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RV Electronics

Last updated on: December 9, 2021

The 12 Best Trailer Brake Controllers To Buy in 2022

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by Chris Coleman

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If you need to tow a heavy trailer with your truck or SUV, then there are a number of devices and accessories you must equip for your towing setup for safe towing on public roads. Among them, an absolutely crucial towing device is a trailer brake controller. Its role is to automatically apply the brakes in your trailer, so that both the trailer and the tow vehicle slow down or stop on their own at the appropriate rates for optimal stopping performance, especially in emergency situations or in inclement weather and bad road conditions. It is an essential part of your towing arsenal. Having the best trailer brake controller installed is crucial to the safety of your vehicles, you and all passengers onboard.

While the general working mechanisms of the different types of trailer brake controllers are easy to understand, how to select the best trailer brake controller for different towing tasks based on a number of technical criteria as well as how to install and set up the unit for optimal braking performance might be more complicated. But worry not, as you have all the crucial information you need to make an informed buying decision. 

In addition to our handpicked list of the best trailer brake controllers on the market with in-depth reviews, you will learn how these devices work, why you must have them installed, the types of controllers, important buying criteria, step-by-step instructions on installation, mounting and adjusting the settings of the brake controller for proper operation, a list of prestigious manufacturers and answers to frequently asked questions regarding trailer brake controller and trailer electric brakes.

Comparison Chart of Best Trailer Brake Controllers

What is a trailer brake controller, how does a trailer brake controller work, benefits of trailer brake controllers, types of trailer brake controllers , 1. tekonsha 90195 p3 electronic brake control – best of the best , 2. tekonsha 90160 electronic brake control – editor’s choice , 3. curt 51110 electric trailer brake controller – editor’s choice, 4. reese towpower 8508211 brake control, 5. reese towpower 74377 pod brake control, 6. reese 74642 compact brake control, 7. draw-tite 20191 i-stop iq electronic brake control, 8. curt 51140 triflex electric trailer brake controller, 9. hopkins 47297 insight brake control, 10. hayes 81760 engage digital time based brake controller, 11. tekonsha 9030 voyager electronic brake control, 12. tekonsha 90885 electronic brake control, electric vs. hydraulic braking, number of axles , built-in monitor for monitoring your system, tire safety, top brands of trailer brake controllers, installation and mounting, adjusting the settings of a trailer brake controller, how to set up a trailer brake controller: step by step, testing a trailer brake controller , 1. does a camper need a trailer brake controller, 2. can you tow a trailer with electric brakes without a controller, 3. which is better: a timed or a proportional brake controller, 4. how much does a trailer brake controller cost, 5. what is the average cost to install a brake controller , 6. how long would a brake controller for trailers last, 7. what is the best setting for a trailer brake controller, 8. how do you reset a trailer brake controller, 9. how do i calibrate a trailer brake controller, 10. why does my trailer brake controller stay on, 11. how do you turn off a trailer brake controller, 12. how do i tell if the brake controller is bad, 13. how do you test a trailer brake controller, 14. does a brake controller know if a trailer is connected, 15. how do i know if my electric trailer brakes are working , trailer brake controller basics.

Electric Brakes on Your Trailer

Travel trailers and fifth-wheels are typically equipped with electric brakes installed on tandem axle models. Another type of braking system more commonly installed on luxury trailers is the electric over hydraulic braking system.

When you press on the brake pedal in your towing truck, electric current is sent from the tow vehicle back to each wheel assembly in the trailer through an electromagnet. The electromagnetic forces the trailer brake pads to press onto the trailer’s brake drums, and the generated friction between these two parts is what slows down your trailer or brings it to a full stop. 

But why do you need to know this? Because when your trailer has an electric or  electric over hydraulic braking system, you won’t be able to operate your trailer brakes without installing a brake controller first, which is mounted in your tow vehicle. This is also likely required by law in your state to ensure safe towing operations.

Trailer Brake Controllers

Brake controllers for trailers are devices purposely engineered for trailers that incorporate electric braking or electric over hydraulic (EOH) braking systems. Thus these controllers are also called electric trailer brake controllers. 

When you are towing a heavy, fully loaded trailer, effective stopping is a much more tricky task compared to having to stop your towing truck only. Without the brake controller in place, you will need to add extra pressure on your towing vehicle’s brakes in order to account for the extra load in your trailer. So in a towing setup, the tow vehicle’s brakes will do most of the job, which means premature wear and tear to the brakes and costly repairs. This is where an electric brake controller comes into play.

Put simply, the brake controller connect your trailer’s brakes to the main brakes in your towing vehicle so that you can control the trailer’s brakes with the tow vehicle’s brakes. So both vehicles in the towing setup slow down on their own at the appropriate rates, instead of either one of the two having to be responsible for most of the stopping forces, which can be dangerous in emergency situations or in bad roads and/or bad weather conditions. And what you get is safer, better stopping performance, especially in the case of an emergency.

In use, the brake controllers of trailers continuously monitor the braking system of towing vehicles. They detect the amount of force you apply on the brake pedal in your tow vehicle, then automatically engage the brakes on your trailer accordingly to let the trailer slow down on its own. 

The brake controller does this by sending electricity to the trailer brakes through the trailer plug. To control how varied the braking on the trailer is, the brake controller will increase or decrease the voltage supplied to the trailer brakes. The higher the voltage, the more power the brakes will use, and the harder they will stop the trailer. 

Also, you’ll need to set up your controller after installation. The brake controller setting will dictate how much braking power will be transferred by the brake pedal and applied to the brakes on the trailer for safe, effective braking performance. 

What all these mean is that the trailer is not relying on the tow vehicle to stop, thus you end up needing to apply less force to your tow vehicle’s brakes. This decreases your stopping distance, puts less wear and tear on your tow vehicle’s brakes, as well as creating a smoother and safer braking all round.

A digital brake controller can be set to automatically override the existing setting, giving you maximum braking power in the event of an emergency. Most brake controllers will also have a finger trigger that allows you to activate the brakes with the pull of a lever. This is how you test the brakes to make sure they are working when you first drive away. 

Who is it for?

When you look at the three-digit price tag of the best trailer brake controllers on the market, you might be tempted to hit the road without it. However, if your trailer has electric brakes or an electric over hydraulic system, they will not work without a brake controller. If your trailer is equipped with electric brakes, you will always need to install a brake controller before beginning any towing task. 

Do note that the opposite is also true. A trailer brake controller will not work with older-style trailers that don’t have electronic control. The device only operates on a trailer with electric or electric-over-hydraulic brakes.

Many new trucks and vehicles that are designed to tow heavy trailers come with factory-installed brake controllers, so you won’t need to install one. Otherwise, if your truck does not have a built-in controller, you will need to have one installed before hitting the road.  

As a general rule, for safe towing, you should have a trailer brake controller installed if you need to tow any load exceeding 1,650 pounds or 750 kg. 

Although not mandatory under the law everywhere, an increasing number of US states are requiring the installation of trailer brake controllers. Due to the necessity of a controller in heavy towing tasks, most states in the United States require by law that you have a brake controller installed if your trailer weighs over 3,000 pounds when fully loaded or the trailer gross weight exceeds 40% of the tow vehicle’s gross weight. 

Since it’s more likely than not that except for the tiny teardrop trailers and the smallest travel trailer models, most fifth wheels and travel trailers you’d be towing usually double to triple the weight of the towing truck, so having a trailer brake controller installed is an absolute must.  

Safety : Losing control of ladened trailers in busy traffic is dangerous and may prove fatal. By outfitting your rig with an electric trailer brake controller , you could avoid various accidents in which the trailers move independently with the towing vehicles.

Save money on repairs to the braking system : Without a brake controller for trailers around, you must rely solely on towing vehicles to provide the necessary braking force for the entire setup. That is going to put significant wear and tear on the braking system of your tow vehicle over time, particularly the brake pads, which means trips to the repair shop and cumbersome repairs to keep your tow vehicle in working order. It also means less safety while towing, since prematurely worn brake pads would cause brake fade. 

Value for money: Compared to amounts of money that go into repairing trailers after traffic accidents and swapping damaged braking systems, a trailer brake controller costs little. Hence, in the case that you like to save some bucks in the long run, you should consider investing in a brake controller for trailers. 

Ability to monitor your towing setup: The best trailer brake controllers will typically come with a user-friendly LED display. It will  feature advanced diagnostics that allow you to monitor the whole towing setup while you’re driving, including updates on the trailer braking and cargo.

Numerous brake controllers exist but models on today’s market could be split into two types: time-delayed and proportional.

They are very different, but there are a few similarities. Firstly, the wiring for installation is identical. Secondly, you can adjust the maximum braking power depending on the trailer gross weight. Also, both types of trailer brake controllers allow you to manually override trailer brakes’ signal. 

Time-Delayed Brake Controllers

As the name indicates, time-delayed brake controllers have a delay between the depressing of brake pedals in towing vehicles and the activation of trailer brakes. Depending on the requirement, it’s possible to change the delay of models of the type in the sync setting. Thanks to the simplicity of their design, time-delayed brake controllers boast quick installation processes. That said, they are more complicated to set-up and configure after installing, and cause more wear-and-tear to the tow vehicle’s brakes due to the single pressure setting.

Proportional Brake Controllers

Packing built-in inertia-based sensors, proportional brake controllers consistently supervise the speed of your rig on the road, sense the intensity of the tow vehicle’s deceleration and apply the right amount of force to the trailer brakes to match. The end goal is to enable the tow vehicle and the trailer to slow down at the same rate and bring your towing setups to a smooth stop. 

This working mechanism means that compared to the simple time-delayed brake controller, a proportional controller provides a more progressive, gradual braking performance and under abrupt, heavy braking situations, it would provide you more safety. They also ensure even wear between your trailer brakes and tow vehicle brakes. For this reason, the best proportional brake controller on the market are often reviewed by campers and experts alike as the best electric brake controller models for the money. They are more expensive, but justifiably so.

That said, the best brake controller for the money should be the one most suitable for your towing needs. If you often perform towing for your job, a proportional controller would definitely be the better choice and it will be worth your investment. On the other hand, if you only tow every now and then, a time-delayed brake controller should be adequate.

Best Trailer Brake Controller Reviews & Recommendation

Without further ado, let’s dive into our delicious handpicked list of the trailer brake controller

Models on the market today, including both of the proportional and time-delayed types.  They are all user-friendly, functional and durable brake controllers for trailers based on their well-rounded specifications and features, as well as brake controller reviews by buyers and experts.

Each comes with an in-depth review that explains what sets them apart, so that you can easily compare among models and pick out the one that best suit your towing needs.

Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake Control , silver, Single

Why This Is The Best:

Possessing a small build, Tekonsha 90195 occupies negligible amounts of space on the dashboard of towing vehicles in use. In addition to that, the Tekonsha brake controller is designed with a quick disconnect feature so people may swiftly remove it when the need arises. As a result, Tekonsha 90195 electronic brake control tends to be prized by those that like to have an organized and non-clustered dashboard. It’s worth pointing out that Tekonsha 90195 is transferable between automobiles which leads to terrific flexibility in towing operations.

With an easy-to-read display, Tekonsha 90195 lets users manage the trailer brakes and associated systems in a convenient manner. Depending on individual liking, the brightness, contrast and language of the display of the brake controller from Tekonsha could also be changed in no time. Hence, adapting Tekonsha 90195 to particular demands is a walk in the park and there is no need for mechanics. Besides that, this brake controller is able to handle up to four axles at the same time so it’s a wonderful match for typical towing setups. 

One interesting thing about Tekonsha 90195 is that it carries a rotary manual override lever that applies the brakes of your trailers one pushed. The taillights of your trailers would light up as you push level too to warn people that travel behind you. In the case that you value traffic safety, Tekonsha 90195 is the best trailer brake controller on the market for you. 

  • Space-saving 
  • Dependable and reliable 
  • A bit pricey 
  • Buttons of some units get stuck now and then 

Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control

Why It’s An Editor’s Choice:

Engineered to be a plug-and-play model, Tekonsha Primus IQ 90160 could be put to use as soon as it’s out of the packaging. Upon purchase, Tekonsha 90160 is accompanied by snap-in dash mounting so securing it to the dashboard is a cakewalk. Thus, the brake controller made by Tekonsha is the best trailer brake controlle r for people that lack the patience for models with drag-out installations. Moreover, since Tekonsha 90160 incorporates a boost feature, it’s capable of applying extra braking power for heavy trailers. 

In the course of operation, the brake controller from Tekonsha frequently runs self-diagnostics to detect signs of potential problems. The moment it notices something odd, Tekonsha 90160 is going to send warnings to the users via its LED display. Because of that, with Tekonsha 90160 onboard, you should have no trouble supervising the brakes of your towing setup. The brake controller of Tekonsha works proportionally as well so it’s compatible with a wide range of arrangements nowadays. 

As proof of confidence, Tekonsha willingly offers everyone that buys its brake controller a lifetime warranty that covers manufacturing defects. Naturally, Tekonsha 90160 receives a shower of praise for its tip-top post-purchase support. 

  • Long-lasting 
  • Slim and sleek 
  • Intuitive installation 
  • Quality control could use some work 
  • Users complain about short wires 

CURT 51110 Venturer Electric Trailer Brake Controller, Time-Delay, Black

Adaptable and versatile, 51110 of Curt could provide excellent control over the brakes of towing setups in an assortment of conditions. Boasting customizable output, the brake controller from Curt allows people to modify braking force at any time without much difficulty. Also, through the sync setting of 51110, it’s possible to determine how aggressive the brakes of trailers kick into action which is a big plus. Needless to say, Curt 51110 is held in high esteem by those that want to have optimal breaking in towing operations. 

Being created with automatic leveling, 51110 needs no tuning during installation so the setup process rarely takes long to wrap up. Since the brake controller made by Curt packs splendid compatibility, it operates well alongside cruise control, anti-lock brakes, PWM systems and alike too. That is why adding 51110 of Curt to the average rigs is essentially a piece of cake. Lastly, the absence of internal moving parts means 51110 would run reliably for years and that makes it the best trailer brake controller for routine towing. 

In terms of interface, 51110 of Curt integrates a flush LED display that keeps users up-to-date about trailer brakes. By grabbing the Curt brake controller, you could check up on the brakes of your trailers with a glance and quickly respond to unexpected developments. 

  • Inexpensive 
  • Light and compact 
  • Setup process is child’s play 
  • Sensitivity is kind of high 
  • Reports of units arriving used appear occasionally 

No products found.

Why We Love It:

So you need a brake controller that could manage multiple brakes at the same time? In that case, there is a good chance that you would come to like Reese 8508211. With the ability to simultaneously handle between one and four axles, 8508211 permits you to manage from two to eight brakes. Furthermore, the brake controller made by Reese is assembled with a built-in diagnostics feature so when things seem wrong, you should be immediately informed. 

Similar to its contemporaries, Reese 8508211 is equipped with a boost function that delivers more initial braking in times of need. As a result, the brake controller from Reese works like a charm whether you tow light or heavy-loaded trailers. About installation, 8508211 is a plug-in model that requires moments to set up and the inclusion of user-friendly push-button control facilitates the programming. With reverse battery protection, Reese 8508211 remains uncompromised even if you happen to mess up the polarity as you install it. 

As it comes to the market at a reasonable price, the brake controller of Reese suits plenty of shopping budgets. For those who have rather tight wallets but still wish to get something decent, 8508211 is the best trailer brake controller . 

