A warning message appears on the dashboard while you are driving your Ford F150 with the message, “Trailer Battery Not Charging, See Manual.”
Every time you brake or turn your lights on, the chime and message keeps repeating.
Is there something going on here? There is no need to feel alone. Even when not using their trailer, Ford F150 owners may experience this problem. So what’s the problem?
A trailer battery not charging message will be explained here, as well as the possible causes and how to resolve it. Let’s begin.
What “Trailer Battery Not Charging” Means in a Ford F150
It simply indicates that the battery in your trailer is not receiving any charge due to the message “Trailer Battery Not Charging” on the dashboard.
A faulty brake controller, a faulty battery, or faulty connections can cause this problem, as I mentioned earlier.
The problem could also be caused by a programming error. These possible causes will be explained in detail below.
Reasons why Ford F150 Trailer Batteries Don’t Charge
It is necessary to determine the cause of the Trailer Battery Not Charging issue before addressing it. The annoying message every 5 seconds may be caused by:
Brake controller connections are faulty
A properly connected brake controller and trailer battery will ensure that your trailer battery receives a charge. Starting with the trailer-to-vehicle connector, you want to check it.
Check your wires and connections for loose connections. Check if the problem still persists if your connector is damaged.
You can disrupt the charging process with even the tiniest error. The brake controller connection needs to be good, so make sure that’s working.
Batteries or brake controllers are faulty
Battery degradation may have led to it not being able to charge properly. Make sure the liquid level is right and the voltage levels are good.
To rule out problems with your battery, replace it if you notice any issues.
It may be the brake controller that is faulty if the battery is good. Depending on your warranty, you can have the controller replaced free by your mechanic if it’s still under warranty.
Battery connections are faulty
The Trailer Battery Not Charging message may also be caused by this issue. The connections in the battery need to be examined carefully.
Make sure the terminals and wires are free of corrosion. There is often a problem with the charging process when wires, terminals, and connectors are loose, damaged, or corroded.
Don’t let corrosion build up on the connections. Make sure they’re clean and secure. Baking soda and water can be used to clean corroded terminals.
The trailer module isn’t working
You may also have problems with your trailer module if your trailer battery is not charging.
A certain model of the 2015 Ford F150 truck has been reported to display a message on the dashboard indicating that “Trailer Battery Not Charging” or “Trailer Connected, Trailer Disconnected”.
If you are experiencing the same issue, you may want to consider programming the TRM (Trailer Module) with the most recent calibration data. Make sure your internet connection is stable while reprogramming with IDS version 96.01.
Update the TRM module and the issue will be resolved potentially by reprogramming it.
How to fix Ford F150 trailer battery not charging
Ford F150 ‘trailer battery not charging’ problems can be resolved in four ways:
Make sure no fuses are blown
Before you do anything else, make sure your trailer battery charging system doesn’t have any blow fuses. It’ll be handy if you have your car’s manual. Make sure you put a new fuse in the fuse box if any are blown.
TRM reprogramming
Your dashboard may display the warning message due to issues with the trailer module, as I mentioned above. The issue could be resolved by reprogramming the module.
The version of IDS you have on your programming device should be 96.01 or higher.
When you are programming your vehicle’s modules, you should connect to the internet so you can obtain the latest updates.
Reconnect the cables if necessary
This glitch can be caused by loose wires, faulty connections, or damaged cables. The connections must be secured securely, and there must be no corrosion present on any surface of the device.
You can check the brake controller after inspecting the battery connections. Reconnect the wires and clean the battery terminals.
A damaged or loose wire can lead to a variety of problems that need to be addressed, or the problem may even be resolved.
Battery and brake controller should be checked
The brake controller itself and the battery should also be checked for faults. Make sure your levels are in good condition and that the voltage is correct. A new battery can be used to rule out a possible defective battery. In order to determine the cause of the problem, Ford or your mechanic should inspect the brake controller.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the “Trailer Battery Not Charging” message mean?
The “Trailer Battery Not Charging” message indicates that the truck is not supplying power to the trailer’s battery. This can happen even when the trailer is not connected, often due to issues with the truck’s electrical system or wiring.
Why does this issue occur?
Several factors can cause this issue:
Faulty Wiring: Damaged or corroded wiring in the 7-pin connector can prevent proper electrical connection.
Module Calibration: Some F150 models, particularly from 2015-2016, may require reprogramming of the Trailer Module (TRM) to correct calibration issues that lead to false warnings.
Electrical Short: Water exposure or shorts in the wiring can trigger this warning, especially if the truck has been through a car wash.
What should I do if troubleshooting doesn’t work?
If basic troubleshooting does not resolve the issue:
Visit a Dealer: It may be necessary to take your vehicle to a Ford dealer for diagnostics. They can reprogram the TRM or check for deeper electrical issues.
Check for Software Updates: Ensure your vehicle’s software is up-to-date, as updates might address known issues related to trailer connectivity and battery charging.
Can this issue occur without a trailer connected?
Yes, many owners report receiving this warning even when no trailer is connected. This could indicate an underlying electrical problem within the truck itself rather than an issue with the trailer.
Is there a specific model year more prone to this issue?
The problem has been frequently reported in 2015 and 2016 F150 models, but it can occur in other years as well. Always refer to your vehicle’s manual or consult a dealer for model-specific advice.
