuster or flathead screwdriver and
make necessary changes until turning freely again – usually this solves any warning
issues, although for optimal results consult a mechanic regarding their trailer brakes first.