TRIMS & FEATURES
2016 RAM 1500 Trailer Wiring & Brake Controller
The 2016 RAM 1500 factory equipment includes trailer wiring provisions, while the integrated trailer-brake controller is equipment-dependent. The controller supports electric and electric-over-hydraulic trailer-brake types with adjustable gain.
Technical information reviewed: 2026-11-06
Confirm the engine, trim, drivetrain, market and installed equipment before using a part number, capacity or repair procedure.
2016 factory integrated trailer-brake controller settings
| Trailer-brake selection | Intended trailer system | Owner check |
|---|---|---|
| Light Electric | Electric trailer brakes | Choose according to trailer manufacturer specifications |
| Heavy Electric | Electric trailer brakes | Check trailer brake capacity and appropriate setting |
| Light EOH | Electric-over-hydraulic trailer brakes | Confirm trailer actuator compatibility |
| Heavy EOH | Electric-over-hydraulic trailer brakes | Confirm trailer actuator compatibility |
| Gain +/- | Adjusts trailer brake output | Test and adjust under safe conditions using factory instructions |
The four factory options and controller location are documented in the 2016 RAM user guide. A controller is not installed on every truck. Trailer wiring may be modified or damaged; do not assume wire colours or pin positions without the exact factory diagram and a tester.
Where the trailer connectors and controller are
The Canadian equipment overview lists 4- and 7-pin trailer wiring for the 2016 RAM lineup. Inspect the actual receiver area and connector housing for installed plugs, corrosion and aftermarket adapters. If fitted, the integrated trailer brake module is in the centre stack below the climate controls; a truck without that switch needs an equipment-specific solution.
Choosing electric or electric-over-hydraulic brakes
The factory controller has Light Electric, Heavy Electric, Light EOH and Heavy EOH options. These are not four generic levels of braking power; the selection should match the actual trailer brake system. The 2016 user guide describes making the choice through the EVIC display or Uconnect settings depending on radio equipment.
What brake gain does
Gain adjusts the controller’s requested trailer-brake output. Too little can leave the truck doing too much braking; too much may cause abrupt trailer braking or wheel lock. Follow the trailer-brake manufacturer and RAM owner instructions for checking and adjustment in safe conditions. Do not treat a generic number from another trailer as correct for yours.
Trailer lights not working: first checks
Test the truck’s lamps with the trailer disconnected, then inspect the connector for bent pins, corrosion, loose grounds and damaged cable near the hitch. Trailer left and right signals and running lamps have separate protected circuits in the 2016 fuse reference. If one function fails only with the trailer attached, examine the trailer harness and ground before replacing truck modules.
When a trailer-brake warning appears
Record the exact warning and whether it appears when connecting a trailer, applying the brake or driving over bumps. Check connector integrity, trailer brake wiring and the selected controller type. A display message alone cannot identify a failed module. Have a qualified trailer-electrical technician test the system before towing a heavy load.
Towing numbers still depend on the truck
A Class IV receiver or a working brake controller does not increase the truck’s rated payload, axle capacity or permitted trailer weight. Read the VIN-specific towing chart, door loading label and hitch limits. Tongue weight reduces remaining payload. Confirm that the trailer brakes, lights, breakaway system and tires are ready before each trip.
Use the correct model-year manual and current service information. Stop if instructions or safety precautions are unclear, and use a qualified technician for work you cannot verify.
References and further reading
- 2016 RAM user guide, integrated trailer brake module and towing
- 2016 RAM Canadian equipment and trailer-harness guide
- 2016 RAM owner manual, trailer towing
This independent guide is not endorsed by the vehicle manufacturer. Let us know if you spot an error.