Trailer Tow Light is Inconsistent
Asked by Traderquinn Jun 27, 2018 at 11:37 AM about the 2004 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 RWD
Question type: Maintenance & Repair
My Chevy Suburban 1500 is a 2004 model with tow
package. I engaged the trailer tow function when I
was pulling a trailer, but now the trailer is not on
but the light comes on and off randomly and is
shifting abnormally as if it thinks the trailer is still
on there. What is the likely culprit problem part?
4 Answers
MGM_Mobile_Electroni... answered 5 years ago
Assuming you have the tow/haul button on the end of your shifter, that could be the culprit. It's pretty common for the tow/haul button to quit working. Try fiddling with the button if the light comes on again.
Traderquinn answered 5 years ago
The tow button is on the end of the shifter. The tow light on the dash seems to come on and off intermittently, and the transmission shifts accordingly depending on which mode is lit up on the dash. Almost like it is trying to decide for itself whether it should be in tow mode or not, regardless what I do with the button.
MGM_Mobile_Electroni... answered 5 years ago
I understand your conditions. I was suggesting the button could be failing. A failing button could short and engage or even just engage because of worn elements. I understand it's turning on regardless of what you do but if you can get it to respond (turn off once it turns on) that would point toward the button being the issue. I don't wan't you thinking i'm talking down to you. I'm just trying to explain the possibility and why it may be happening. I hope you solve your issue.
Traderquinn answered 5 years ago
Thank you for your feedback. I separated the cover on the steering column and discovered very small wires had broken leading into the shifter. When I splice the wires back together, the button and trailer tow light worked great again. I guess it was flashing on and off when the wire ends were shorting out on the column randomly.
