Ford has consistently introduced additional safety systems to its trucks and SUVs to alert drivers to trailer-related issues, such as increased pressure on the vehicle or possible risks when towing.
The message “Wiring Fault on Trailer” is one of these alerts. Most drivers often question what this message implies beyond the obvious when it appears for the first time.
Ford’s “Wiring Fault on Trailer” notification illuminates when there is an electrical issue with the trailer brakes. There is an electrical problem between the trailer brake controller and the 7-pin connection at the bumper when the message and single tone appear on your screen without a trailer attached.
It is always essential to have brakes in excellent working condition while towing since the trailer increases the weight and load on the vehicle. Effective brakes are necessary for safe stopping.
If this notice appears on your dashboard, it’s crucial to correct the wiring immediately. A broken or malfunctioning wire may cause more damage to the car and the trailer and a severe loss of control while driving.
Dealing With a Trailer Wiring Fault
Regardless of the size of the trailer, additional safety measures must be taken while towing it behind your vehicle or truck. Although your car may have adequate power to pull the trailer, you still need the right trailering gear, wiring, and driving abilities to accomplish the job confidently and safely.
Ford has lately built its automobiles to display several warning messages about different trailer issues to guarantee that customers are always informed of their trailering arrangement. So, when you notice “Wiring Fault On Trailer,” you should understand that it is there on purpose to notify you of a critical error.
According to Ford, a short circuit on the electronic trailer brake output line caused this notice. It is typical for Ford cars with the 7-pin (or 7-blade) trailer connection to display the problem notice, instructing us to reset the electronic trailer brakes.
Sadly, the message might still appear if there is no caravan associated.
The alert should only emit one beep if there is no trailer hitch, indicating a wiring problem between the integrated trailer brake controller and the 7-pin connection at your rear bumper.
However, if the warning message only appears when you attach a trailer, your trailer’s electric brake wiring is probably the cause of the issue.
Since many Ford owners have reported losing all trailer brakes quickly after receiving this notice, it is important to treat this problem seriously since it poses a safety risk.
What to Do If a Trailer Warning Message Identifies a Wiring Fault
If no trailer is connected while the “Wiring Fault On Trailer” alert illuminates while you are driving, then the annoying beeping sound should be your only issue. However, if the error warning occurs while you’re pulling a caravan, we advise you to stop, contact a repair or roadside help immediately, and examine the whole system.
If they advise you to continue driving, go with great care. But please don’t hesitate to cooperate if they insist you require a tow truck or another vehicle to enhance your braking force.
How to Spot Issues with Trailer Wiring
Check the car
You should examine the trailer circuit and record if the electricity flows through the right wiring if the “Wiring Fault On Trailer” notice occurs without a trailer being connected. A short circuit must have activated the error warning if the current is diverted to a conductor other than the proper connection.
The 7-pin connection would be the ideal location to start inspecting as it is often the one that is exposed to the environment the most. A short circuit that results in a wiring failure warning may often be caused by corrosion, moisture, and dirt accumulating on and around the 7-pin connection. Check to see whether the issue is resolved by cleaning the 7-pin connection. To assist in sealing the electrical connection and avoid short-circuiting, you may use some dielectric grease.
The wires in the caravan harness might also rub against one another, which could result in a short circuit to either power or ground. If you are acquainted with automobile electrical systems, a multi-tester should help you find the issue.
Check the Trailer
Your trailer’s wires are probably to blame if you immediately get the “Wiring Fault On Trailer” notification after connecting the wiring harness to the 7-pin connection. Check for a loose or shorted connection on one or more of your brake cables.
Ford advises you to inspect the emergency breakaway mechanism on your trailer. The vehicle’s trailer wiring system detects a short-to-voltage scenario if the switch pin is unintentionally disconnected and emits a “Wiring Fault On Trailer” alert.
A warning notice will also appear if the brakes on your trailer use too much electricity from the car’s battery. Try reducing the “Gain” setting on your trailer brake controller to solve the issue. You may do this by turning the controller’s knob or by going to its settings in the SYNC® system of Ford vehicles.
Additional Typical Ford Trailer Messages
State of the caravan connection
If there is a problem connecting your trailer’s wiring harness, Ford also has a notice that appears on the dashboard. Depending on the model and trim, your Ford has a 4-pin or a 7-pin trailer wiring harness. The 7-pin connections often come as standard equipment with more expensive versions or as part of Ford’s towing package.
When this notice occurs, ensure all pins are securely fastened in their sockets and that none of them are broken or deformed. Verify that the trailer harness is firmly connected to the 7-pin connection on the towing vehicle and look for any obvious damage.
Not Detected: Trailer Brake Controller
If your Ford vehicle has a Trailer Brake Controller (TBC) function, and the trailer brake controller cannot be detected, the message “Trailer Brake Controller Not Detected” will be shown.
This could occur if your trailer brake controller is not correctly fitted or turned on. Ensure the connections to the wire harness are tight and firmly placed on the car. Then, via Ford’s SYNC system, turn on the TBC by navigating to “Settings” and choosing “Trailer Brake Controller.”
If the TBC is correctly set up and engaged, but you still see this warning, there could be another electrical or wiring problem. Look for loose or broken connections in the TBC system and trailer harness.
How Do Trailer Brakes Function?
Trailer brakes operate by detecting how rapidly the trailer slows down and appropriately applying pressure to the braking system. This contributes to better overall stopping power and stability as well as the prevention of damage to either vehicle by more equally distributing the braking force between the tow vehicle and trailer.
Do I Need Trailer Brakes to Tow?
Pulling a trailer without trailer brakes is not advised since the tow vehicle’s braking system may be overworked, and accidents may result. Towing a caravan without working brakes is prohibited in several areas. Before starting a vacation, always check that the braking system on your caravan is in excellent working order.
Conclusion
Ford trucks and SUVs include a “Wiring Fault On Trailer” warning to warn drivers of possible problems with their trailer’s wiring. Consider these warning signals; before towing, check that your caravan is linked and outfitted correctly. According to Ford’s advice for diagnosing and keeping your trailer’s wiring and braking system in good condition, you may avoid any accidents on the road.