  • Simple to install 
  • Fantastic flexibility 
  • Tech support still leaves something to be desired 
  • A number of units reach the users in an inoperable state 

Reese Towpower 74377 Pod Brake control, Black

Being a proportional model that could bring towing setups to a smooth stop on the road, Reese 74377 earns numerous compliments from trailer brake controller reviews . With an up-front user interface, the brake controller from Reese lets people access the control no matter the orientation. Additionally, 74377 possesses a powered LED light indicator so users should be able to tell whether it’s up and running. Hence, once it comes to convenience, 74377 of Reese is the best electric brake controller available for purchase on the market. 

Purposely made to withstand a diversity of abuses, 74377 could take on virtually everything that you throw at it in use. That is why if you pick up the brake controller made by Reese, it’s going to be a while before you need a replacement. On arrival, Reese 74377 also comes with installation hardware so its setup process only lasts a couple of minutes and you don’t need specialized tools. When 74377 is positioned and secured in the towing vehicles, it would manage up to four axles which equal eight brakes.

To reassure users, Reese backs its trailer brake controller with a five-year manufacturer warranty. If your 74377 fail due to defects within the warranty period, you may claim yourself a replacement free of charge, 

  • Low-priced 
  • Installation is no-nonsense 
  • Missing hardware is noted 
  • Users detect sporadic interruptions in several units 

Reese Towpower (74642) Brakeman Timed Compact Brake Control

Put together with an emphasis on utility, Reese 74642 is capable of meeting the demands of a lot of towing operations. Containing no moving part on the inside, the reliability of 74642 is superior to that of ordinary brake controllers for trailers. Moreover, the brake controller of Reese could even level on its own so there is no need for manual leveling. Because of that, Reese 74642 is popular among those that have a schedule to keep and lack the time to fine-tune brake controllers to perfection.

The brake controller of Reese is a plug-and-play model, therefore, its setup process is both uncomplicated and brief. After the installation finishes, it’s possible for owners of 74642 to begin adjusting the braking force via the slide adjustment. In the course of operation, Reese 74642 fluidly handles two axles at the same time and that allows people to manipulate up to four brakes simultaneously. Finally, if you have other systems set up on your trailers, it’s noteworthy that the  Reese brake controller is compatible with anti-lock braking.

Since 74642 of Reese is inexpensive, squeezing it into the spending plan is child’s play. About post-purchase support, the brake controller made by Reese is backed with a five-year manufacturer warranty that brings much-needed peace of mind.  

  • Reasonable price 
  • Endurance is top-notch 
  • Shipping is less than ideal 
  • People complain about receiving dead units 

Draw-Tite 20191 I-Stop IQ Electronic Brake Control , Silver

Loaded with features and functions, Draw-Tite I-Stop (20191) could be adapted to countless setups. Thanks to the self-diagnostics, owners of the brake trailer made by Draw-Tite would immediately receive notifications when issues occur out of the blue. The presence of a flush display on I-Stop (20191) makes it a breeze to check up on readings as well. That is why Draw-Tite I-Stop (20191) is prized by those who hit the road year-round and have to deal with variable lighting conditions.  

Packing a combination of removable electrical connectors and snap-in mounting, I-Stop (20191) proves to be a cinch to install and remove at short notice. Hence, many people that want to create a versatile dashboard layout regard the Draw-Tite brake trailer as the best brake controller for the money . While I-Stop (20191) of Draw-Tite appears kind of expensive compared to market models, its values justify its price tag. If you buy I-Stop (20191), Draw-Tite is going to provide you with a lifetime manufacturer warranty which speaks volumes. 

About maintenance, Draw-Tite I-Stop (20191) needs insignificant attention from users throughout its entire lifespan. If you like to reduce the amounts of time that go to the maintenance of towing accessories then I-Stop (20191) is exactly what you need. 

  • Accurate readings 
  • Impressive handling 
  • Uncomplicated maintenance 
  • Steep price 
  • Braking power deviate from time to time 

CURT 51140 TriFlex Electric Trailer Brake Controller, Proportional

Carrying a modern-day design that is built to last, CURT 51140 never fails to please in the course of operation. With an advanced triple-axis accelerometer, 51140 consistently detects motion on three planes and delivers necessary braking power for smooth stopping. Furthermore, featuring optional levels of sensitivity, the CURT brake controller permits users to apply adjustment based on loads, road conditions,… As a result, with 51140 of CURT, people could take part in a wide range of towing operations with relative ease. 

Assembled with automatic leveling and calibration, the brake controller made by CURT eliminates the hassle of fine-tuning so the setup process is fairly swift. The LED display of 51140 shows power changes in precise increments too, thus, adapting it to specific arrangements is no sweat. About pairing, CURT 51140 is compatible with anti-brake, cruise control, ABS, PWM and so on. Therefore, you should have an easy time matching the brake controller of CURT to systems you have on your rig. 

For protection, 51140 of CURT is well-secured against reverse-polarity as well as short-circuit. Unsurprisingly, those that like to travel with confidence and care about safety consider the CURT brake controller as the best brake controller for travel trailer . 

  • Terrific safety 
  • Quick installation 
  • Outstanding customizability 
  • Battery drain is kind of high 
  • A couple of units come with unresponsive controls

Hopkins Towing Solutions 47297 INSIGHT Plug-in Simple Brake Control , Black

Despite its plain appearance, Hopkins InSIGHT (47297) is still able to meet the expectations of its users in lots of situations. Consisting of separate components, the brake controller of Hopkins could be mounted virtually anywhere that people want in towing vehicles. That is why the odds of InSIGHT (47297) getting into the way during the average towing operations tend to be low. Also, the installation of Hopkins InSIGHT (47297) involves neither tool nor drilling which means installation is a walk in the park.

Owing to the digital display, InSIGHT (47297) makes managing the brakes of trailers on the road around the clock a snap. A vertical manual slide is present too and that helps people engage all the trailer brakes in case of emergency. Hence, with the brake controller from Hopkins, bringing towing setups to a stop is going to be child’s play. Besides that, since InSIGHT (47297) is capable of controlling four axles with eight brakes at once, it works superbly in an assortment of today’s arrangements.

As for affordability, InSIGHT (47297) of Hopkins comes at a price that people could accept so its purchase would have trifling impacts on your upcoming spendings. On arrival, the brake controller made by Hopkins is backed with a lifetime warranty so you have something to count on when things go south. 

  • Lightweight
  • Second to none adaptability 
  • Quality control should be overhauled 
  • People report oscillations in braking power 

Hayes 81760 Engage Digital Time Based Brake Controller, Black

Functional and practical, Hayes 81760 often gives a good account of itself in towing operations while requiring minimal care from users. Engineered with an intuitive display that shows current, voltage and percent of power, 81760 allows people to maintain control over their towing setup at any time. Moreover, possessing innovative troubleshooting, the brake controller made by Hayes significantly facilitates the process of detecting and addressing operational problems. Because of that, Hayes 81760 is well-received by those that place convenience above all else. 

Equipped with time-based circuitry, the brake controller from Hayes provides increasing current to trailer brakes as time passes by. Thus, the longer you depress the brake pedal with 81760 installed on your rig, the more braking power you would get for your entire towing setups. For installation, 81760 of Hayes is made to mount in any direction and at any angle. Naturally, the brake controller of Hayes is well-suited for towing vehicles that happen to come with somewhat steep dashboards. 

Normally, Hayes 81760 manages the brakes of trailers on its own based on the preset parameters that users could readily adjust. However, in times of need, owners of 81760 have the option of applying trailer brakes by themselves via the manual lever. Upon the activation of manual lever, the stoplights of towing vehicles as well as towed trailers should start to illuminate. 

  • Bright display 
  • Easy to set up 
  • Mediocre delivery service 
  • Connector is not universally compatible 

Tekonsha 9030 Voyager Electronic Brake Control , Black

Created with advanced electronics, Voyager (9030) of Tekonsha excels at minimizing false braking on the road which provides a fluid experience. When people hit the brake pedal, the LED light indicator of the brake controller from Tekonsha also changes from green to red to indicate power. In addition, Voyager (9030) packs a broad control range so users may optimize braking output for towing setups as they like. That is why Tekonsha Voyager (9030) is sought after by those who wish to have a firm grasp on trailer brakes. 

Thanks to the integration of the plug-and-play feature, Voyager (9030) could be installed in a blink of an eye. Interestingly, being fashioned with first-class compatibility, the brake controller made by Tekonsha would work alongside other electrical systems without causing interference to their operation. Hence, Tekonsha Voyager (9030) is capable of pairing with a diversity of trailers in towing operations. Aside from that, with a low profile, Voyager (9030) occupies insignificant space on the dashboard and that earns it good scores in trailer brake controller reviews . 

As a budget-friendly model, Tekonsha Voyager (9030) fits the wallet of people who don’t like to spend big bucks. Tekonsha back its brake controllers for trailers with a reassuring five-year manufacturer warranty that put users at ease too. 

  • Fast shipping 
  • Wonderful versatility 
  • Owner’s manual is poorly-written 
  • Missing hardware is reported on occasions 

TEKONSHA 90885 / Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Electronic Brake Control f/1-4 Axle Trailers - Proportional

Boasting outstanding responsiveness, Tekonsha P2 (90885) would activate the brakes of towed trailers as soon as people depress the brake pedal. Therefore, with P2 (90885) onboard, the braking system of towing vehicles is going to suffer less wear and tear over time. Furthermore, the Tekonsha brake controller carries a boost feature that permits allocations of additional power to braking so it’s able to manage variable loads. Depending on the requirements, you could set the boost of Tekonsha P2 (90885) for automatic activation or turn it on manually. 

The brake controller of Tekonsha is assembled with 360-degree rotation so regardless of orientation, the top-mounted display remains visible. Since P2 (90885) level on its own in the course of operation, there is no need to worry about tuning it as you navigate terrains too. Owing to continuous diagnostics, Tekonsha P2 (90885) would detect potential problems in towing setups and communicate them to users before they have a chance to manifest. As a result, compared to classic brake controllers, the brake controller from Tekonsha is unmatched in terms of situational awareness.  

Aside from installation hardware, P2 (90885) of Tekonsha is accompanied by a very detailed owner’s manual on arrival so its setup process rarely takes long. As for post-purchase support, Tekonsha backs its brake controller with a lifetime manufacturer warranty. 

  • High accuracy
  • Small build 
  • A bit expensive 
  • Certain units show up without enough hardware 

Trailer Brake Controller: Important Buying Criteria

Trailer brake controllers come in two types, as discussed above, with a variety of added features for optimal performance and available at widely varying price points, so there’s something for every camper or every towing job. Of course, if you have a fixed budget or if you only tow light weights occasionally, you might compromise on some aspects to get the most suitable one for your needs. In any case, to make an informed and wise decision, you need to consider all of the criteria below when assessing different models. 

While some trailers use a hydraulic braking system which is often called electric over hydraulic systems, trailer brakes are most commonly electric brakes, since they are cheaper to produce still offering an excellent response time. It’s important to know which type your trailer has before purchasing a brake controller, as the brake controller needs to communicate with the trailer’s braking system properly for optimal braking performance. An electric over hydraulic braking system is more commonly found in high-end trailers.  

That said, do not just readily assume that your trailer has an electric brake. Brake controlling is a delicate task and requires precision, so always check what system your trailer has, and whether the particular brake controller unit you’re eyeing is compatible with what you have. This is because not all brake controllers today can work with both electric braking systems and hydraulic braking systems.

Brake controllers come designed to control a set number of axles, so you’ll need to know how many your trailer has in order to ensure that the model you buy delivers optimum performance. In case you don’t know, most trailer brake controllers on the market nowadays could control up to eight wheels across four axles. The minority might only control six wheels across three axles, or in rarer cases only four wheels across two axles.

A top-rated trailer brake controller should have a convenient monitor that allows you to easily monitor the whole towing setup while you’re driving. A built-in digital display shows important data from the controller, including battery, output current, and brake pad force. It will feature advanced diagnostics that allow you to keep track of what’s going on, including updates on the trailer braking and cargo.

The best models today typically feature a LED monitor, which is reliable, durable, and easy to read. With a monitor in place, it’s recommended that you frequently look at the display monitor to ensure the system is functioning as required.

Manufacturers design their brake controllers for trailers with multiple goals in mind, thus, market models contain a diversity of features. Normally, by reviewing your requirements in towing operations, you would be able to determine for yourself what features you need. Looking at these features would help you further shortlist the best trailer brake controllers for your usual towing needs. 

A number of brake controllers allow users to manipulate the force exerted on brake pads while others could swiftly change between electric and hydraulic braking. 

Most trailer brake controllers today feature a handy manual activation button to activate the trailer brakes whenever needed, such as for correcting minor trailer sway and gradually slowing down on a steep hill, all without you having to apply the brakes of your towing vehicle. 

Many brake controllers will also have what’s called a boost feature. This provides a higher initial braking boost, which is required when the trailer is larger and heavier. It will take some testing to see what level of braking boost is right for your trailer and its load, which should not jam on the brakes too aggressively, but enough boost for the smoothest, most effective stopping power. 

Most brake controllers will also have a finger trigger that allows you to activate the brakes with the pull of a lever. This is how you test the brakes to make sure they are working when you first drive away. 

Since you will install the brake controller on your dashboard, size is an important factor. For example, if you have a small dashboard, you won’t want a large device. To avoid ending up with an oversized model that will make the dashboard cluttered, take the dimension of the spot where you intend to install the trailer brake controller into account. The unit should also be placed in a space that is easy to access and manipulate as needed.

When applying brakes, the condition of the tires significantly affects the outcome which means tire safety is an essential consideration. As a result, to pick up the best trailer brake controller for your rig, you have to prioritize models that keep the tires under control. The best trailer brake controller will control your wheels and prevent them from making sudden, jerky movements. 

Via the owner’s manual, you could gain valuable details about how well certain brake controllers manage the tires of towing setups on the road. Before purchasing a trailer brake controller, make sure it has the appropriate features and mounting options that can better make sure that your tires don’t move in an unsafe manner. 

In towing operations, your rig as well as everything on it should continuously experience vibration that presents tests of endurance. Hence, if you don’t like to replace your brake controller frequently, it’s strongly recommended that you treat durability as one of the priorities. In the usual cases, by examining the construction material of models, you may be able to deduce its structural integrity. Naturally, you need to steer clear of trailer brake controllers that integrate fragile materials with less than ideal average lifespans. 

Trailer brake controllers work with either a 12-volt or a 24-volt system. Before you decide on a particular trailer brake controller, it’s important to know which one yours operates on. Your towing vehicle’s power source must be compatible with the trailer’s brakes or else your brake controller may malfunction, which totally makes its addition to your towing setup meaningless, since it’s supposed to provide you with safer towing operations.

While the unit itself is quite affordable, the installation process is very complicated and is best left to the pros. To have it professionally installed, you can expect to pay in the hundreds, typically close to $300 for labor on models with the most complicated installation procedures.

On average, you can expect to pay anywhere between $60 and $350 for the controller itself, depending on whether you opt for a timed controller or a proportional controller. While most models fall within this price range, you can also find some models costing less than $60. Anything below $60 is considered to be cheap, might be too cheap if you’re buying insurance for safer towing.

Below $60: Models within this range typically are the time-delay variety or are proportional lacking a boost mode and are more difficult to calibrate. However, on the upside, they are basic and practical. Depending on your towing situation, models in the range give a good account of themselves despite the lack of fancy features. The simplicity of these brake controllers permits them to operate in an assortment of environments.

From $60 To $150: Being middle-class models, trailer brake controllers in the range carry various helpful functions without costing a fortune. Incapable of dropping big bucks on a brake controller but still want something of quality? Then you should consider models that cost between $50 and $100. 

From $150 to $350: Loaded with virtually everything people need in brake controllers, models in the range appear expensive but the values they provide match their price tags. In addition, with fantastic lifespans, such brake controllers could last through plenty of towing operations. If you tow often, especially with heavy loads, this price is well justified, since you’re paying an insurance for your safety as well as your vehicles’. Plus, the best trailer brake controller would allow for less wear and tear on your vehicles’ brakes, saving you money on premature replacements.

