When the Service Trailer Brake System message displays on your Chevrolet’s
dashboard, it usually means there is something amiss within one of its many
components – be it a blown fuse, bad trailer brake controller switch, tainted
connectors or something else entirely – of this complex system. A common cause
could be a blown fuse; but other issues might include dirty connectors.
Brake Lights
If you encounter the “Service Trailer Brake System” error message, it indicates a
problem with your trailer brakes that needs to be addressed immediately. It could be
caused by disconnected wiring or a defective module preventing electricity from
reaching them; though your vehicle remains safe to drive while this issue is
resolved. Until it has been addressed fully, do not use it for towing purposes until its resolution.
Resetting a trailer brake controller at home does not require expensive tools or
diagnostic equipment – sometimes just an adjustment may do, though if that fails
you may require replacing the module instead.
Unplugging your trailer brake controller is one of the fastest ways to reset it, or
cutting its output wire between it and your brakes if hardwired directly to them. Both
methods should take only minutes or so each, and many have found success using them!
Brake Assist
If the message “Service Trailer Brake System” pops up on your dashboard, this could
indicate an issue with your trailer brake controller. While not an immediate safety
risk, this issue should be rectified promptly to avoid further complications.
Avoid towing anything until you have addressed the issue; otherwise, towing could
damage the brakes and result in an accident. To start solving this problem, a few
tools will come in handy: these include a flathead screwdriver, piece of solid wood or rock and hammer.
Faulty fuses are one of the leading causes of service trailer brake system messages.
Every electronic component that runs on your car relies on these to monitor power,
and they will often blow if exposed to too much voltage. Therefore, consult your
owner’s manual in order to identify which fuse should be replaced immediately.
Trailer Brake Controller
Trailer brake controllers are essential pieces of equipment for any truck used to tow
trailers, as they help prevent trailers from pulling away during slowdown or colliding
into something unexpectedly.
Time-delayed and surge brake controllers are two types available on the market,
using momentum from deceleration of your vehicle to apply its electric braking
system on trailer. Users can customize the onset delay, power level and braking
duration settings according to personal needs.
A surge brake controller uses electromagnets to apply electric brakes on trailers.
This form of braking system is much more powerful than its time-delayed
counterpart; however, installation may be costly due to numerous wires which may
be difficult to manage; therefore it is advised that only professional installers
conduct this installation process. In addition, surge brakes can place undue strain on
your truck’s power steering pump.
Wiring
Car and truck manufacturers find creative ways to conceal parts, and this model’s
braking system is no exception. Troubleshooting it may be challenging due to
multiple electronic signals being affected simultaneously by malfunctions in its operation.
Often the issue lies with a trailer brake controller switch under the steering wheel
that may be malfunctioning and prompting an error message to appear on your
dashboard. Furthermore, its wiring could have become deficient so as to not send
signals through to their respective circuits correctly.
Replacement switches can be relatively affordable, yet difficult to locate. You’ll need
a screwdriver and some patience, once you locate an adjustment nut. Loosen it off
with the screwdriver before slowly tightening clockwise until snug against the switch
backing plate – be careful not to overtighten as this could break it! If this doesn’t
solve the issue then perhaps replacing all switches may be necessary.