Random "Trailer Disconnected" Message

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Mar 30, 2026 | 07:16 PM

#16

Phillbo

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Turns out there is a recall notice on the trailer control module. But as of now no fix for my model year.

Mar 30, 2026 | 11:07 PM

#17

CathedralCub

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Quote:

Originally Posted by Phillbo

Turns out there is a recall notice on the trailer control module. But as of now no fix for my model year.

Lovely.

Maybe they'll see this thread, and my suggestion, and get it fixed quickly.

Last edited by CathedralCub; Mar 30, 2026 at 11:08 PM. Reason: Changed link so that if someone clicks it, they'll end up at this post

Mar 31, 2026 | 02:20 PM

#18

Phillbo

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Quote:

Originally Posted by 99powerstrokedF250

On these trucks, it is relatively well-documented that a couple connections under the truck are not always as water-tight as they should be, and that pulling them apart, cleaning them, and applying some dielectric grease usually fixes the problem unless it is more serious. It is a good place to start, at least, to cover the 'common' problems, especially when they're relatively cheap/free with the exception of your time.

Do you mind sharing which connections would need attention?

Mar 31, 2026 | 08:18 PM

#19

4by4ord

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Does your trailer have disc brakes? If so, I think the problem is with the Ford brake module not being completely compatible with your trailer. Try changing your brake control from electric over hydraulic to electric and see if that fixes your issue. I don't think there is any significant advantage to using the electric over hydraulic setting for hydraulic disc brakes anyway. I don't think you even have to be moving to cause the error .... with the truck and trailer hooked up and the brake control set to electric over hydraulic, simply step on the brake momentarily then release for a couple seconds and repress.

Mar 31, 2026 | 08:47 PM

#20

Phillbo

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Drum brakes... I've never seen a method for setting the brake controller....
it's a known issue with the TCM ... Just no fix for my model year yet. 23+ has a fix.

Apr 2, 2026 | 07:13 AM

#21

4by4ord

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Quote:

Originally Posted by Phillbo

Drum brakes... I've never seen a method for setting the brake controller....
it's a known issue with the TCM ... Just no fix for my model year yet. 23+ has a fix.

My ‘22 only displayed the message when I was hooked up to a trailer and the trailer brake control was set to electric over hydraulic.

My ‘23 needs to go in for the recall. The message seems to pop up on it regardless of towing or not …. It seems to be related to how dirty the truck is. I’m wondering if on the ‘23s if it’s a ground fault detected from salt and slop around the trailer plug. I wash my truck once in a while and it seems to temporarily fix the issue.