Warning lights for service trailer brake system no trailer indicate something is amiss
with your power supply to the trailer braking system, potentially due to wiring or module issues.
Once you receive this message, it is important to understand how to reset the trailer
braking system. The process is fairly simple and only requires a few tools such as a
flathead screwdriver, piece of wood or rock from nature, strong hammer and an assistant for ease of use.
1. Brake Shoes
If your trailer brake system is malfunctioning, you can fix it yourself for much less
than the cost of hiring a mechanic. Fixing it could take only minutes of your time if its adjustment issue.
First, gather several tools, including a flathead screwdriver. Next, remove and locate
the wheel before loosening its locknut for access. Now you can rotate clockwise the
adjusting nut until tight enough to prevent wheels from turning freely.
As a rule of thumb, it is recommended that you inspect and service your trailer
brakes every year or 12,000 miles. For optimal performance it may be wiser to
check them more often if you use your trailer frequently or tow heavy loads.
2. Brake Pads
Trailer brakes are generally hydraulic systems designed to use the weight of the
trailer to stop its motion, although certain vehicles utilize electric braking systems
which utilize an electronic signaling module that sends electronic commands directly
to activate its system.
A blown fuse is often at the heart of service trailer brake system warning messages,
as every electronic component on a vehicle requires one for proper functioning.
Once identified by consulting the owner’s manual of your car, identifying an blown
fuse can be easy – replacing it quickly will get you back out on the road quickly!
An ongoing issue can arise with 7-way connectors when they become disconnected
from each other, disrupting electrical flow between the tow vehicle and trailer’s
braking system, potentially leading to serious safety risks for both vehicles. To
remedy the situation, remove locknut from adjusting nut using screw driver before
rotating clockwise to reset.
3. Brake Controller
If your truck displays the service trailer brake system warning message, this typically
indicates an issue with its integrated trailer braking control module (ITBC) on GMC
Sierra. This computer should detect issues with your trailer brakes or wiring leading
to the rear of trailer; and generate codes to help identify problems for technicians to
quickly solve. Unfortunately, many owners have reported that its code-generating
system doesn’t always work effectively.
This type of controller uses an inertia sensor to monitor the deceleration of your
towing vehicle as you brake, sending out a signal to activate your trailer brakes with
equal intensity as the deceleration. Although more expensive than time-delay
controllers, it provides faster response and safer brake control for your tow vehicle.
Some factory-installed brake controllers feature a plus/minus dial that enables you
to easily change your gain setting. Alternately, you can remove the wheel and make
changes using either a star wheel adjuster or flathead screwdriver.
4. Brake Cables
Many people use electric trailer brakes, which require cables. Unfortunately, these
cables can become damaged from weather-related factors or dirt and corrosion
damage and become an inconvenience on long trips. A broken cable could become a serious source of concern on any journey.
Fixing this problem should not be difficult. First, locate the adjustment nut located
near the axle. Next, loosen its lock nut using a flathead screwdriver before turning
clockwise until snug against component’s backing plate – don’t over tighten or you
might cause complications! After doing all this work yourself, the “Service Trailer Bra
System” message should no longer appear on your dashboard; doing it yourself also
saves money by doing it quickly and inexpensively instead of visiting an auto repair shop!