AutoCodes – Generic – C2807

C2807 Code - Trailer Brake Output Circuit Short To Ground

Quick Answer

The braking energy that is provided to the trailer is varied with a Pulse Width Modulated (PWM) signal along the circuit that switches between 0 volt and battery voltage, the higher the duty cycle the more braking power available. Common causes include Faulty Trailer Brake Control (TBC) Module, Trailer Brake Control (TBC) Module harness is open or shorted, Trailer Brake Control (TBC) Module circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: C2807 indicates Trailer Brake Output Circuit Short To Ground.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Trailer Brake Control (TBC) Module, Trailer Brake Control (TBC) Module harness is open or shorted, Trailer Brake Control (TBC) Module circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 2,799

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code C2807 Description

The braking energy that is provided to the trailer is varied with a Pulse Width Modulated (PWM) signal along the circuit that switches between 0 volt and battery voltage, the higher the duty cycle the more braking power available. The Trailer Brake Control (TBC) Module varies the PWM signal based on various inputs such as the brake pressure transducer, TBC module manual slider switch and the TBC module gain buttons. With the vehicle stationary and with the manual slider switch fully to the left with a gain of 10, there should be greater than 10-12 volts supplied to pin 3 of the 7-pin trailer tow connector. Every 4 seconds the TBC module sends a voltage pulse along circuit CAT19 (BU) to pin 3 of the 7-pin trailer tow connector to determine whether or not a trailer is connected.

OBDII Code C2807 - Trailer Brake Output Circuit Short To Ground - AutoCodes.com — C2807 Code - Trailer Brake Output Circuit Short To Ground

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C2807?

Faulty Trailer Brake Control (TBC) Module
Trailer Brake Control (TBC) Module harness is open or shorted
Trailer Brake Control (TBC) Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC C2807?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the C2807 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the C2807 code?

Need more information on how to fix the C2807 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the C2807 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

C2807 Ford — Trailer Brake Output Circuit Short To Ground
C2807 Lincoln — Trailer Brake Output Circuit Short To Ground
C2807 Mercury — Trailer Brake Output Circuit Short To Ground

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about C2807 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code C2807 (Trailer Brake Output Circuit Short To Ground)?

The common symptoms of OBDII code C2807 include malfunctioning trailer brake lights or trailer brakes not functioning properly when connected to the vehicle.

2. What are the potential causes of OBDII code C2807?

The potential causes of OBDII code C2807 include damaged wiring in the trailer brake circuit, a short to ground in the trailer brake output circuit, or a faulty trailer brake controller.

3. How can I diagnose the issue related to OBDII code C2807?

To diagnose the issue related to OBDII code C2807, you can start by visually inspecting the trailer brake wiring for any visible damage or shorts. Using a multimeter, you can test the continuity and resistance of the trailer brake output circuit.

4. Is it safe to continue driving with OBDII code C2807 triggered?

It is not recommended to continue driving with OBDII code C2807 triggered, as it can affect the proper functioning of your trailer brakes, potentially leading to unsafe towing conditions.

5. Can I reset OBDII code C2807 without fixing the underlying issue?

Resetting OBDII code C2807 without fixing the underlying issue will only temporarily clear the code. The issue causing the code will persist, and the code is likely to reappear once the problem is detected again.

6. How can I repair OBDII code C2807 (Trailer Brake Output Circuit Short To Ground)?

To repair OBDII code C2807, you will need to identify and fix the short to ground in the trailer brake output circuit. This may involve repairing or replacing damaged wiring, connectors, or the trailer brake controller.

7. Are there any specific tools required to address OBDII code C2807?

Having a multimeter or continuity tester will be helpful in diagnosing and repairing OBDII code C2807. Additionally, basic hand tools may be needed to access and work on the trailer brake wiring.

8. Can extreme weather conditions contribute to triggering OBDII code C2807?

Extreme weather conditions, such as excessive moisture or road salt exposure, can potentially contribute to triggering OBDII code C2807 by causing corrosion or damage to the trailer brake wiring.

9. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code C2807?

The time required to repair OBDII code C2807 can vary depending on the complexity of the issue and the availability of replacement parts. In general, it may take a few hours to a day to diagnose and fix the problem.

10. Is it possible to prevent OBDII code C2807 from occurring in the future?

Regularly inspecting and maintaining the trailer brake system, including checking the wiring for any signs of damage or wear, can help prevent OBDII code C2807 from occurring in the future.