NewHilux.net

G'day all
Bit of a strange issue but I thought I'd bring it up here before it gets to the auto electrician.
I've got a 2017 hilux with a redarc towpro trailer brake controller. Recently I've noticed that the van brake lights are constantly on. The electric brakes on the van are working properly as I can adjust the braking power via the brake controller.
There is constant 12V on the car end of the trailer plug pin that is for the trailer stop light.
Has anyone had this issue before?
TIA
Silverfox

Have you checked the Breakaway emergency pin? This will put the brakes on.
The 12v on the brake light in the plug/ socket appears to be a problem with the brake controller. Is there a light on the controller?
Are the brake lights on the vehicle on?

G'day gypsy
It doesn't have a breakaway system.
Brake lights on the car are off.
Brake controller works the vans breaks correctly when towing.
Thinking either there's a fault in the redarc controller or its wiring somewhere.
Silverfox

Hi silverfox
Who installed the unit.

Yes it does look like a controller or wiring problem

Is the brake wired to the out side of the
brake pedal switch make sure it is not on
the cruise control side

G'day all
I've just fixed this issue.
Gipsy, you were very close with the fix. There are two relays in the toyota towing wiring loom, situated near the spare tyre. One of these was full of water & corroded in the "closed" position. A quick trip to supercheap for a new one & it's all good now.
Only problem I had with the fix was having my face directly under the relay & it's housing when I opened it up & getting a face full of rusty water!!
Thanks all for your help.
Silverfox

Ouch, lesson learned, don't get under the spot you're working on.
Glad you found the problem, many others could be faced with this. I did do some syllogistic reasoning and all I could come up with was the wiring loom.
Did you work out why it was full of water? Taken the Hilux for a swim lately?

Did a pretty deep water crossing near Nelligen about 6 months ago, ironically on the way to shallow crossing.
Tossing up on wether to drill a small drain hole in the protective cover. At least the water can then get out.
Silverfox

Good idea nice country up there around nelligen, I spent time rallying in that area throughout the 70s.