Overall, the brand of a model doesn’t dictate its performance entirely. The best trailer brake controller for your set budget should depend on how often you tow and your towing needs. If you come across a brake controller that meets your requirements, feel free to purchase it regardless of its brand. Nonetheless, if you’re not familiar with trailer brake controllers, purchasing the best trailer brake controller that’s highly rated from a major manufacturer would be a good insurance policy. 

Products from prestigious makers would typically have more reviews online by both buyers and experts, thus you have much more information to rely on. Plus, the most trusted household names usually offer better customer service to assist you during the complicated installation and setting up process.

Tekonsha – As a long-established brand, Tekonsha possesses substantial experience in putting together trailer brake controllers. Nowadays, once it comes to dependability and reliability, models made by Tekonsha don’t have many competitors on the market. 

Draw-Tite – Thanks to applications of innovations in production lines, Draw-Tite could introduce solid brake controllers for trailers at reasonable prices. As a result, Draw-Tite models prove popular among those that have limited shopping budgets. 

CURT Group – With an emphasis on convenience, Curt is well-known for designing brake controllers that take moments to install and could be adapted for numerous operations. Needless to say, a lot of people hold Curt and its models in high esteem. 

Reese Towpower- By continuously optimizing its models, Reese keeps its brake controllers for trailers competitive over time. Moreover, since models of Reese have undemanding maintenance, there is no need to give them unique treatment on the road. 

Hopkins Towing Solution – Hopkins Manufacturing Corporation was founded in 1953 and is located in Emporia, Kan. It’s one of the industry’s top leaders in towing electrical products.

How to Use a Trailer Brake Controller

Using a brake controller while towing a trailer involves installing and mounting the controller, calibrating it, adjusting trailer brake gain, adjusting braking sensitivity, adjusting a few personal settings, then manually activating the trailer brakes and testing if the brake controller works properly. If it doesn’t upon testing, you will find the steps for troubleshooting at the end of this section.

Most trailer brake controllers will come with a mounting bracket and all necessary hardware included in the kit. Most trailer brake controllers would typically slide, sometimes screw, into this bracket, which is most conveniently screwed into the bottom of your dash for easy monitoring.

If you opt for a proportional trailer brake controller, make sure you mount it the right way. If they aren’t mounted level or are mounted upside down, you can mess up the accelerometer.

That said, most controller kits won’t include a wiring harness, which must be purchased separately. Make sure you read the product manual to choose the right wiring harness for your vehicle. The wiring harness will plug into the controller unit and a port underneath the dashboard. In many trucks and full-sized SUVs, you only need to plug the wiring harness into the port to complete the simple installation process. The port’s location can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle, so you should either locate it by consulting your owner’s manual or look for help online, particularly in auto forums or blogs.

If your vehicle is not a truck or an SUV, that is if it is not equipped for towing, you’ll have to run wires linking the trailer brakes, ground, vehicle brakes and battery power. This wiring process is much more complicated, and it’s recommended that you seek professional service. If you’re inclined to do it yourself, seek out step-by-step wiring guides online to ease your task.

One common question by DIY-ers is which axle should trailer brakes be on. Typically trailers will carry more of their weight on the front, as this is the rule of thumb in distributing cargo weight for less side-to-side swaying. This means while braking, the front axle would most likely carry more weight, thus you would want to put the brakes on the front axle.

The job of the brake controller is to send the appropriate amount of electricity to the trailer’s brakes for the most effective, safest braking possible. You must adjust the setting properly to allow the brake controller to do its job optimally. Imagine if the brake controller sends too much current back to the brakes, the brakes would abruptly jam the brake pads into the drums and lock up the brakes. This would skid the tires and make it harder for you to control or stabilize your whole towing setup, and this braking style would wear out the brakes prematurely. 

A brake controller needs to be set properly. In other words, it must let both the tow vehicle and the trailer brake for themselves, instead of making one of them do most of the job to bring the towing setup to a stop. If the trailer’s brakes receive too little electricity from the brake controller, the trailer won’t be able to brake for itself, which means the brakes on the tow vehicle would have to take care of slowing down or stopping the trailer. However, if the brake controller sends too much power to the trailer’s brakes, then they would get the job of slowing or stopping the tow vehicle in front. 

Both scenarios would lead to premature wear and tear to the brake system on both vehicles, and also the wear on the two would not be even, which means your safety while towing is compromised as well as costly replacement. 

Different brake controllers require different methods and steps for adjusting the settings, depending on the manufacturer and your unit’s make and model. Trailer brake controllers get very complicated once you go into the technical details. It’s critical that you have the manufacturer’s instructions on setup and strictly follow each step. 

You should also look online or Youtube for video tutorials on how to adjust the setting of your particular model, if any. Or if there’s none, look for videos on the same type of controller that you have so you’ll have a clearer idea of what the procedures look like. To help you get a general idea though, below are a step by step guide on how to adjust some important settings in an average trailer brake controller on the market today.

Plugging in the trailer wiring harness

For safety, make sure your vehicles are in an extended, open area with no traffic or pedestrians around, and plenty of stopping distance. Park your trailer on level ground, back your towing truck into position and couple your trailer to your truck. 

Then, make sure the trailer wiring harness is plugged into your towing vehicle before setting things up, as the brake controller needs to get power from our towing vehicle and must be connected to the brakes in your trailer to do its job.

Calibrating the brake controller 

Most brake controllers these days are self-calibrating. Others do not require calibration at all. First, park your vehicle on a level ground. Then, all you need to do is to plug your trailer into your tow vehicle and let the brake controller calibrate by itself. Typically, self-calibrating brake controllers will have a flashing light or other forms of signal to indicate when the unit is calibrating and when calibration is complete. After calibration, you might need to adjust the settings to best match the vehicle, the trailer and its load size by strictly following the product’s manual.

Setting the maximum power output

Maximum output is the maximum amount of electrical power the brake controller will send to the trailer’s brakes. This is also commonly called “setting the gain”. As the vehicle brake pedal is applied, the gain tells the brake controller how much current to apply to the trailer brake electromagnets. 

This output needs to be set and adjusted depending on the trailer’s gross weight when loaded. For larger trailers, use a higher output setting. For smaller trailers, use a lower output setting to avoid locking up the brakes and thus abrupt, jerky stopping.

To adjust the maximum output, first check your user instructions for the specified starting output value, then press and hold the vehicle brake pedal and set the output to the starting value.

Now, test the maximum output. In a safe and open area, drive your towing setup forward slowly at about 25 mph and apply the brakes. If it stops too abruptly or locks up, then the maximum output is set too high and needs to be reduced. In contrast, if the vehicle stops too slowly, increase the maximum output. 

You need to find the appropriate gain setting that would allow the trailer brakes to grip firmly for effective braking. In other words, you need to adjust the maximum output setting several times until you have found the highest output without locking up the trailer wheels. Too low a setting will mean that the trailer’s brakes won’t slow down or stop fast enough, but too high a setting will make the brakes locked up and you might lose control of your vehicles and can be dangerous in less than ideal road conditions.

An important note is you might also want to adjust the output setting to best suit the road conditions or the weather conditions for your long towing trip ahead for maximum safety. If you are going to tow in the rain or where there is gravel or loose rock, it’s a good idea to adjust the setting a bit lower so that the trailer brakes do not lock up and might cause you to lose control of your vehicles on rough terrains. Otherwise, if you are travelling on the highway in good weather, you may want to set it a bit higher so that the trailer will brake more aggressively for faster stopping.

Adjusting the sensitivity level

Sensitivity level refers to how aggressively your brake controller will apply the trailer brakes. Similar to adjusting the maximum output, you need to set the sensitivity level at the starting value specified in the products instructions. Then you can test the trailer brakes to adjust the sensitivity level accordingly.

In a safe and open area, drive slowly forward at about 25 mph and apply the brake pedal. If the vehicle stops too abruptly, set a lower sensitivity level. If the vehicle stops too slowly, increase the sensitivity setting. Next, you should test braking at various speeds to ensure effective and smooth stops in emergency situations as well as in different conditions.

Customizing settings

If your brake controller comes with personal settings like the angle of the interface or the brightness of the screen, adjust them to your preference before driving.

Press down on the brake pedal while watching the display on the brake controller. The light should come on and you should get a relatively steady voltage reading. Any variation either way should not exceed 1/10 of a volt.

If the display does not light up, the fuse to the controller is most likely burned. Inspect, have it replaced if needed and repeat the steps above. If the display still doesn’t light up, there’s another burned fuse. This means a short circuit that must be found and repaired before you can perform any tests to check if the brake controller is working.

Troubleshooting

Check the brake control wire: To troubleshoot, you need to first check the brake control wire, which is the blue wire in the trailer connector on the back of the tow vehicle. In a correctly wired connector, this wire should have voltage present when you press on the brakes on the tow vehicle. 

To check if this is the case, have an assistant press on the brake pedal in your truck while at the back, you use a multimeter to probe the terminal connected to the blue wire in the trailer connector. Ask your assistant to move the adjustment control on the brake controller. You should see the amount of voltage present vary. If there’s no voltage present, or if that voltage does not go up or down, there might be a problem with the blue wire itself, or your controller is faulty and needs to be replaced. 

To check the blue wire, probe for voltage in the blue wire. If there’s no voltage present, or the voltage present cannot be modulated, your trailer brake controller is faulty.

Check the wiring of the brake controller: Or the problem might be in the wiring of the brake controller unit. To check the wiring, sever the blue wire. Use a circuit tester to see if you get output to the blue wire. If there is a voltage present, try to activate the blue wire with both the brake pedal and the manual slide bar. If you can, next you will need to test the wires going into the brake controller.

There is a black wire and a red wire that exit from the back of the controller. Make sure you have power entering the brake controller on the black wire. You will only want power on the red wire when the brake pedal is pressed. If there’s no output to the red wire when the pedal is pressed, the controller needs to be replaced. Another scenario is if there is power on the red wire before the brake pedal is pressed, then the red wire is connected to the wrong circuit. To find the correct connection, you need to find the brake switch wire that has power only when the brake pedal is pressed.

FAQs About Trailer Brake Controllers

If your trailer has electric brakes or an electric over hydraulic system, they will not work without a brake controller. If your trailer is equipped with these brake systems, you will always need to install a brake controller before beginning any towing task, or else you won’t be able to operate your trailer brakes.  Many modern trucks and tractors that are designed to tow heavy trailers come with factory-installed brake controllers built into the vehicle, so you won’t need to install any additional controller. However, if yours does not come with a factory-installed brake controller, you will need to have one installed. First is for safety, and second, to comply with the current law.   Due to the necessity of a controller in heavy towing tasks, most states in the United States require by law that you have a brake controller installed if your trailer weighs over 3,000 pounds when fully loaded or the trailer gross weight exceeds 40% of the tow vehicle’s gross weight. Since it’s more likely than not that except for the tiny teardrop trailers and the smallest travel trailer models, most fifth wheels and travel trailers you’d be towing usually double to triple the weight of the towing truck, so having a trailer brake controller installed is an absolute must. 

Electric trailer brakes do not work without a brake controller. If your trailer is equipped with electric brakes, you will need to check whether it comes with a preinstalled controller and if not, have one installed before any towing. 

In most cases, a proportional trailer brake controller provides more comprehensive protection and offers superior performance, especially if you tow regularly or tow heavy trailers and especially in case of emergency braking scenarios. A timed brake controller is much simpler and is also cheaper. Despite not being as good, it should be an economical choice if you only occasionally tow smaller, lighter trailers.

On average, you can expect to pay anywhere between $60 and $350 for the controller itself, depending on whether you opt for a timed controller or a proportional controller. 

While the unit itself is quite affordable, the installation process is very complicated and is best left to the pros. To have it professionally installed, you can expect to pay in the hundreds,

If you set them up properly, they should last anywhere from 4 years to 10 years , with many users reporting that theirs are still going strong past the 10-year mark.

In general, the best setting for a brake controller directly depends on your trailer and the weight of its cargo. Each manufacturer would provide a detailed manual that will instruct you how to adjust the setting, including the gain level and sensitivity level. Start with what the manufacturer recommended. Then, test the brake controller and brakes to see if you need to increase the settings for more gain or sensitivity.

It’s simple. All you need to do is to unplug the brake controller for about 10 seconds and then plug it in again. This should reset your trailer brake controller.

Most brake controllers these days are self-calibrating. First, park your vehicle on a level ground. Then, all you need to do is to plug your trailer into your tow vehicle and let the brake controller calibrate by itself. After calibration, you might need to adjust the settings to best match the vehicle, the trailer and its load size by strictly following the product’s manual.

Most brake controllers today are made to stay active for a few minutes after the vehicle is turned off and then will eventually go into sleep mode if there’s no activity. And don’t worry, as the small LED light that indicates its mode will only draw such a negligible amount of power that it would not drain your battery.

The controller will go into sleep mode after a few minutes once your vehicle is turned off. If you want to turn the brake controller off completely, just unplug the connector at the back of the unit.

Look for the red wire that comes out from the back of the controller. Use a circuit tester to check if this wire only goes hot when you press on the brake pedal. If it does, then the controller is faulty and must be replaced.

Press down on the brake pedal while watching the brake controller. The display on the controller should light up and hold a relatively steady reading, which should not vary by more than 1/10 of a volt up and down.

Yes it can detect connections with the trailer. The brake controller sends a small amount of voltage to the trailer’s brakes via the brake output wire. Whenever a trailer is hooked up, the magnets in the brake assemblies will create a power draw. This tells the brake controller that a trailer is connected.

It’s difficult to ascertain that your trailer’s electric drum brakes are working just by pressing the brake pedal during a test drive. The best way is to bypass the brake pedals on your tow vehicle. The purpose of this testing method is to get a more accurate sense of any resistance that is coming exclusively from the electric brakes of the trailer itself instead of the brakes in your towing truck. Look for the indicator light or a slide bar with a scale from 0 to 10 on your brake controller. Once you’ve located the slide bar, drive forward slowly and at the same time, start pulling on it gradually to move from 0 to 10. You should feel stronger and stronger resistance from the trailer’s brakes. As you gradually move toward 10 on the slide bar, if you can hardly feel any braking, then the brakes on your trailer are not working properly. You can also double check the trailer’s electric drum brakes without connecting it to your truck. To do this, you’ll need to directly apply +12-volt power from a fully-charged battery to the hot and ground contacts on the trailer’s plug or to the two wires of an individual brake assembly. Then try to rotate the hub. You should feel some resistance and hear gentle humming from the brake magnets.  If you don’t get any resistance, troubleshoot by inspecting the most common sources of problem. First, check the vehicle and trailer connectors for corrosion. The parts most likely to be corroded due to exposure to moisture are the brake feed circuit and ground as they are at the bottom of the connector. Next, check for loose or corroded main ground wire. This sometimes occurs if a trailer is parked idle for extended periods at a time. Any corrosion will cause a short inside the connector and prevent power from reaching the trailer’s brakes. If the main ground wire is fine, check each brake’s ground wire to make sure all of them are made to clean bare metal. If a loose or corroded connection is not the culprit, the problem might be in the wiring of the brake controller unit. To check the wiring, sever the brake output wire, which is typically blue. Use a circuit tester to see if you get output to the blue wire. If you do, try to activate the blue wire with both the brake pedal and the manual slide bar. If you can activate it, you will need to test the wires going into the brake controller. There is a black wire and a red wire that exit from the back of the controller. Make sure you have power entering the brake controller on the black wire. You will only want power on the red wire when the brake pedal is pressed. If there’s no output, the controller needs to be replaced. Another scenario is if there is power on the red wire before the brake pedal is pressed, then the red wire is connected to the wrong circuit. To find the correct connection, you need to find the brake switch wire that has power only when the brake pedal is pressed.  If that doesn’t resolve the issue, it’s most likely that your trailer’s electric brakes are not working properly due to missing components such as a slack adjuster, poorly adjusted brakes or grease-saturated and/or delaminated brake shoes. The problem might also lie with the brake magnets, which you can test using a multimeter.

