If you’re planning to tow a trailer with your 2015 Chevy Colorado, you’ll need to have the right wiring setup in place. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the 2015 Chevy Colorado trailer wiring diagram, including how to install it and common troubleshooting tips. Let’s get started!
What is Trailer Wiring?
Trailer wiring is a system that connects your trailer’s electrical system to your vehicle’s electrical system. It allows you to power the trailer’s lights, brakes, and turn signals, making it safe and legal to tow the trailer on the road.
When it comes to the 2015 Chevy Colorado, you have a couple of options for trailer wiring. You can use a factory-installed wiring harness, or you can install an aftermarket wiring harness. The wiring diagram will differ slightly depending on which option you choose, so make sure you have the right diagram for your situation.
Factory-Installed Wiring Harness
If your 2015 Chevy Colorado came with a factory-installed wiring harness, you’re in luck. This means that the wiring is already in place, and all you need to do is connect your trailer to the harness using a connector.
The factory-installed wiring harness will typically have four or seven pins, depending on your trailer’s electrical system. Four pins are sufficient for most trailers, while seven pins are required for trailers with more complex systems, such as those with electric brakes.
Here’s a simple diagram of how the pins on the connector correspond to the various lights and brakes on your trailer:
| Pin | Function |
|---|---|
| 1 | Left turn signal |
| 2 | Reverse lights |
| 3 | Ground |
| 4 | Right turn signal |
| 5 | Electric brake output (if equipped) |
| 6 | Auxiliary power (if equipped) |
| 7 | Tail lights |
Once you’ve connected your trailer to the wiring harness, you should test all of the lights and brakes to make sure they’re working properly. If you run into any issues, refer to the troubleshooting section below.
Aftermarket Wiring Harness
If your 2015 Chevy Colorado doesn’t have a factory-installed wiring harness, you’ll need to install an aftermarket harness. This is a bit more involved than simply connecting a connector to an existing harness, but it’s still a relatively straightforward process.
To install an aftermarket wiring harness, you’ll need to follow these basic steps:
- Remove the tail lights from your vehicle
- Run the wiring harness from the front of the vehicle to the tail lights
- Connect the harness to the tail lights using T-taps or soldering
- Connect the harness to your trailer using a connector
As with the factory-installed harness, you should test all of the lights and brakes to make sure they’re working properly after installation. Refer to the troubleshooting section below if you run into any issues.
Common Trailer Wiring Troubleshooting Tips
Even with the best wiring setup in place, you may still run into issues with your trailer’s electrical system. Here are some common troubleshooting tips to help you diagnose and fix these issues:
No Trailer Lights
If your trailer’s lights aren’t working at all, the first thing to check is the wiring connections. Make sure that the trailer is correctly connected to the wiring harness or connector, and that all of the connections are secure.
If the connections are good, you should also check the fuses and relays in your vehicle’s electrical system. A blown fuse or faulty relay can prevent power from reaching the trailer’s lights.
Intermittent Lights
If your trailer’s lights work sometimes but not others, the issue is likely a loose or corroded connection somewhere in the wiring system. Check all of the connections and clean them with electrical contact cleaner if necessary.
Dim Lights
If your trailer’s lights are noticeably dimmer than normal, the issue may be a weak ground connection. Make sure that the trailer’s ground wire is securely connected to a clean, bare metal surface on the vehicle.
No Brake Lights
If your trailer has electric brakes and the brake lights aren’t working, the issue is likely a faulty brake controller or a problem with the wiring between the controller and the trailer. Check the wiring connections and make sure that the brake controller is functioning properly.
Conclusion
With a good trailer wiring setup in place, you’ll be able to safely and legally tow a trailer with your 2015 Chevy Colorado. Whether you’re using a factory-installed harness or an aftermarket harness, make sure you follow the wiring diagram carefully and test all of the lights and brakes before hitting the road.
If you run into any issues with your trailer’s electrical system, refer to the troubleshooting tips above or consult with a qualified mechanic. With the right wiring setup and a little bit of know-how, you’ll be able to enjoy all the benefits of towing with your Chevy Colorado.
