A brake controller is an electric device that controls and activates a trailer’s electric brakes. The wiring of a brake controller is color coded and needs to be very carefully handled. If you don’t know how to wire a brake controller properly, it won’t function properly. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, it’s been reported that there are over 50,000 accidents every year related to towing. Brake controllers are vital to the safety and functionality of the vehicles that use them. Let’s take a closer look at everything you need to know about them.
1. The Correct Wiring
To install brake controller wiring correctly, you must ensure that you know the correct wiring. The wires are color-coded, and there are four wires to be aware of when handling a bare controller. The blue wire carries output from the controller, the black wire is responsible for supplying 12-volt power, the white wire is the ground, and the red wire is connected to the vehicle. When you’re installing or adjusting the wiring, you need to know exactly what each wire does to ensure it’s installed properly.
2. Disconnect the Battery Before You Install
Before you install brake controller wiring, you must disconnect the battery. Safety should be your number one priority when working with any electronic device. You don’t want to risk harming yourself because you weren’t careful enough. If you need to install new brake control wiring, then make sure you disconnect the battery first to eliminate the risk of electrocution.
3. Splice the Wiring If Your Vehicle Isn’t Equipped
Not all vehicles are equipped with a plug-and-play harness to accommodate brake controller wiring. To complete the installation, you need to follow the vehicle-specific wiring. If your vehicle can’t handle it, then you can splice the wiring to connect the brake controller. Before you begin any project involving electrical wires, you need to make sure that you’ve done the proper research and that you know what you’re doing to avoid damage or harm.
There are many things you need to ensure you’re aware of when it comes to brake control wiring. Be sure you know what each wire does and how to install the system on your vehicle and disconnect the battery before attempting installation. If you need brake controllers, then reach out to a professional at Hayes Towing Electronics today!
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