You can also find other in-depth reviews and buyer’s guides on  best RV tire pressure monitoring system , best RV backup camera , best TV for RV , best portable satellite dish for RV , best RV TV antenna , best Wifi boosters for RV , best cell phone booster for RV , best RV stereo , best pet temperature monitor for RV , best RV GPS , best RV thermostat , best RV security system , and best TV mount for RV  in  RV Electronics  category where we provide you the handpicked list of top-rated products on the market with specific reviews, pros and cons to help you easily choose the best products for your needs and preference.

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About Chris Coleman

Chris Coleman is an interesting travel blogger and outdoor photographer with a great sense of humor. He owns an RV Accessories shop in New York City so he has the knowledge necessary to provide thorough reviews and give advice on how to choose the right products for RV travel. He puts all that RV knowledge and experience to good use in his sharing posts. Besides product buying guides/reviews, Chris also writes informative articles, how-to articles and RV camping guides in his own interesting viewpoint. Chris’s blog is one of the most reliable information sources for RV campers no matter if you're an expert or a determined beginner.

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Best Trailer-Brake Controllers: Make Towing Easier

Keep your trailer secure and tracking true with these picks for the best trailer-brake controllers.

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To make towing a little easier and more secure, you must equip yourself with a quality trailer-brake controller. Designed to apply your trailer’s brakes to increase your safety as you navigate the road, installing a trailer-brake controller can make your journeys a lot less stressful. You’ll easily be able to keep trailers small and large under control and at just the right speed, and your entire towing process can become more manageable right from the driver’s seat. These devices are simple to install and come with plenty of features. I’ve rounded up some of the best trailer brake controllers you can buy online right here.

Tekonsha P3 Electronic Brake Control

Tekonsha P3 Electronic Brake Control

  • Easy to install and adjust
  • One-button switch adds boost in seconds
  • Clear display alerts you to potential problems
  • Buttons can stick
  • No on/off switch

Draw-Tite Activator IV Electronic Brake Control

Draw-Tite Activator IV Electronic Brake Control

  • Mounting possible at any angle
  • Easy to program with simple, straightforward controls
  • Reliable performance
  • Instructions aren’t the clearest or best

Redarc Tow-Pro Elite V2 Electric Brake Controller

Redarc Tow-Pro Elite V2 Electric Brake Controller

  • Offers two types of braking for better versatility
  • User-controlled settings can add more braking power
  • Doesn't over- or underpower the brakes
  • Best for smaller trailers
  • Installation can be a bit involved

Our Methodology

In order to narrow down our list of the best trailer brake controllers, I sought out products from reputable brands that offer reliable performance and ensure you can tow your trailer safely without worrying about the brakes. We considered and compared each brake controller’s feature set, ease of use and installation, any available real-life experiences, and price. From there, we assessed how helpful each could be to those towing trailers small and large.

Best Trailer Brake Controller Reviews & Recommendations

Best Overall: Tekonsha P3 Electronic Brake Control

Best Value: Draw-Tite Activator IV Electronic Brake Control

Most Versatile: Redarc Tow-Pro Elite V3 Electric Brake Controller

Best for Large Trailers: Reese Towpower Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control

Best Digital: Hopkins Insight Brake Control

Best for Power: Curt Venturer Electric Trailer Brake Controller

Best Overall

  • Number of Axles: 1 to 4
  • Display Type: LCD
  • Weight: 1 lb
  • LCD display offers a wealth of critical towing information
  • Boost feature allows for braking customization
  • Mounts at any angle and can be adjusted
  • No on/off switch means device never shuts off
  • Buttons can stick for some users

It’s hard to beat all of the features available on the Tekonsha P3 Electronic Brake Control. This small device doesn’t just help manage your braking power while you’re towing a trailer. It also allows you to see vital vehicle information while you’re on the road and can alert you to potential problems. With a clear LCD display, multiple screen color choices, and three languages, this device lets you check output current, battery, brakes, output voltage, and any warning alerts. It even lets you customize your braking effort with a boost feature that offers both hydraulic and electric braking modes. You can store your preferences and get the trailer brake controller up and running easily with its plug-and-play design.

While it’s hard to imagine this brake controller getting any better, there are a few areas in which it could be improved. Buttons can stick on the device, which can get frustrating. And there is no on/off switch.

Draw-Tite Activator IV Electronic Brake Control

  • Display Type: LED
  • Weight: 8 oz
  • Easy installation with plug-and-play plugs
  • Boost mode works in reverse, which is especially handy for parking
  • Works with a range of trailers in various sizes
  • Instructions aren’t the best

You can get a good trailer brake controller without making a huge investment. The Draw-Tite Activator IV Electronic Brake Control is perfect proof. This device, which works for trailers with one to four axles, puts both power and control in your hands. With easy viewing from any angle and up front push buttons make it easy to sync and control, even when you’re on the road. The time actuated controller is simple and straightforward, with just enough frills to give you better ease of use and adaptability while towing. Plus, there’s an illuminated LED readout that displays diagnostic data when issues occur so you can solve problems. Installation, programming, and setup are simple, and you’ll be able to mount this brake controller in any position thanks to the simple no-leveling-required design.

The instructions for this electronic trailer-brake controller, however, could be better. Fortunately, this device is pretty easy to set up, so it’s not much of a loss, but newbies may want to do a little searching online if they get stuck.

Most Versatile

Redarc Tow-Pro Elite V3 Electric Brake Controller

Redarc Tow-Pro Elite V3 Electric Brake Controller

  • Number of Axles: 1 to 3
  • Display Type: None
  • Weight: 11.7 oz
  • Offers customizable braking settings
  • Adapts directionally and to different terrain or vehicle types
  • Works with both 12-volt and 24-volt vehicle systems
  • May not match your existing OEM accessories
  • Can be a bit bulky for some personal preferences
  • Extensive installation process

If you want to truly be prepared for everything, you’ve got to check out the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite V3 Electric Brake Controller. This trailer-brake controller offers an impressive amount of versatility, and it puts control in your hands with some great customization options. You can start by choosing between proportional or user-controlled trailer braking force. And if you want the most versatility and customization, user-controlled braking allows you to adjust and change settings based on the roads you encounter, the terrain conditions, your vehicle type, or simply your personal preferences. In addition, the controller offers Active Calibration to constantly monitor your direction, and it can calibrate from any mounting orientation or even if you don’t have your trailer attached.

For some, however, the size and shape of the device itself can be a bit bulky or not perfectly match your OEM accessories. And installation, while not complicated, can take time and require removing some of the trim pieces in your vehicle interior.

Best for Large Trailers

Reese Towpower Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control

Reese Towpower Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control

  • Weight: 5.6 oz
  • Great for heavier, larger trailers
  • Can help maintain your vehicle’s brakes over years of use
  • Helps offer better control over braking power and speed
  • Doesn’t include all mounting accessories
  • Have to purchase critical accessories separately

If you’re towing a trailer that features more than just one or two axles, you need a trailer-brake controller that can support the extra length and weight, such as the Reese Towpower Brake Control. This compact device is suitable for use with trailers with up to four axles, giving you more options. And it performs quite reliably. You’ll enjoy reverse battery protection and plenty of diagnostic features displayed right on the easy-to-read LED screen. Plus, the included boost mode offers more force for initial trailer braking to give you a safer stopping distance and power. With advanced proportional braking, this controller will help apply brake pressure to match your deceleration rate, a detail that’s especially key when you’re hauling a heavier load. With regular use, it may help extend the lifespan of your vehicle’s brakes.

When it comes to potential disadvantages of this brake controller, keep in mind that it sometimes comes with an incorrect harness. And while the product description mentions a universal connector that’s included, it actually has to be purchased separately.

Best Digital

Hopkins Insight Brake Control

Hopkins Insight Brake Control

  • Display Type: Digital
  • Weight: 12 oz
  • Offers multiple sensitivity settings for customization
  • No-tool installation method
  • Mirrors your vehicle’s braking
  • Three components complicate installation
  • Difficult installation process
  • Instructions are unclear

If you’re looking for a smart trailer brake controller, the Hopkins Insight Brake Control is a great digital option. This electronic device, which works on trailers with either electric or hydraulic brakes, utilizes advanced brake technology that mirrors the braking of whatever vehicle is handling the towing. It delivers smooth, safe stops for better control. And with its digital power, you’ll have seven different sensitivity settings to choose from, including an intuitive vertical manual slide. Designed to mount within your reach, it’s always easy to see and use on your dash. No tools are required for installation, and you can stay in control with seven sensitivity settings.

Backed by a lifetime warranty, this trailer brake controller offers solid reliability. But the design can be a potential drawback. With three individual, separate items to install, it can be a challenge to actually get installed, and the instructions are quite vague and limited.

Best for Power

Curt Venturer Electric Trailer-Brake Controller

Curt Venturer Electric Trailer-Brake Controller

  • Weight: 7.5 oz
  • Fast installation process
  • LED display screen shows critical operations and problem-solving data
  • Works with a variety of different trailer brakes and braking systems
  • Highly sensitive buttons and controls
  • Doesn’t include the right bolts
  • Installation can be difficult

The Curt Venturer Electric Trailer-Brake Controller is a fantastic option if you both want more power and want to stay in control of that power. This device allows for reliable safety and long-term reliability, as it increases the braking pressure for your trailer each time you actually step on the brakes. And it stops smoothly. You can monitor everything via the easy-to-read LED display, which includes no moving internal parts to keep functionality simple. You can enable powerful brake operation with the manual brake slider button, adjustable toggle, and adjustable ramp time. It’ll work with any trailer that has one to three axles and is compatible with cruise control, anti-lock brakes, low-voltage systems, and PWM systems. Plus, it easily and quickly plugs right into place.

This trailer brake controller isn’t without its flaws, however. It’s very sensitive, which makes even the slightest touch to the buttons significant. And it doesn’t include the right bolts you need for installation.

Our Verdict

The Tekonsha P3 Electronic Brake Control is the best pick for a reliable trailer-brake controller. This device can control up to four axles and includes a handy boost feature, plus simple plug-and-play setup. The Draw-Tite Activator IV Electronic Brake Control is another great pick, especially if you’re looking for a good value. With an affordable price and simple installation and mounting, it’s a brake controller you can see from any angle and easily snap right into place. 

What to Consider When Buying a Trailer Brake Controller

Picking out the perfect trailer-brake controller for your towing needs can be a bit complicated. You need to think about the features of your trailer as well as what kinds of features are must-haves in your brake controller. But we’re here to help, and we’ve got all of the advice you need to find just the right device.

Types of Trailer Brake Controllers

Proportional.

A proportional trailer-brake controller uses internal, inertia-based sensors to determine when and how your vehicle brakes. When your tow vehicle decelerates, the sensor reacts and commands the controller to send power to the brakes. The best proportional trailer brake controller provides uniform, smooth braking without any push-pull movements.

With a time-delay trailer-brake controller, you’ll have a bit of a delay when you first apply the brakes. A signal is sent to the brake controller, which sends voltage to the trailer brakes. The delay can be adjusted; you can change it in the sync setting, along with additional settings like the braking power and rate of application. A time-delayed controller can be mounted at any angle because it doesn't have internal parts that sense the tow vehicle's braking motions. These controllers are simpler to install and cheaper but not recommended for larger trailers. 

Trailer Brake Controller Key Features

Voltage is one of the top factors when it comes to finding the best-rated brake controller. A tow brake controller consists of either 12 or 24 volts. The vehicle's power source must be compatible with the trailer's brakes. If the two units don't match, the braking controller may malfunction, increasing the risk of an accident.

Brake System

Trailers with electric brakes are governed by a brake controller, while hydraulic brakes require a special coupler. A towing vehicle does not control this braking element. Certain trailers have both electric and hydraulic components. The best aftermarket trailer brake controller should have the ability to operate both types.

Pricing 

Most trailer-brake controllers are priced below $250. Many of the top products even fall below $100 total. If you’re shopping on a budget, you can find simple and straightforward trailer-brake controllers for $25 to $50, though these products picks tend to have limited extras and are pretty streamlined in their features. Spend $55 to $125, and you’ll be able to shop a wide selection of controllers that include extras like informative LED displays and perks like boost features. And the most premium options may run you $125 and up, including high-tech picks for trailers with over four axles. 

You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.

Q: What’s better: a timed or proportional brake controller?

A: In most cases, a proportional trailer brake controller is the better pick, especially if you tow regularly or tow heavy trailers. Proportional braking is superior during emergency braking scenarios. A timed brake controller is fine if you only occasionally tow smaller trailers.

Q: Can I tow a trailer with electric brakes without a brake controller?

A: No, you’ll absolutely need a trailer brake controller. Trailers with electric brakes must have one of these devices, otherwise the trailer’s brakes won’t work.

Q: Are all trailer-brake controllers the same?

A: There are two types of trailer brake controllers: proportional or time delay. While both activate a trailer’s brakes and apply pressure to slow you down, one comes with a delay and one is typically better for larger trailers.

travel trailer brake controller reviews

Why Trust Us

Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.

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Other ‘ Accessories ’ Reviews You Might Like:

10 Best Trailer Brake Controllers of 2023

Magnus Sellén

  • Updated: March 21, 2024

Mechanic Base is supported by its audience. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission.

Best Overall

Draw-Tite 5535

Draw-Tite 5535

The perfect brake controller with a great mix of affordability and quality.

Premium Choice

DirecLink

A high-performance brake controller with an OBD2 connector for diagnosis and installation.

Best Budget

Tekonsha 9030

Tekonsha 9030

A good and very affordable trailer brake controller if you have a tight budget.

If you’re going to tow something that weighs quite a bit for a longer stretch of time or at higher speeds, you’ll want to get a trailer brake controller to help make everything a bit safer.

But there are tons of trailer brake controllers out there, and getting the right one the first time is extremely important. You don’t want to spend a ton of money on something that doesn’t work and have to do it all over again, and you need to trust your trailer’s brakes!

It’s a dilemma we understand, and it’s why we took the time to highlight and review ten of the best trailer brake controllers on the market today.

Not only that, but our comprehensive buyer’s guide will highlight everything you need to know about trailer brake controllers from picking out the perfect one to installing it on your vehicle after you get it!

10 Best Trailer Brake Controllers

10 Best Trailer Brake Controllers

We know you’re busy and don’t want to scroll through a ton of text, which is why we wanted to put our reviews right here in the front for you. If you don’t know what you’re looking for you can skip to the buyer’s guide down below where we’ll break down everything you need to know about trailer brake controls.

But if you already have a basic understanding of what they are, when you want one, and how they work, the reviews are right here!

1. Draw-Tite 5535 – Best Trailer Brake Controller Overall

Draw-Tite 5535

Number of Axles: 1 to 4

Display Type: LED

If you’re looking for the best overall trailer brake control, look no further than the Draw-Tite 5535 Trailer Brake Controller. It’s an outstanding mix of price, quality, and features, vaulting it to the top of our list.

It’s quite possibly the easiest trailer brake controller to install, allowing you to put it in your vehicle and set it up in around 5 minutes. You don’t need to worry about installing it on a perfectly level surface, and the plug-and-play design is extremely easy to put into just about any vehicle.

