Troubleshooting Reese Pod Brake Controller Indicator Light Blinking When Brake is Applied
Question:
I have the Reese POD brake controller installed on a 2007 Toyota 4Runner. It is installed correctly, but I have noticed that when the brake pedal is applied, this causes the indicator light to blink periodically. It also seems to blink faster as the adjustment wheel is turned to apply more braking current. The light does NOT blink when the slider control is used to apply the braking current. Ive read about hazard flashers causing a similar problem, but this vehicle has separate amber flashers apart from the brake lights. I checked the signal coming from the brake pedal switch, but its constant, no pulsing from there. Any insight would be appreciated.
asked by: Kristofer M
Expert Reply:
The indicator light on the controller should be green when a trailer is connected to the trailer connector at the rear of the vehicle. When the brakes are applied the light should turn red. If the black wire from the POD is not connected to constant 12 Volt power the indicator light will flicker. The Reese Pod brake controller should be connected as follows.
White - Ground
Black - 12 Volt Constant Power
Red - Cold Side of the Brake Pedal Switch
Blue - Trailer Brake feed to Trailer Brakes
If you are correctly wired and you are still experiencing problems, I would start with the following test. Start by disconnecting the blue brake feed wire near the back of the brake controller. Check the indicator light after this connection is disconnected. If the indicator light then functions normally when the brake is pressed you have a problem on the brake circuit somewhere between the controller and the trailer brakes. If you still have a problem then there is most likely something wrong inside the brake controller itself. Brake controllers have no internal user serviceable parts so it will need to be replaced. I have included a link below to an FAQ article that might help.
George
1/31/2013
Reese POD brake controller installed on 2008 Ranger ..... green light stays on without trailer hitched to vehicle. Is this normal?