Trailer wiring is one of the most important aspects of towing. It is crucial that you understand how to wire your trailer lights so that they work properly when towing. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on the 6 wire trailer light wiring diagram. We will go through each wire and provide a detailed explanation of its use, as well as offer tips on how to troubleshoot any issues that may arise. So, let’s get started!
Understanding the 6 Wires in a Trailer Light Wiring Diagram
The 6 wires in a trailer light wiring diagram are typically color-coded for easy identification. These wires are:
| Wire Color | Function |
|---|---|
| Brown | Taillights |
| Green | Right Turn Signal/Brake Light |
| Yellow | Left Turn Signal/Brake Light |
| White | Ground |
| Blue | Electric Brakes |
| Red or Black | Battery Charge or Breakaway Kit |
It’s important to note that not all trailers use the same wire colors for each function. Before starting any wiring project, consult your trailer’s owner’s manual or consult with a professional.
Brown Wire – Taillights
The brown wire is responsible for powering the taillights on your trailer. These lights are typically located at the rear of the trailer and illuminate when the headlights on the towing vehicle are turned on. To connect the brown wire, simply connect it to the taillight wire on your towing vehicle’s wiring harness.
Tip: If your trailer has LED taillights, be sure to use a heavy-duty flasher relay designed for LED lights to avoid any issues with flickering or flashing.
Green Wire – Right Turn Signal/Brake Light
The green wire is used to power the right turn signal and brake light on your trailer. When you activate the right turn signal or apply the brakes on your towing vehicle, the green wire sends power to the corresponding light on the trailer. To connect the green wire, simply connect it to the right turn signal wire on your towing vehicle’s wiring harness.
Tip: If you’re experiencing issues with your trailer’s right turn signal or brake light not working, check the wiring connections and make sure the bulb is properly seated in the socket.
Yellow Wire – Left Turn Signal/Brake Light
The yellow wire performs the same function as the green wire, but for the left turn signal and brake light on your trailer. When you activate the left turn signal or apply the brakes on your towing vehicle, the yellow wire sends power to the corresponding light on the trailer. To connect the yellow wire, simply connect it to the left turn signal wire on your towing vehicle’s wiring harness.
Tip: If both your right and left turn signals are not working on your trailer, it may be a grounding issue. Start by checking the white wire (ground wire) connection.
White Wire – Ground
The white wire is the ground wire and is used to complete the circuit for all the lights on the trailer. It is essential that the white wire be connected to a good ground to ensure proper function of all trailer lights. The white wire can be connected to any metal surface on the trailer frame, provided it is free of rust or paint. To connect the white wire, simply connect it to the ground wire on your towing vehicle’s wiring harness.
Tip: If you’re experiencing issues with all your trailer lights not working, check the ground wire connection first.
Blue Wire – Electric Brakes
The blue wire is used to power the electric brakes on your trailer when you apply the brakes on your towing vehicle. Not all trailers have electric brakes, so if your trailer does not have them, this wire will not be used. To connect the blue wire, simply connect it to the electric brake wire on your towing vehicle’s wiring harness.
Tip: If your trailer’s electric brakes are not working, check the wiring connections and make sure the brake controller is properly calibrated.
Red or Black Wire – Battery Charge or Breakaway Kit
The red or black wire is used to power the battery charge circuit or breakaway kit on your trailer. Not all trailers have a battery charge circuit or breakaway kit, so if your trailer does not have them, this wire will not be used. To connect the red or black wire, simply connect it to the corresponding wire on your towing vehicle’s wiring harness.
Tip: If your trailer’s battery is not charging or your breakaway kit is not working, check the wiring connections and make sure the battery is properly connected.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trailer Light Wiring Diagrams
Q: What size wire should I use for my trailer lights?
A: The wire size for your trailer lights should be at least 16 gauge. If you’re using long runs of wire, consider using a larger wire size to avoid voltage drop.
Q: What kind of connectors should I use for my trailer lights?
A: There are a variety of connectors available for trailer lights, including spade connectors, butt connectors, and ring terminals. Choose a connector that is appropriate for your wiring setup and ensure it is properly crimped or soldered.
Q: Why are my trailer lights flickering?
A: Trailer lights may flicker due to a number of issues, including a loose ground connection, a bad bulb, or a faulty wiring connection. Start by checking the ground connection and wiring connections before replacing any bulbs.
Q: How can I troubleshoot my trailer lights?
A: If your trailer lights are not functioning properly, start by checking the wiring connections and ensuring the bulbs are properly seated in the sockets. If the issue persists, use a multimeter to test the voltage at each wire connection.
Q: Do I need a special relay for LED trailer lights?
A: Yes, if your trailer has LED lights, you will need a heavy-duty flasher relay designed for LED lights to avoid any issues with flickering or flashing.
Q: How do I know if my trailer’s electric brakes are working properly?
A: To test your trailer’s electric brakes, apply the brakes on your towing vehicle while towing the trailer. You should feel the trailer brake engage and slow down the trailer. Adjust the brake controller settings as necessary to ensure proper function.
Conclusion
Understanding the 6 wire trailer light wiring diagram is essential for safe towing. Be sure to consult your trailer’s owner’s manual or consult with a professional before beginning any wiring project. By following the tips and troubleshooting advice provided in this article, you can ensure your trailer lights are functioning properly and enjoy a safe towing experience.