The Draw-Tite 5535 Trailer Brake Control doesn’t have a ton of advanced features, but it does allow you to easily use access output and boost features with the click of a button.

Finally, it uses a proportional braking system that allows the trailer brakes to match the braking performance of the towing vehicle. It works for trailers with up to eight different brakes, meaning four different axles on a single trailer!

  • A great mix of price and features
  • Easy to access output and boost buttons
  • Requires no leveling
  • Plug-and-play design
  • No advanced features

2. Tekonsha 9030 Voyager Electronic Brake Control – Best Budget

Tekonsha 9030

If you’re on a tighter budget the Tekonsha 9030 Voyager Electronic Brake Control is the way to go. It’s one of the most affordable trailer brake controllers on the market today, and it still delivers reliable performance mile after mile.

It’s a proportional controller that allows the trailer brakes to accurately match the performance of the tow vehicle. But if you’re worried that it’s not going to match up this trailer brake controller allows you to step in for manual braking too.

It’s another plug-and-play option too, making it extremely easy to install on a wide range of vehicles. It’s an extremely versatile controller which is even more impressive considering the affordable price tag.

However, while it’s a pretty great all-around option, there are two things that keep it from climbing to the top of our list. First, it doesn’t have a ton of advanced features. But more importantly, it’s not the most durable option.

So, while it does an excellent job for a while, eventually you’ll need to replace it. Because of this it can’t make it to our top spot, but it’s an outstanding option to hold you over.

  • Very affordable
  • Proportional controller
  • Manual braking available
  • Extremely versatile design
  • Plug-and-play option
  • Not the most durable

3. DirecLink Brake Controller – Premium Choice

DirecLink Brake Controller

The DirecLink Brake Controller is easily the most expensive option on our list, but if you have the extra money to spend, we think it’s well worth every extra penny. It uses a standard OBD-II connection for easy installation and has tons of trailer brake diagnostics.

This allows you to see everything that’s going on at any point in time and if there are any problems you can quickly see what’s going on and fix the problem. And while you’re spending more on this trailer brake controller it also comes with a five-year limited warranty.

This means you’re spending a bit more upfront but since you don’t have to worry about replacing it anytime soon. It has easy-to-see, read, and use controls too, giving you a thorough understanding of everything that’s going on when you hit the brakes.

Whether it’s switching to a different sensitivity or something else entirely, the DirecLink Brake Controller makes it as easy as possible.

  • Extremely fast proportional braking
  • Uses the OBD-II connection
  • It has tons of trailer brake diagnostics
  • 5-year limited warranty
  • More expensive option

4. Tekonsha P3 Brake Controller

TEKONSHA P3

The Tekonsha P3 Brake Controller is another outstanding trailer brake controller you can use on your next trip. It’s another trailer brake controller with an outstanding combination of price and features.

It has a brake boost feature that can bail you out in a tight situation, and it has a manual braking feature you can use too. The Tekonsha P3 Brake Controller comes with all the necessary wiring to use it, but keep in mind that it only works with a very select few makes and models.

In fact, that’s why despite all the great features the Tekonsha P3 Brake Controller offers it couldn’t crack our top three. Still, it does have a limited lifetime warranty so you don’t ever need to worry about something going wrong with it.

It’s a long shot that it’ll work for your vehicle, but if it does you won’t find a better option than this. Plus, it’s super easy to install on those vehicles so you can quickly install it and move on with your day!

  • It has a brake boost feature
  • It also comes with all the necessary wiring
  • It has a limited lifetime warranty
  • It doesn’t work with a lot of vehicle types

5. Tow-Pro Elite Electric Brake Controller

Tow-Pro Elite Electric Brake Controller

  • Display Type: Analog

The Tow-Pro Elite Electric Brake Controller is another outstanding trailer brake controller you can get for your vehicle. It’s the first trailer brake controller on our list that doesn’t feature a digital readout for your current setting, but with the analog dial, it’s still extremely easy to see what’s going on.

It’s also extremely compact and easy to install, and the active calibration system ensures even braking performance day after day and mile after mile. And since it doesn’t have any of the advanced features and displays that many other trailer brake controllers come with, it’s relatively straightforward and easy to use.

However, if you are looking for a more advanced option, this isn’t it, and for what you’re paying for this controller we’d like it if it had a few more features. Still, it’s functional and simple, and if that’s what you’re looking for in a trailer brake controller, this is it.

  • It has proportional mode inertia sensing
  • Very compact design
  • Very easy to use
  • It has active calibration
  • No advanced display
  • Slightly more expensive for what you get

6. Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake Controller

Tekonsha 90195

  • Display Type: LCD

This is another Tekonsha Trailer Brake Controller you can quickly put onto your vehicle. It has several advanced features you can easily access and use like a manual override and boost, and the proportional brakes even work when you’re traveling in reverse!

It’s compact and easy to install too, although you will need to get the proper harness and wiring adapter to put it on your vehicle. It does self-level though, so you don’t need to find a perfectly level place to complete the installation process.

Add in the multiple ways you can mount this and it’s not hard to see why it made our list. Still, it doesn’t have any of the most advanced features like Bluetooth, and it couldn’t make it any further up our list since you’ll still need to purchase additional adapters and harnesses to install it on your vehicle.

But with all the features it provides and the reliable performance it delivers, the Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake Control more than earns its spot on our list.

  • It has manual override and boost
  • Multiple ways to mount it
  • It works proportionally in reverse
  • It self levels
  • No Bluetooth features
  • You need more stuff to install it

7. Hopkins Towing Solutions 47297

Hopkins Towing Solutions

The Hopkins Towing Solutions 47297 is another outstanding combination of price and quality. This trailer brake controller is easy to mount and use and won’t require any additional tools or drilling for installation. It works with both electric and hydraulic trailer brakes, and it has several advanced safety features built right in.

Furthermore, it comes with a lifetime warranty so you don’t ever need to worry about replacing it, and there are seven different sensitivity levels you can switch between to match different trailer loads and driving conditions.

Overall, it’s an outstanding mix of price and quality, giving you everything you could want from a trailer brake controller without completely draining the bank. However, it doesn’t have the most advanced features out there, and Hopkins Towing Solutions makes it in China.

Neither of these things are dealbreakers on their own, but you should be aware of them before you purchase it and install it on your vehicle.

  • A great mix of price and quality
  • Seven sensitivity settings
  • Very easy to mount
  • It comes with a lifetime warranty
  • Made in China
  • Not a ton of advanced features

8. Curt 51140 TriFlex Electric Trailer Brake Controller

CURT 51140

If you have a fleet of vehicles you’re looking to outfit with trailer brake controllers, you’ll want to consider the Curt 511040 TriFlex Electric Trailer Brake Controller. Not only is it a great mix of price and quality, but you can purchase a six-pack that significantly lowers the cost per brake controller.

You’ll still need to purchase the necessary adapter to install it to your vehicle, but the controller is extremely affordable. This trailer brake controller is compatible with vehicles that have ABS and cruise control too so it’s versatile enough to fit on just about any vehicle you might have.

It’s also easy to install and use, and the LED display makes it easy to see exactly what’s happening all the time. Finally, there are nine different sensitivity levels for you to pick from, which gives you the ultimate control to match your load and driving conditions.

The only real drawback with this trailer brake controller is that it stays on even after you turn the vehicle off. It doesn’t draw a lot of power, but for prolonged stays in one place it can drain the vehicle’s battery.

  • Nine sensitivity levels
  • Compatible with ABS and cruise control
  • Easy to install and use
  • Easy to read and see display
  • You’ll need an adapter cable to use it
  • It stays on even after you turn your vehicle off

9. Draw-Tite 5504 Activator IV Electronic Brake Control

Draw-Tite 5504

The Draw-Tite 5504 Activator IV Electronic Brake Control is yet another extremely affordable trailer brake controller you can use on your vehicle. It works for any trailer with 2 to 8 brakes, translating to one to four axles.

It’s easy to install and the LED display makes it easy to see the results while you’re driving. Additionally, the compact design allows you to install it just about anywhere in your vehicle, and it comes with all the necessary mounting hardware.

It’s a great all-around trailer brake controller for basic applications, but there are two primary drawbacks. First, it doesn’t have any advanced features. Second, while it advertises a “Plug and Play” design, you might need an adapter depending on what you drive.

Still, at this price point it’s hard to complain too much, and it’s one you’ll want to look into if you only need a single trailer brake controller and you’re on a tight budget.

  • Easy-to-see illuminated display
  • Very easy to install
  • Extremely compact design
  • You might need adapters

10. CURT 51110 Venturer Electric Brake Controller

CURT 51110

  • Number of Axles: 1 to 3
  • Display Type: LED light bar

The CURT 51110 Venturer Electric Brake Controller is the last option on our list, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth checking out. It’s an extremely affordable trailer brake controller, and you don’t need to level anything out when you’re installing it.

It’s easy to set up and use, and the simple design ensures you have everything you need to operate it with one glance. However, while it’s a simple and easy-to-use trailer brake controller you can get for a great price, it did fall to the bottom of our list for a reason.

Leading the list of reasons is the fact that it can only handle up to six brakes, which is one full axle less than the other options that made our list. Next, while other trailer brake controllers use a digital display with a number readout for extremely accurate results, the CURT 51110 Venturer Electric Brake Controller uses a light bar design.

Finally, while it has everything you need in a trailer brake controller, it doesn’t have any advanced features. It’s not a big deal for everyday applications, but it’s not ideal for most professional jobs.

  • You don’t need to level it
  • Very simple design
  • Easy to setup and use
  • It doesn’t work for four axles
  • It doesn’t have a number readout
  • Limited functionality

Trailer Brake Controller Buyer’s Guide

With so many outstanding trailer brake controllers out there, it can be challenging trying to narrow it down to just one. We understand the dilemma, and that’s why we came up with this buyer’s guide to walk you through everything you need to know.

Not only did we highlight when you need a trailer brake controller and how to install it, but we also took the time to break down the different types of trailer brake controllers you have to pick from.

When Do You Need a Trailer Brake Controller?

While you only need a trailer brake controller when you’re towing things over 3,000 pounds, it’s a good idea to have one anytime you’re towing a larger or heavier trailer. Trailer brake controllers provide braking power to the trailer you’re towing, giving you more control of everything while driving.

If you need to stop on a dime a trailer brake controller makes it a much safer task, and they’re relatively easy to purchase and install, and they don’t cost a ton either!

Boost and Manual Braking

Two features that you’ll find in a lot of trailer brake boosters are the “manual” braking and the “boost” braking. But if you don’t know what those mean, it doesn’t do much for you!

Let’s start with the manual braking button. Most, but not all, trailer brake controllers will come with a manual braking button you can press. When you press this button you’re manually activating the trailer brakes without activating the tow vehicle brakes.

Without a manual braking button, you can only activate the trailer brakes when you activate the tow vehicle brakes. The manual braking button changes this and gives you a little more control for different situations.

The other feature many trailer brake controllers have is the boost button or the boost feature. It depends on the system you go with exactly how to activate this feature, but it accomplishes the same goal no matter what.

The boost feature allows the trailer to temporarily boost the amount of braking force that’s applied to the trailer brakes. This is common when you’re towing a heavy load and you need to apply the brakes quickly.

For most smaller loads you won’t need a boost feature, but if your trailer weighs more than the tow vehicle, it’s a good idea to get a trailer brake controller with a boost feature. But for those heavier trailers, a trailer brake controller with a brake boost feature can be a lifesaver!

Trailer Brake Controller Sensitivity Levels

Another feature you’ll find in many trailer brake controllers is different sensitivity levels. This feature allows you to control how much braking force the trailer applies when you hit the brakes in the tow vehicle.

If you want more aggressive braking from the trailer you increase the sensitivity level, if you want less aggressive braking you decrease the sensitivity level. Sensitivity levels exist in both timed-delayed and proportional braking systems.

These features are nice since they’ll allow you to adjust for different road and driving conditions, and you can manually adjust the braking power for the trailer you’re towing. For heavier trailers, you might want a little more braking power, while for lighter ones, you might want a little less.

Adjust to your conditions and the only way you can do that is if you have a trailer brake controller with different sensitivity levels you can cycle through!

Types of Trailer Brake Controllers

When you’re picking out a trailer brake controller, there are two main types you need to be aware of. There is the more affordable time-delayed trailer brake controller and the more effective proportional brake controller.

We’ll break down the differences between the two types of brake controllers here so you can make an informed decision about what to get for your vehicle.

Time Delayed Trailer Brake Controller

A time-delayed trailer brake controller is a very simple concept. When you hit the brakes in the tow vehicle, it applies the brakes in the trailer at a set time afterward, and it applies the same amount of braking pressure each time.

Because of this time delayed trailer brake controllers give you very consistent results, but they won’t always match the braking force you need. Time-delayed trailer brake controllers are more affordable than proportional brake controllers, but they don’t provide the same level of results.

Today proportional brake controllers are far more affordable compared to years ago, and because of this we recommend going with a proportional brake controller every time. It might still cost a bit more, but when it comes to braking and safety, we don’t think you should take any chances.

Proportional Brake Controllers

Proportional brake controllers work by applying the same level of braking force to the trailer brakes at the same time as the brakes apply on the tow vehicle. This means if you need to hit the brakes hard and stop on a dime, the trailer brakes will do that, and if you need to gradually press the brakes for a longer controlled stop, they’ll do that too.

Proportional brake controllers allow the trailer brakes to match the braking power of the tow vehicle, which is a big deal in emergency braking situations. Instead of the trailer gradually pressing the brakes to slow it down, proportional brakes allow for the brakes to apply immediately.

Proportional brake controllers tend to cost a little more than a timed-brake controller, but today you can find plenty of lower-cost proportional brake controllers for your vehicle too!

Installing Your Trailer Brake Controller

Whether you go with a timed brake controller or a proportional brake controller once you get it you’ll need to install it on your vehicle. The good news is that installing a trailer brake controller on your vehicle is usually a pretty straightforward process, but we’ll walk you through everything you need to know here.

1. Disconnect the Battery

Before you work on any part of your vehicle’s electrical system, do yourself a favor and disconnect the battery. All it takes is one short while you’re plugging something in or unplugging it and you can accidentally fry an expensive component.

Taking the time to disconnect the negative terminal from the battery and letting it sit for about five minutes lets all the static electricity dissipate, ensures you won’t cross any lines, and keeps you and the various components in your vehicle safe.

2. Mount the Controller

The exact steps for this will vary depending on the option you go with, but most systems require you to drill small holes into the location where you’re connecting it. Ensure it’s in a location that you’ll have easy access to while you’re driving but won’t be in the way.

Not only that, but ensure the harness can reach the trailer plug that’s already in your vehicle. The last thing you want to do is install it only to realize it doesn’t reach the plug!

Finally, while you need to drill for most controller brackets, there are some that attach through other means. The brake controller you have should come with specific mounting instructions you need to follow.

3. Plug in the Harness

Once you mount the controller, all that’s left is for you to plug in the harness and then reconnect the battery! Everything should be ready to go now, and all that’s left is for you to connect the trailer brakes and get on with your trip!

When you’re shopping for a trailer brake controller, it’s perfectly normal to have a few questions. We understand and it’s why we decided to answer some of the most frequently asked questions for you here!

Are All Trailer Brake Controllers the Same?

Different trailer brake controllers will offer different features, specifications, and will come at different quality levels. However, generally speaking, there are two different types of trailer brake controllers, timed and proportional.

What Is the Difference Between a Timed and Proportional Brake Controller?

Proportional brake controllers immediately activate the trailer brakes at the same time and intensity as the tow vehicle brakes. Meanwhile, a timed brake controller activates the trailer brakes at a predetermined time and intensity after you activate the tow vehicle brakes.

Are Proportional Brake Controllers Better?

