Darren Stevens, Technical Sales Engineer for Knorr-Bremse, provides some helpful tips for diagnosing the company’s trailer electronic brake systems.
Knorr-Bremse introduced its first generation of Trailer Electronic Braking Systems (TEBS) in 2001. Known as TEBS 4 ECU, it became a mainstay for trailer manufacturers for the following seven years. After this, the second generation (TEBS G2) was introduced in 2008, followed by the release of TEBS G2.1 and TEBS G2.2 over the next five years.
Here are some useful tips for fleet workshops running Knorr-Bremse TEBS trailer systems:
What happens if your trailer warning lamp is active?
Have you tried another tractor unit? We often find trailer faults caused by bad power supplies. Trying another tractor unit/towing vehicle is an easy way to diagnose simple power issues.
Does your trailer have a TIM (Trailer Information Module) fitted? Usually mounted on the left-hand rear corner of the trailer chassis, the TIM module gives you direct access to the active and stored fault messages in our TEBS ECU.
If your trailer is still covered by the manufacturer’s warranty scheme, the trailer manufacturer should be contacted in the first instance. For older trailers, one of our 80 UK-approved Knorr-Bremse Service Centres can help, details of these can be sourced from our Knorr-Bremse Technical Team.
We can also supply further advise/information on our trailer systems, by phone: 0117 9846222, or via email: technical@knorr-bremse.com.
Knorr-Bremse ECUtalk (PC-based) trailer diagnostics
For further diagnosis of our trailer systems, a special diagnostic software is necessary – Knorr-Bremse ‘ECUtalk for TEBS4 or TEBSG2’, this can be used in conjunction with our Trailer Diagnostic Connection Kit (part number KB915). Trailer diagnosis can be carried out via a suitable laptop. PIN numbers are needed to work on the TEBS systems and to enable the replacement of an ECU with full traceability and safety. These PINs can be purchased via the Knorr-Bremse website. One number is required for TEBS4 and one pin number for TEBSG2. Purchasing the pins entitles the owner to on-site training.
Knorr Bremse ‘ECUtalk’ software downloads and software PIN number applications can be carried out via our website, www.knorr-bremseCVS.com.
Diagnostic developments
As part of its improvements to vehicle safety and productivity, we have launched three systems for use on all types of trailer.
These devices are designed to offer significant operational benefits to fleets both in terms of practicality and reducing costs.
The products are:
1. iTAP (Trailer Access Point)
2. iLVL (Trailer Suspension control)
3. TPMS (Tyre Pressure monitoring)
