Service trailer brake is a sign which blinks on the dashboard when the integrated trailer brake module malfunctions. With this message, the trailer does not get power from the towing truck.
What Does Service Trailer Brake System Mean? Service trailer brake system is a warning that appears due to malfunctioning trailer brakes, faulty electrical cords, and malfunctioning built-in sensors. In addition, it is due to the broken brake light and control switches, clogged circuits, and malfunctioning fuses.
A trailer brake is a hydraulically controlled system that depends on the momentum and trailer weight to regulate the brake. With a brake controller, they connect with the pickup trucks and utilize electric power to use momentum.
Any electrical or mechanical fault of the brake system leads to a specific sign. The following are a few reasons that trigger this warning on the dashboard.
Malfunctioning trailer brake module
The trailer brake system has a factory-installed module with a built-in controller to monitor and regulate the current flow. With the module, you can optimize the trailer speed according to the movement of the tow truck.
Both units can stop simultaneously due to the correlated system. You can find the OEM device on the driver’s side of the dashboard inside the passenger compartment of RAM 1500.
Due to electrical surges and incorrect current flow, the module malfunctions. However, you can reprogram a few controllers by removing the connector from the circuit for around 2 to 3 minutes.
As a result, it immediately resets the equipment and supports the circuit. For resetting the entire module, remove the wheels from the trailer.
Then, find the nut that promotes adjustment of both units. Near its axle, you can find the nut.
Adjust a flathead, sharp and efficient screwdriver on the nut, rotate it opposite, and loosen the nut that locks the adjustment bolt.
Furthermore, move the adjustment nut in the clockwise direction and allow snuggling in front of the backing plate.
It resets the module with mechanical changes. Never over-tighten the nut because it restricts the standard performance of the system.
Faulty electrical cords
The malfunctioning electric circuits put variable current loads on the high-performance electrical cords. As a result, their external protective layers crack and lose their standard efficiency.
In such circumstances, the cords cannot send constant and stable electrical input signals to the rear attached trailer.
Due to these problems, the Chevy Silverado cannot handle the trailer speed and start and stop conditions.
A warning message blinks on the dashboard and shows the problems with the built-in electric passage.
However, the power flow passage of these systems is complex, and you cannot run it with damaged wires.
For repairing, take the help of a mechanic and keep the system intact. Replace the old and damaged cords with new wires and connectors.
Malfunctioning built-in Sensors
The built-in sensors are tiny devices that can regulate the input and output signals. Also, the factory-installed module uses a master cylinder that ensures the standard performance of the entire equipment.
Due to a malfunctioning master cylinder, the message illuminates on the dashboard display of GMC Sierra. The sensors and complex, and you can change them with professional assistance.
With DIY methods, approach them in the engine unit, remove them by detaching the nuts, and adjust a new sensor.
For this purpose, drain the brake fluid with a valve and collect it in a container. Then, open the engine compartment, find the clamps and remove them with a flat screwdriver.
Remove the gasket and cover and drain the reservoir. Adjust a wrench on the connector, loosen them from the brake lines and remove the washers.
Remove the master cylinder, adjust a new option, and re-tighten all the nuts and bolts.
Replacing a malfunctioning master cylinder takes around 6 to 7.5 hours because it is a complex procedure.
Broken control and brake switches
The controller has a switch that supports the power flow and stabilizes the surges. It is present inside the dashboard and works with the integrated module.
The switch breaks due to internal current fluctuations. Furthermore, it fails due to internal contamination and clogging. As a result, you will see a message on the display about the trailer brake system.
For its replacement, open the dashboard and find the switch. Remove the connectors and electric wires.
Furthermore, adjust a new switch in a similar circuit. It can remove the warning indication from the display screen.
The trailer brake light has a separate switch and fails due to an incorrect electric supply. Its replacement is necessary and costs you around $5 to $15.
Approach it in the instrument panel, check the broken harness and replace it. Then, remove the old and malfunctioning light switch and install a new one inside the mounting spot.
Clogged circuits due to dirt
The trailer brake circuit has built-in breakers that control the electrical surges. Due to voltage changes, these breakers trip and lose their functionality.
Moreover, they suddenly shut off due to loss of power. As a result, the brakes cannot achieve and utilize the current in different passages.
It happens due to the clogging of fuel lines and rusting of connectors. Furthermore, the contaminated circuits cannot support the controller and brake system of the RAM 1500.
Due to the massive voltage load, they undergo several failures and require instant repairing. For their stability, approach an electrician and professional mechanic.
Troubleshoot the circuit with OBD scanners and assess the section which undergoes problems. Alter the broken components of the circuit and check its performance after multiple intervals.
Moreover, you can clean the contaminated and clogged connectors with commercial cleaners and soft dusters.
Malfunctioning fuses
An electrically empowered module monitors the performance of trailer brakes at a standard level. The system depends on continuously working electric fuses and their internal current flow.
A 30 ampere, tiny and durable fuse empowers the system. It sends electric signals to the controller of the trailer system.
Due to excessive voltage pressure, it blows out and cannot send electric signals. In these conditions, the entire system malfunctions due to inadequate power flow and causes service trailer brake system warning.
Its replacement is essential to remove its fault. You should select an OEM-compatible fuse for the pre-existing electric circuit.
Open the hood of your Chevrolet Silverado and identify the fuse box in the engine section. Remove the terminals of the battery and allow the system to cool down.
Then, hold the fuse and pull it with a specific amount of force. Clean the surface, adjust a new fuse in the factory-installed socket and push inwards.
Reassemble terminals, run the electric voltages and stabilize the power flow. The fuse replacement may cost you around $11 to $18.
The time depends on the complexity of the procedure and configuration of the fuse box on different trucks.
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