Proportional brake controllers are a superior choice compared to timed brake controllers. Proportional brake controllers provide more consistent braking power during emergency situations and even brake wear for the trailer and tow vehicle.

Can I Install My Own Trailer Brake Controller?

Yes! Most trailer brake controllers are relatively easy to install, especially if the tow vehicle already has the necessary connections. This is true for most conventional tow vehicles, but if your vehicle doesn’t have a tow package it can require a bit more work.

What Trailer Weight Requires a Brake Controller?

You should use a trailer brake controller anytime the loaded trailer weighs more than 3,000 pounds. You can use a trailer brake controller for smaller loads too, but it’s not completely necessary until you reach the 3,000-pound threshold.

Before you hook up your trailer for your next trip, do yourself a favor and get a trailer brake controller. You might not think you need it, but all it takes is one bad stretch of road or one stupid driver cutting you off and you’ll wish you had one.

And if you’re still a little unsure about which one to get after reading through everything, don’t overthink it! The Draw-Tite 5535 Trailer Brake Controller is our top choice for a reason. Of course if you are on a tighter budget, there’s nothing wrong with going with the Tekonsha 9030 Voyager Electronic Brake Control, it’s far better than not having one at all!

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5 Best Trailer Brake Controllers Reviewed

By: Author The Drivin' & Vibin' Team

Posted on August 14, 2021

A trailer brake controller is a great tool to help your truck stop that massive trailer you’re towing.

Certainly, one of the most asked questions in RV circles is, “Can my truck tow this RV?” It’s a crucial question, but perhaps a better question is, “Can my truck stop this RV?”

So, we took a look at a handful of the best trailer brake controllers and are sharing our findings with you.

Let’s dive in!

travel trailer brake controller reviews

What Is A Trailer Brake Controller?

A trailer brake controller is an electronic device that uses electricity from the tow vehicle’s electrical system to activate the trailer brakes. Enabling the trailer brakes makes it easier for the truck to stop while towing heavier loads and helps extend the life of a truck’s brake system while towing. These controllers enable the driver to apply the trailer brakes when needed by squeezing the tabs on the brake controller.

The driver should check the brake controller before hitting the road. Adjusting the gain on the trailer brake will either increase or decrease the amount of pressure applied by the trailer brakes. Once you’ve fine-tuned your trailer brake controller for your RV, it shouldn’t require much adjustment in the future.

If you’re planning to tow heavy loads, you may be required to use an independent braking system like a brake controller. Many states require brake controllers or other braking systems for trailers over 3,000 pounds. There may be exceptions if the trailer’s weight doesn’t exceed 40% of the tow vehicle weight, but you should always verify your local regulations.

Pro Tips: Don’t get caught in a stressful situation without a brake controller. Discover more about: What Is a Trailer Brake Controller?  

trailer brake controllers. brake safety.

What Are The Different Types Of Brake Controllers?

There are a couple of different options when it comes to types of brake controllers. Your choice in brake controller type will primarily be dependent on your towing needs. The two most popular brake controllers vary based on the intensity and consistency when applying the trailer brakes.

Time Delayed

A time-delayed brake controller was once the most popular choice for brake controllers because it was the only option. These brake controllers are known as user-controlled brake controllers. They allow the driver to choose how much power to give to the trailer braking system and delay sending it.

This style of brake controller is a popular choice because it’s relatively cheap and easy to install. Time-delayed brake controllers are prevalent in off-roading as it helps prevent your trailer tires from biting into the soft ground during a hard stop in the vehicle. Being able to adjust between braking styles based on the load you’re towing or where you’re towing is incredibly convenient.

While time-delayed brake controllers can be a great choice, there are some drawbacks that you should know. Since the brake power and consistency are the same with every brake press, the braking system doesn’t adjust based on the situation. This braking style can cause a push/pull effect while driving and potentially cause uneven wear on the brakes over time.

There also have been instances where brakes will pulse when a vehicle’s hazard lights are activated. You may find that some newer vehicles might not be compatible with using a time-delayed brake controller.

trailer brake controllers. brake safety.

Proportional

Proportional brake controllers are a popular choice because they can adjust braking pressure based on the truck’s brake pedal pressure. This braking style allows for an equal amount of pressure and a much smoother and controlled stopping experience.

These controllers are also intelligent and designed to release pressure on the trailer brakes when applied for an extended period. An example of this might be sitting in traffic or at a red light for a prolonged period. Specifically, if the system doesn’t release the pressure, it could cause your brakes to overheat and malfunction.

New vehicles have a good chance of coming with a proportional brake controller. If not, these brake controllers are more expensive than their time-delayed counterparts. If you’re lucky, you can pick up a proportional version of a brake controller for $30-$40 more than a time-delayed brake controller.

Keep in Mind: Selecting the right truck size doesn’t need to be overwhelming, but it is important to make sure it is proportional to what you are towing . We uncovered: What RV Towing Truck Size Do You Need?

The 5 Best Trailer Brake Controllers

You should have a decent understanding of what a brake controller does and the different types by now. Let’s take a look at five great options we think you should consider!

#1 – Tekonsha 90195 Electric Brake

About : This time-delayed brake controller can work on trailers with one to four axles. The illuminated LED output and display make it easy to view no matter how you choose to mount it. The mounting hardware is included, and the plug and play connections allow for a quick and easy installation.

Pros: A quick and easy installation process is always a win. Being able to use this brake controller on one- to four-axle trailers is also a tremendous capability. The $50-$60 price point is also an attractive quality that attracts consumers. Reviewers state that despite being cheaper, it gets the job done equally as well as competitors that are twice the price. 

Cons: One of the significant drawbacks of this trailer brake controller is the fact that it’s time-delayed. It does an excellent job under ideal circumstances, but it doesn’t perform well during hard braking or extended braking conditions. There are also several reports of poor customer service and the product malfunctioning after a year or two of use.

Best For: If you’re looking to tow short distances occasionally, this could be a great option. Time-delayed controllers are also an excellent choice for trailers driven in off-road conditions. The delay helps the trailer avoid abrupt stops, which often cause tires to sink into soft surfaces.

trailer brake controllers. brake safety.

#2 – Reese Towpower Pod Brake Control

About : This digital brake controller is time-delayed. It has pre-wired plug-and-play connections that make it easy to install on trailers with one to four-axle systems. The digital display allows the driver to easily see output settings, sync settings, brake overload, or even shorts in its connections. If you choose the Reese Towpower pod brake controller, it’ll come with advanced internal circuit protection to help prevent damage. 

Pros: Despite being a time-delayed brake controller, setting the delay as short as possible provides an instantaneous braking response. You get many of the benefits of a proportional brake controller, but with a much cheaper price tag. 

Cons: Even though this brake controller can mimic a proportional brake controller in many ways, it’s not. Applying the brakes, even lightly, for an extended period causes the brake controller to provide maximum braking on the trailer brakes. This issue will cause premature wear and tear on a braking system. Users also report that this brake controller’s emergency override doesn’t apply maximum pressure when needed in emergencies.

Best For: This controller is best for someone who plans to tow a couple of times per year. If you’re planning to do regular towing or towing long distances, this is not the brake controller for you.

travel trailer brake controller reviews

#3 – Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ

About : The Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ is a fully proportional brake controller. At $70-80, it’s only slightly more expensive than many time-delayed options. It utilizes a plug-and-play port for a quick and easy installation in your tow vehicle but could require a unique wiring harness.

This trailer brake controller will look great mounted on your dash with the included snap-in dash mounting hardware and easily stored when not in use. The digital readout confirms that the electrical connection is secure and the appropriate voltage reaches the trailer brakes.

Pros: This proportional brake controller works incredibly well while going forwards and in reverse. Installation and calibration are straightforward. You’ll be ready to tow in no time! You can buy with confidence as it has over 4,000 reviews but still has a 5-star rating.

Cons: There’s a good chance you’ll need to purchase an additional wiring harness based on your tow vehicle, which is not as “plug and play” as the company advertises. Some users complain the wiring harness for their truck made it impossible to mount the controller anywhere that was convenient.

Best For: This is best for users looking for a proportional brake controller but looking for value pricing. If you’re not planning to tow often but need the functionality of a proportional brake controller, this might be the brake controller for you!

#4 – Draw-Tite 5504 Activator IV

About : The Draw-Tite 5504 Activator IV is a time-delayed brake controller and is perfect for one to four axles. The large display makes it easy for the driver to see at almost any angle. The Activator is a tremendous value as it’ll only cost $50-$60. You’ll have everything you need to mount this controller in your vehicle. 

Pros: The Draw-Tite 5504 Activator IV is of tremendous value for those looking for a time-delayed brake controller. The quick and easy installation makes this an appealing brake controller for many.

Cons: The Draw-Tite 5504 Activator IV is a time-delayed brake controller. It won’t adapt to the braking situation and can cause issues when braking hard. Some Dodge owners stated they needed an adapter to connect to their vehicle.

Best For: This value-priced trailer brake controller is an excellent option for occasional towing or off-road towing. 

trailer brake controllers. brake safety.

#5 – Tekonsha 90885 Prodigy P2

About : The Tekonsha 90885 Prodigy P2 is a proportional trailer brake controller with a premium cost.  The $130 to $140 price gives users access to a generous amount of alerts and features not commonly seen on value-level controllers. This system’s quick and easy installation means you’ll be towing soon, and the easy-to-read LCD screen even has several language options available. For optimal security, the controller is easily removable from the mounting clip when not in use. 

Pros: You’ll receive battery, brake, and other warning system alerts for peace of mind while towing. The Tekonsha 80885 Prodigy P2 also has several boost settings that are fully customizable. This brake controller is wildly popular as it has over 4,500 reviews and still maintains a 5-star rating.

Cons: The only con of this incredible brake controller is the price. There are no widespread issues reported from users.

Best For: This is one of the best brake controllers on the market and is an excellent option for anyone looking to tow regularly. No matter the size of the trailer you’re planning to tow, this is an incredible option that you should consider.

trailer brake controllers. brake safety.

Do You Need A Trailer Brake Controller?

Whether you need a trailer brake controller or not will largely depend on the towing you plan to do. The heavier the load you’ll be towing, the harder it’ll be to stop when needed.

However, local regulations may require you to use a brake controller based on your load size and tow vehicle. A trailer brake controller is a great tool to assist with stopping your trailer, and we think your safety, and the safety of others, is worth the investment.

Use a Trailer Brake Controller for Safety’s Sake

Towing that big rig up into the mountains can be an accomplishment in itself. But your concern shouldn’t end there. A trailer brake controller will also help ensure you make it down the other side safely and in control. Have you ever had your trailer brake save the day while towing? Let us know!

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7 Best Trailer Brake Controllers. Electric, Proportional & Wireless

Installing the best trailer brake controller is essential to safe towing, preventing accidents, and making sure that you remain in full control of your tow vehicle and RV trailer.

If you don’t already own a trailer brake controller or are looking to upgrade an old model, make sure you check out our guide to finding the best trailer brake controller. We’ve selected, analyzed, and reviewed the most popular models on the market to enable you to make your purchase with confidence.

Table of Contents

  • 1 What is a Trailer Brake Controller?
  • 2 Do I Need a Trailer Brake Controller?
  • 3.1 Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake Control
  • 3.2 CURT 51180 Echo Mobile Electric Trailer Brake Controller
  • 3.3 Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control
  • 3.4 Reese Towpower 8508211 Brake Control
  • 3.5 Redarc Tow-Pro Elite V2 Electric Brake Controller
  • 3.6 CURT 51110 Venturer Electric Trailer Brake Controller
  • 3.7 CURT 51170 Spectrum Original Integrated Electric Trailer Brake Controller
  • 4 Compare the Best Trailer Brake Controllers
  • 5.2 Size and Weight of Your Towable
  • 5.3 The Capability of Your Vehicle
  • 5.4 Easy to Use
  • 5.5 Voltage
  • 5.6 Number of Axles
  • 5.7 Display
  • 5.8 Settings
  • 5.9 Controller Size
  • 5.10 Electric and Hydraulic Braking
  • 5.11 Tire Safety
  • 6.1 Proportional Controller
  • 6.2 Time-Delayed Controller
  • 7 Installation Guide for a Trailer Brake Controller
  • 8 Top Trailer Brake Controllers Video
  • 9 Maintenance Tips for a Trailer Brake Controller
  • 10 Legislation and Compliance for Trailer Brake Controllers
  • 11 Case Studies and User Experiences with Trailer Brake Controllers
  • 12 Future Trends in Trailer Brake Controllers
  • 13 Environmental Considerations for Trailer Brake Controllers
  • 14 Manufacturer Profiles for Trailer Brake Controllers
  • 15 Frequently Asked Questions
  • 16 Final Thoughts

What is a Trailer Brake Controller?

Trailer brake controllers are compact electronic devices that allow you to set up and control how and when your trailer brakes from inside your tow vehicle.

Units are usually dash mounted and have various features to enable you to adjust your brake settings to suit your driving style and trailer’s size and weight.

Do I Need a Trailer Brake Controller?

Without a trailer brake controller, your electric trailer brakes simply will not work. Most states require a brake controller to be fitted when towing a trailer over 3,000 pounds or one that weighs over 40% of your tow vehicle.

Even if you have a lightweight RV travel trailer, installing a trailer brake controller will ensure that your journey is safer and give you greater control over your driving. Using a trailer brake controller will also help to give you greater peace of mind when heading off on vacation down unfamiliar roads and on major highways.

Best Trailer Brake Controller

Looking for the best trailer brake controller for your travel trailer? We’ve handpicked and reviewed the very best models on the market, so you’re sure to find the best brake controller for your RV trailer right here.

Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake Control

Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake Control

Buy from Amazon

The P3 Trailer Brake Controller by Tekonsha is our best overall choice, tried, tested, and approved of by RVers up and down the country. With its true proportional braking system, this unit provides trailer brake control for up to four braking axles with a choice of electric over hydraulic or electric trailer brake mode.

This highly popular trailer brake controller features an easy to read LCD with up-front controls to access and display all of P3’s features, including: output voltage, battery, output current, and brake. A red flashing alert is displayed in case of no trailer brakes and the boost feature allows you to set different levels of customized braking to suit your trailer, tow vehicle, and terrain. It also boasts two Plug-N-Play Ports.

With five storable settings for different driver or trailer braking preferences, the P3 is easy to set up, while the snap-in-mounting allows you to easily remove and store your unit outside of your vehicle when it won’t be in use. The only disadvantage with this excellent trailer brake controller is that instructions on where and how to best place it inside your vehicle could be improved.

All in all, if you are looking for a highly reliable, practical trailer brake controller that is technologically advanced, yet easy to use, and reasonably priced, the P3 is going to be the best overall trailer brake controller on the market for you.

CURT 51180 Echo Mobile Electric Trailer Brake Controller

CURT Echo Mobile Electric Trailer Brake Controller

The 51180 Echo Mobile Electric Trailer Brake Controller by towing specialists Curt allows you to control all of your trailer brake settings directly from your smartphone – ideal if you frequently change vehicles or just don’t want to have to install a unit inside of your tow truck.

No tools are required, thanks to this model’s plug-and-play installation. The triple axis, motion-sensing accelerometer connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth. In the unit’s app, you are able to create multiple driver and trailer profiles for exceptional ease of use. If for some reason Bluetooth becomes unavailable, your trailer brakes revert to using the most recently programmed setting so your brakes remain fully operational.

Electric over hydraulic brake compatible, this smart trailer brake controller can also be used with ABS and cruise control activated. Easy to use and transfer from one vehicle to another, the main flaw in this otherwise exceptional trailer brake controller is that the rubber strap connecting the accelerometer to your vehicle is not infallible and may result in your controller falling from your vehicle and your trailer braking system rendered inactive.

Zip ties and duct tape can help provide extra security, although for the price of the Echo Mobile , a more professional, permanent solution should be available.

Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control

Tekonsha Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control

If you usually haul the same trailer or ones with similar weights, save yourself some money on the more expensive versions and opt for our value choice – the 90160 Primus IQ by Tekonsha . The proportional trailer brake controller works with trailers with one to three axles and is completely self-leveling, unlike older versions.

Thanks to its new Boost feature, you have the option to increase your trailer’s braking when towing heavier RV trailers. When backing into tough spots, you can benefit from this unit working proportionally in reverse for complete security. The digital LED readout displays a self-diagnostic gesture should an issue occur, so you’ll be immediately alerted.

Complete with a Plug-N-Play port for two-plug adapters and a snap-in dash mourning clip for easy removal when not in use, this model gives you all the essential features you really need for safely towing your travel trailer at a much lower price than the competition.

The only slight drawback is that it can be a little tricky to finely tune the recessed adjustment wheel, however, this is not a major issue by any means. All in all, the Tekonsha is a great value for money choice.

Reese Towpower 8508211 Brake Control

Reese Towpower 8508211 Brake Control

Looking for the best trailer brake controller on a budget? The Brake-Evn Trailer Brake Controller by Reece Towpower is an excellent, highly affordable option that works well with both heavy and light travel trailers.

Its advanced proportional braking system matches the pressure you apply to your tow truck brakes, for smoother, secure stopping that can even help to extend the life of your tow vehicle brakes.

This controller can handle up to four axles and comes with a handy Boost feature to increase your stopping power – ideal when towing heavy fifth wheels. Installation is very simple provided you pick up the correct factory harness for your vehicle to get a simple plug-in install. Aside from its low purchase price, one of the main advantages of this unit is its compact, non-obtrusive design and clear LED diagnostics.

Simply press the unit’s buttons to make easy braking adjustments. Just note that the location of the controller’s buttons on the top of the unit will limit your placement options inside your vehicle, although no leveling is required.

On the whole, you’ll struggle to find a better trailer brake controller at such a low price, making the Brake-Evn model by Reese Towpower an excellent model for any RVers on a tight budget.

Redarc Tow-Pro Elite V2 Electric Brake Controller

Redarc Tow-Pro Elite V2 Electric Brake Controller

Don’t want to mess up your vehicle’s dash with an unsightly boxy unit that stands out like a sore thumb? The Redarc Tow-Pro Elite V2 has been specially designed to be installed with the main unit out of sight, leaving you with a discreet control knob that blends seamlessly into almost every dash.

The Tow-Pro V2 provides you with the choice of two types of braking – proportional to match your tow truck on the highway or user-controlled mode to allow you to set your braking level, a preferred choice if you are off-roading. Choose between the two modes to suit your vehicle and terrain for a safer drive towing your RV.

Thanks to its three-axis accelerometer, you are free to mount the main unit in any orientation with accurate brake level sensing. Unfortunately, there is no mounting hardware included with the V2, although you won’t have to spend a lot extra, it is an inconvenience having to go out and shop for appropriate screws.

Suitable for use with electric and electric over hydraulic trailer braking systems, the Tow-Pro Elite V2 provides secure, reliable RV trailer braking without requiring you to install a bulky controller up front.

CURT 51110 Venturer Electric Trailer Brake Controller

CURT Venturer Electric Trailer Brake Controller

The Venturer electric trailer brake controller is a basic unit that uses a time-delay braking system for safe stopping, increasing your trailer’s brake pressure as you depress your tow vehicle’s brake pedal. This makes it a good purchase for lightweight single or double axle camping trailers, although it has the capacity to support models with up to three axles.

Easy to use, the Venturer has a simple ramp-up LED brake monitoring system. Compatible with cruise control, anti-lock brakes, and low voltage systems, it’s suitable for use with just about any standard travel trailer.

The manual brake slider button allows you to adjust your braking intensity, with an adjustable power toggle and ramp time. However, the controls are very sensitive which can make for difficult fine-tuning and you may have to spend a considerable amount of time before you’re happy with the results.

Versatile, you can mount it in your ride at any angle and it comes complete with an adjustable mounting bracket. Purchase Curt’s quick-plug harness that matches your vehicle’s configuration for a quick and easy setup with no leveling required.

On the whole, a good basic time delay trailer brake controller that is well worth the money.

CURT 51170 Spectrum Original Integrated Electric Trailer Brake Controller

CURT Integrated Electric Trailer Brake Controller

The Curt Spectrum Original Electric Trailer Brake Controller is a popular choice with RVers looking for an integrated trailer brake controller. Thanks to its one to four axle capacity, it is capable of operating between two to eight trailer brakes simultaneously, making it suitable for pretty much all RV trailer types.

With the main unit installed out of sight, you have the option of either drill or surface adhesive mounting the OEM-style rotary user interface. With its 10 tri-color LEDs, you can control all of your trailer brake settings at the twist of a knob and touch of a button. It also benefits from low-voltage and trailer disconnect indicators for extra safety, plus an easily accessible manual override which is really useful should your braking conditions change.

The triple-axis motion-sensing accelerometer ensures highly responsive, yet smooth stops. Compatible with ABS, cruise control, and electric over hydraulic, this trailer brake controller boasts high compatibility and stylish good looks.

While you can get plug-and-play installation by investing in a Curt vehicle-specific harness, the tiny wire connections are very fragile, so make sure that you are armed with plenty of patience before you attempt to install. Full review .

Compare the Best Trailer Brake Controllers

Curt Echo Mobile Electric Trailer Brake Compare

Buyer’s Guide to Buying the Best Trailer Brake Controller

To make sure that you choose the best trailer brake controller for your rig, check out our comprehensive buyer’s guide and find out just what you need to keep an eye out for.

Trailer brake controllers are generally fairly inexpensive. Low cost trailer brake controllers can be purchased for under $75 and are often time-delay models or basic proportional versions. Expect to spend between $100-$250 to pick up a premium model with extra features, such as a Boost mode and self-leveling main units.

Spending more generally equates to a better looking unit that is less obstructive on your dash. In terms of performance, there is not really that much difference between mid-range and high-priced models, however, you may find that more expensive versions are easier to adjust and provide enhanced usability.

Size and Weight of Your Towable

The larger and heavier your towable, the more reactive your trailer brake controller will need to be. For large trailers make sure that your brake controller has enough capacity to operate all of your trailer brakes simultaneously.

While small, lightweight trailers can get by with basic time-delay brake controllers, for large RV trailers, you’ll want a proportional trailer brake controller that is easy to adjust with a boost function for downhill sections and changes in the weather.

The Capability of Your Vehicle

It is important that your vehicle has sufficient capacity to tow your trailer, regardless of the installation of a trailer brake controller. Exceeding your vehicle’s maximum tow capacity is extremely dangerous, so make sure that you know your vehicle’s limits.

If your trailer weighs over 40% of your tow vehicle’s weight, you will definitely need to ensure that you have a brake controller fitted to prevent your trailer from swerving and extending your breaking time and distances, potentially causing a major accident.

Easy to Use

While most trailer brake controllers take a little while for you to perfect your setting and get used to the user interface it’s important that your trailer brake controller is easy to use. If you suddenly need to boost your braking power in an emergency situation, you’ll want to be able to do so at the touch of a button.

While some RVers find the traditional push-button models with a small LCD to be the easiest to use, others prefer connected versions they can adjust on their smartphone. It all comes down to your personal preferences and what you find to be the most useful.

As your trailer brake controller uses electricity from your tow vehicle to apply power to your trailer brakes, it is important that your unit’s voltage matches that of your vehicle, or else your brake controller may not work correctly. Most units are either 12V or 24V, with some models able to run on either voltage. Make sure you verify before purchasing.

Number of Axles

Your trailer brake controller will have a maximum number of brakes that it can simultaneously operate. This can be given as the individual number of brakes or, more commonly, the number of axles.

Most models have a capacity between one and three axles or one and four axles which equates to between two to six or two to eight brakes. It goes without saying that your controller should have sufficient capacity to operate all of your trailer’s brakes.

Most displays involve LEDs of some kind, either figures to display your braking power and error codes, or different colored LEDs to adjust intensity. Much like ease of use, it all depends on your personal preferences which type of display you go for.

A minimalist colored LED display suits some users, whereas other RVers prefer a more traditional display or no display at all and to use their connected smartphone to access all of their trailer braking information and settings.

Your trailer brake controller will allow you to adjust various settings including braking intensity. It may or may not have a boost feature to quickly override your settings for a more forceful brake. Other settings may include the following:

  • Braking type – proportional or user-controlled.
  • Electric or electric over hydraulic settings.
  • Adjustable ramp time.
  • Self-diagnostic settings.
  • Adjustable braking intensity.

Controller Size

Unless you are thinking of purchasing a connected trailer brake controller to use via your smartphone, you’ll need to consider what size controller you want to fit on your dashboard.

Basic, older units are more bulky and may require you to drill holes into your dashboard. Newer, slimline models often have a larger main unit that is installed out of sight with a small, integrated control knob that sits on your dashboard.

Smaller models give you more placement options, although some RVers prefer more traditional-sized models with a display and push buttons.

Electric and Hydraulic Braking

Check what type of braking system your trailer has before choosing your controller. The best trailer brake controllers are able to operate both electric braking systems and electric and hydraulic ones. You will be able to switch over from one type of braking to the other in your model’s settings.

Tire Safety

Make sure that you take time to experiment with your new trailer brake controller to find the optimum settings for your tow truck and RV trailer.

Test your brakes and set the maximum braking power, then try it out in a safe space. Then test out your sensitivity levels until you are happy with your trailer brake reaction to when you hit your tow vehicle’s brakes.

Taking the time to optimize your trailer controller setting will improve your trailer’s tire safety, for smooth stops rather than jerky, sudden movements that when applied repeatedly could damage your tires.

Different Types of Trailer Brake Controller

When choosing the best trailer brake controller for your RV you’ll have to decide whether you want a proportional controller or a time-delayed controller. Here’s what you need to know.

Proportional Controller

Proportional controllers are considered to be the best type of trailer brake controller as they provide smoother stops and more efficient braking. They do, however, cost more than time-delay models.

Proportional controllers use accelerometers to sense changes to your vehicle’s speed. When you hit your brakes, the controller applies a similar amount of power to your trailer’s brakes in proportion to your vehicle’s momentum.

For example, if you brake on an incline, your controller will apply less power to your trailer brakes as you’ll be going slower, than it would on a decline where you would be moving more quickly.

Time-Delayed Controller

Less precise and not as smooth as proportional controllers, time-delayed versions are more basic in their operation.

When you press on your tow truck brake pedal your controller immediately activates your trailer’s brakes applying an increasing amount of pressure. This amount can be adjusted in your controller’s settings to better suit your trailer and driving style.

Installation Guide for a Trailer Brake Controller

Preparation : Before starting the installation process, read the instructions provided by the manufacturer of your brake controller thoroughly. Gather all the necessary tools, which may include a screwdriver, wire stripper, pliers, and possibly a drill. Also, ensure that your vehicle is parked on a flat and stable surface.

Locate Connector Under Dash : Most modern vehicles come with a built-in connector under the dash for installing a brake controller. This connector is usually located near the steering column. If your vehicle doesn’t have one, you may need a universal wiring harness, which can be spliced into the vehicle’s wiring system.

Mount the Controller : The brake controller needs to be mounted in a location that’s easily accessible and visible while driving. It should be within easy reach but not obstructing any vehicle controls. Most controllers are designed to be mounted at a specific angle, typically between -20 and 70 degrees in relation to the direction of travel, so it’s critical to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. You may need to drill holes to mount the bracket securely, but some models come with adhesive backing that doesn’t require drilling.

Connect the Wiring : Connect the wiring harness that came with the controller to the connector under the dash. This is usually a straightforward process, as the connectors are designed to fit together. If your vehicle doesn’t have a built-in connector, you’ll need to splice the wires together. This involves connecting the wires of the same color from the controller to the wiring harness, and using a wire stripper and pliers to twist and secure the connections.

Check the Ground Connection : One of the most common issues with brake controller installations is a poor ground connection. Make sure the ground wire (usually white) is connected to a clean, bare metal surface.

Connect to the Trailer Plug : The other end of the wiring harness needs to be connected to the trailer plug. This plug is usually located at the rear of the vehicle and is what connects the vehicle’s electrical system to the trailer’s brakes.

Calibrate the Controller : Once everything is installed, you’ll need to calibrate the controller. This usually involves setting the power level and sensitivity to match the weight and brake strength of your trailer. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the calibration process for your specific model.

Test the System : Finally, connect your trailer and test the system to ensure everything is working properly. This should involve checking the brake controller’s display (if it has one) for any error messages, and performing a test drive at a low speed in a safe location to confirm the trailer brakes are working as expected.

Remember, safety should always be your top priority when installing a trailer brake controller. If you’re not comfortable with any part of the process, consider hiring a professional to do the installation for you.

Top Trailer Brake Controllers Video

Maintenance Tips for a Trailer Brake Controller

Regular Inspection : Make a habit of inspecting your brake controller and its connections regularly. Look for any signs of wear, damage, or loose connections. Regularly checking the condition of your brake controller can help detect any potential issues early, and prevent more serious problems down the line.

Cleaning : Keep the brake controller and its display clean. Dust, dirt, and other debris can affect the controller’s performance and lead to inaccurate readings or malfunctions. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe the controller and its display. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the controller’s components.

Ensure Secure Connections : Over time, connections can become loose due to the vibration from driving. Regularly check to ensure that all connections are secure. This includes the connection between the controller and its wiring harness, as well as the connection between the wiring harness and the vehicle’s electrical system.

Check Wiring and Cables : Look out for any signs of fraying, damage, or corrosion on the wires and cables. If you notice any damage, it’s important to address it promptly to prevent potential short circuits or malfunctions.

Monitor Controller Performance : Be aware of any changes in how your brake controller performs. If you notice that the brakes are less responsive than usual, or if the controller’s display shows error messages, these could be signs that the controller needs maintenance.

Stay Updated with Software : If your brake controller uses software or firmware, make sure it’s always up to date. Manufacturers may release updates that fix bugs, improve performance, or add new features.

Professional Inspection : Consider having your brake controller professionally inspected periodically, especially if you tow frequently or over long distances. A professional can perform a thorough inspection and promptly address any issues.

Follow Manufacturer’s Guidelines : Always follow the maintenance guidelines provided by the brake controller’s manufacturer. They will provide the most accurate and specific information for your model.

Remember, maintaining your trailer brake controller not only ensures it operates effectively but also extends its lifespan. If you encounter any issues you’re unsure about, don’t hesitate to consult a professional.

Legislation and Compliance for Trailer Brake Controllers

Understanding the Law : In many countries, including the United States, it’s a legal requirement to have a functioning brake system on a towed trailer that exceeds a certain weight limit. This is not only for the safety of the vehicle operator but also for other drivers on the road.

Weight Regulations : In the United States, trailers with a gross weight of 3,000 pounds or more are required by federal law to have brakes on all wheels. However, state laws can vary, with some states requiring brakes for trailers weighing 1,500 pounds or more. Always check the specific laws in your state or any states you plan to travel through.

Breakaway System Requirements : In addition to brakes, most states also require trailers to be equipped with a breakaway system if they exceed a certain weight. A breakaway system automatically applies the trailer’s brakes if it becomes disconnected from the towing vehicle.

Controller Regulations : While the laws requiring brakes on trailers are quite clear, the laws specifically related to brake controllers are often less so. While a brake controller is the most common way to meet the requirement for a functioning brake system on a trailer, there may be other legally acceptable methods. Again, it’s important to check the laws in your specific area.

International Travel : If you’re planning to tow your trailer across international borders, be aware that the laws can change. Before you go, make sure to research the towing and brake controller laws in the countries you plan to visit.

Compliance Certifications : When purchasing a trailer brake controller, look for one that has been certified as compliant with relevant safety standards. This certification is usually displayed on the product packaging or included in the product description.

Liability Considerations : Finally, remember that failure to comply with these laws can result in not just fines, but also increased liability in the event of an accident. If your trailer’s brakes fail to operate properly because you didn’t have a functioning brake controller, you could be held responsible for any resulting damage or injuries.

Remember, safety should always be the top priority when towing a trailer. Always ensure your equipment is in good working order and compliant with all relevant laws and regulations.

Case Studies and User Experiences with Trailer Brake Controllers

The Cross-Country RVer : Sarah, an avid RVer, made a cross-country trip from New York to California with her travel trailer. She used the Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake Control. She found the installation process to be straightforward with the help of the user manual. The brake controller made her journey safer and more comfortable, as she was able to adjust the brake intensity based on the road conditions and traffic. The digital display was very helpful in keeping track of the brake settings and ensuring everything was functioning correctly.

The Small Business Owner : John, a small business owner, frequently uses his trailer for transporting goods. He installed the CURT 51180 Echo Mobile Electric Trailer Brake Controller in his truck. The feature he appreciated the most was the ability to control and monitor the trailer brakes via a smartphone app, which allowed him to make adjustments on the fly without needing to stop and manually adjust the controller.

The Weekend Adventurer : Emily and her family love going on weekend camping trips with their trailer. They chose the Reese Towpower 8508211 Brake Control due to its affordability and ease of use. Emily appreciated the smooth braking response, and the compact design didn’t clutter up the dashboard of their SUV. Emily was impressed by the controller’s reliability and performance during their trips.

The Tech-Savvy User : Alex, a tech-savvy user, preferred the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite V2 Electric Brake Controller for its advanced technology. The controller offered him proportional braking, which he found to be very efficient and responsive, especially on hilly terrain. The controller’s small remote head was easy to install and didn’t interfere with the vehicle’s interior design.

These case studies highlight the benefits of using a trailer brake controller and how they can enhance the towing experience based on individual needs and preferences. It’s important to remember that what works best for one person may not necessarily be the best for another, so it’s crucial to consider personal requirements when choosing a trailer brake controller.

Future Trends in Trailer Brake Controllers

Integration with Vehicle’s System : As vehicles become smarter, we can expect to see more integration between the vehicle’s system and the trailer brake controller. This could mean that future controllers are built directly into the vehicle, or that they can communicate more effectively with the vehicle’s onboard computer systems.

Smartphone Control : We’ve already seen some brake controllers that can be controlled via a smartphone app. This trend is likely to continue, with more manufacturers offering this feature. The apps could also become more sophisticated, offering features like brake performance data logging, customizable profiles for different trailers, and real-time alerts for potential problems.

Advanced Safety Features : Future trailer brake controllers could include more advanced safety features. This could include things like predictive braking, where the controller uses data from the vehicle (like speed and acceleration) and possibly even external data (like GPS and traffic information) to optimize brake performance.

Internet of Things (IoT) Connectivity : With the rise of the IoT, brake controllers could become more connected. This could allow for remote monitoring and control, as well as integration with other smart devices. For example, a smart home system could receive a notification when the trailer is successfully connected to the vehicle.

Sustainability : As with many other technologies, there could be a greater focus on sustainability in the development of future trailer brake controllers. This could include things like more energy-efficient designs, use of recycled or eco-friendly materials, and even solar-powered controllers.

Autonomous Towing Capabilities : As autonomous vehicles become more common, we might see development in the field of autonomous towing. This would require significant advancements in trailer brake controllers, which would need to communicate seamlessly with the autonomous vehicle systems.

Adoption of New Standards : As technology advances, we can expect new standards to be adopted in the manufacture and operation of trailer brake controllers. These new standards would aim to improve safety, efficiency, and ease of use.

While these trends offer exciting possibilities for the future of trailer brake controllers, they also present new challenges. As these technologies become more complex, there will be a greater need for user education and potentially more regulatory oversight to ensure safety. It’s an exciting field, and one that’s sure to see a lot of change in the coming years.

Environmental Considerations for Trailer Brake Controllers

Energy Efficiency : Trailer brake controllers, particularly those with advanced features and displays, consume energy. While this consumption is typically not high, choosing a controller that is energy-efficient can help minimize your overall vehicle energy use and reduce your carbon footprint.

Sustainable Manufacturing : The production process of electronic devices, including brake controllers, can have a significant environmental impact. Consider manufacturers that are committed to reducing their environmental impact through responsible sourcing of materials, energy-efficient production processes, and minimal use of harmful chemicals.

Waste Reduction : Consider the product’s packaging when purchasing a brake controller. Excessive packaging, particularly plastic, contributes to environmental waste. Some manufacturers are committed to reducing packaging or using recycled/recyclable materials.

Product Lifespan : A durable, long-lasting brake controller is more environmentally friendly than one that needs to be replaced frequently. Regular maintenance can also extend the lifespan of a brake controller, reducing the need for replacement.

End of Life Disposal : Electronic waste is a significant environmental issue. When your brake controller eventually reaches the end of its life, consider how to dispose of it responsibly. Many electronic devices contain components that can be harmful if not disposed of properly. Look for electronics recycling programs in your area.

Eco-Friendly Innovations : Keep an eye out for innovations that could make brake controllers more environmentally friendly. For instance, some manufacturers might develop solar-powered or energy-efficient controllers, or those made from more sustainable materials.

While a trailer brake controller is just one small part of your vehicle, every effort to make environmentally-friendly choices can add up and contribute to a more sustainable world. By considering these factors, you can ensure that your brake controller not only keeps you safe on the road but also minimizes harm to the environment.

Manufacturer Profiles for Trailer Brake Controllers

Tekonsha : Tekonsha is a well-known name in the world of towing and trailer equipment. They’ve been in the business for over 50 years and have a reputation for quality and reliability. Tekonsha offers a range of brake controllers, including the popular P3 and Primus IQ models. Their products are known for their advanced proportional braking technology, user-friendly features, and durability.

CURT : CURT is a leading manufacturer of towing products in the USA. Their product range includes a variety of brake controllers, such as the Echo Mobile and Spectrum Original models. They are recognized for their innovative designs, such as smartphone-controlled brake controllers, and their commitment to safety and quality.

Reese Towpower : Reese Towpower has been a trusted name in the towing industry for over 60 years. They offer a wide range of products, including the Brake Control series of brake controllers. Reese Towpower products are known for their affordable pricing, reliable performance, and easy installation.

Redarc : Redarc is an Australian company that has been manufacturing electronic vehicle products for over 40 years. Their Tow-Pro Elite V2 Electric Brake Controller is a popular model known for its advanced technology and compact design. Redarc is recognized for their innovative designs, high-quality products, and commitment to customer satisfaction.

Each of these manufacturers has their own strengths and unique offerings. Choosing between them depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. It’s always a good idea to research and compare several options before making a decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Navigating the world of trailer brake controllers can be a daunting task, especially for RV enthusiasts looking to ensure a safe and reliable towing experience. We understand that you may have several questions about these essential devices and their compatibility with your RV and towing vehicle. In this FAQ section, we aim to address some of the most commonly asked questions to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

From understanding the basics of trailer brake controllers to selecting the right type for your specific needs, we’ll cover a range of topics to help you gain clarity and confidence. Whether you’re a seasoned RV owner or a novice to the world of towing, our goal is to provide you with valuable insights into the functionality, installation, compatibility, and features of trailer brake controllers.

If you’re curious about the different types of trailer brake controllers available and how they work, we’ll break down the distinctions between time-delayed, proportional, and inertial controllers. We’ll also guide you in choosing the most suitable controller for your RV, taking into account factors such as towing conditions, trailer weight, and personal preferences.

Installation is another crucial aspect we’ll delve into, offering guidance on how to properly install a trailer brake controller or when it’s best to seek professional assistance. Additionally, we’ll address common concerns regarding compatibility with various RVs and towing vehicles, as well as the transferability of controllers between multiple vehicles.

Lastly, we’ll highlight important features to consider when selecting a trailer brake controller, empowering you to make an educated decision. By understanding the significance of braking sensitivity adjustment, display options, diagnostic alerts, and other features, you’ll be better equipped to choose a controller that suits your towing requirements and preferences.

We hope that this FAQ section will provide the answers you seek and help you navigate the world of trailer brake controllers with confidence. Remember, your safety and the smooth operation of your RV depend on selecting the right controller and ensuring proper installation. So, let’s dive in and address your most pressing questions!

What is a trailer brake controller?

A trailer brake controller is an electronic device that connects to your towing vehicle and controls the brakes on your trailer. It sends signals to the trailer’s braking system, allowing you to adjust the trailer’s braking intensity based on various factors such as road conditions, trailer weight, and towing vehicle speed.

Why do I need a trailer brake controller?

A trailer brake controller is essential for safe towing, especially when hauling heavy loads or traveling on steep terrain. It enables you to have better control over your trailer’s braking, reducing the risk of accidents, excessive wear on the towing vehicle’s brakes, and providing smoother braking performance.

How does a trailer brake controller work?

A trailer brake controller uses a signal from the towing vehicle’s brake pedal or inertia sensors to activate the trailer’s brakes. It applies the right amount of braking power to the trailer’s wheels, synchronizing its deceleration with the towing vehicle. This coordination ensures that both vehicles slow down uniformly and improves stability while braking.

What types of trailer brake controllers are available?

There are primarily three types of trailer brake controllers: time-delayed controllers, proportional controllers, and inertial controllers. Time-delayed controllers offer preset braking power and apply the same intensity regardless of the towing vehicle’s braking force. Proportional controllers, on the other hand, sense the vehicle’s deceleration and apply the trailer brakes proportionally. Inertial controllers utilize accelerometers to detect the motion and adjust braking accordingly.

Which type of trailer brake controller is best for my RV?

The best type of trailer brake controller for your RV depends on your specific towing needs. Proportional controllers are generally considered the most advanced and provide smoother and more precise braking. They are highly recommended for larger trailers or when towing in varied conditions. However, if you have a smaller trailer or require simplicity and affordability, a time-delayed controller may suffice.

How do I install a trailer brake controller?

Trailer brake controller installation typically involves connecting the controller to the towing vehicle’s electrical system and mounting it within reach of the driver. Detailed installation instructions are usually provided with the controller. However, if you’re unsure or uncomfortable with electrical connections, it’s best to have a professional installer handle the job to ensure proper wiring and functionality.

Are trailer brake controllers compatible with all RVs and towing vehicles?

Trailer brake controllers are compatible with most RVs and towing vehicles that have a built-in brake system. However, it’s essential to check the compatibility of the brake controller with your specific RV and towing vehicle before making a purchase. Manufacturers typically provide a list of compatible models or offer compatibility information on their websites.

Can I use a trailer brake controller on multiple towing vehicles?

In most cases, trailer brake controllers are transferable between multiple towing vehicles. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the controller’s wiring and connector match the electrical system of the towing vehicle. Some controllers may require additional adapters or wiring harnesses for compatibility with different vehicles.

What features should I consider when choosing a trailer brake controller?

When selecting a trailer brake controller, consider features such as braking sensitivity adjustment, digital or analog display, diagnostic alerts, multiple axle support, and ease of use. Some advanced controllers offer wireless connectivity, smartphone integration, and customizable settings. Your choice should be based on your specific towing requirements and personal preferences.

Can I install a trailer brake controller myself?

Trailer brake controller installation can be a DIY project for those with basic electrical knowledge and experience. However, if you’re uncertain about the installation process or want to ensure optimal functionality and safety, it’s advisable to consult a professional installer. They can provide expert guidance and perform the installation correctly.

Remember, trailer brake controllers are an essential component of safe towing, so choose a reliable and suitable controller for your RV and towing setup. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines for proper installation and operation.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best trailer brake controller is no mean feat with so many excellent models to choose from.

Our advice, first of all focus on your trailer’s specifics, then choose an interface and mounting style that suits your preferences and tow vehicle. Whatever style of trailer brake controller you are looking for, you’re sure to find the best controller for your trailer brakes in our top-rated selection.

If simplicity combined with high performance are your main priorities, you should definitely take a closer look at our overall favorite – the Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electric Trailer Brake Control.

A hugely popular model, the P3 has enough capacity for up to four axles and has five storable settings for different trailers or driver preferences. With its easy-to-read LCD and “No Trailer Brakes” warning alert, this reliable brake controller is one of the very best on the market.

Alternatively, if you are more technology orientated, the Curt Echo makes an excellent choice allowing you to control your trailer braking preferences via an application on your smartphone not only does this make personalizing your braking system much easier, it also means you won’t have to clutter up your dash with an extra box or dial.

If you are on a tight budget, you may want to get yourself one of Reece Towpower’s highly affordable Brake-Evn Trailer Brake Controllers. Thanks to its compact, unobtrusive design with LED diagnostics and push button controls for easy adjustments, the Brake-Evn with its proportional braking system makes an excellent buy.

About The Author

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Karan Riley

RV Pioneers

Best Trailer Brake Controller for RV and Campers

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You’ve finally bought that brand new camper trailer you’ve had your eye on for years. You’ve bought your towing mirrors, your hitch lock, and your trailer hitch ball mount, and now you’re all set to hit the road.

Yet before you put your foot on the gas, it’s important to note that there’s one more vital piece of equipment that you simply can’t leave home without:

A trailer brake controller.

But first, here’s my bottom line up front summary of the best RV trailer brake controllers:

  • Tekonsha 90195 : Best Overall Trailer Brake
  • P3 Tekonsha 90885 Prodigy P2 : Best LCD Display Trailer Brake
  • Reese Towpower : Best Time Delayed Trailer Brake
  • Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ
  • Tekonsha 90195 P3  

An essential part of your towing arsenal, investing in the best camper trailer brake controller your budget will allow will ultimately prove invaluable in protecting the safety of you, your loved ones, and your vehicle.

Not that choosing the right one is always an easy task for those new to the RV lifestyle . With all kinds of new jargon and pieces of technology to familiarise yourself with, simply trying to get your head around the myriad of options can be frustrating enough to put you off the whole idea altogether.

Here’s the good news:

Choosing a quality brake controller doesn’t have to be so confusing.

travel trailer brake controller reviews

Today, we take an in-depth look at some of the best camper trailer brake controllers on the market this year, exploring the pros and cons of each and explaining everything you need to know about the key features and technical details of the latest models.

That’s not all.

We’ll also answer your most burning questions about brake controllers to help you make the most informed decision possible when it comes to choosing an option that’s right for you, your vehicle, and your budget.

Before we really dive deep into all of that, let’s tackle the one question that’s perhaps most on your mind if you’re about to tow a camper trailer for the first time.

What is a camper trailer brake controller?

In its most sensitive, a trailer brake controller does exactly what you’d imagine it does:

It gives you the ability to control the brake pads on your trailer, ultimately making it much easier, and safer to drive while towing one.

If you’ve ever towed a trailer before, you’ll know what a big difference it can make to your driving, especially when it comes to slowing down and stopping.

All of that extra weight behind you forces you to put a little more muscle into it, pressing harder on the brakes in order to stop safely and in plenty of time.

A trailer brake controller looks to alleviate this problem by connecting your trailer’s brakes to the main brakes in your vehicle so that you ultimately end up controlling the former with the latter.

This means that you end up needing to apply less force to your vehicle’s brakes, creating a smoother and safer journey all round.

Who needs a brake controller?

travel trailer brake controller reviews

Suffice to say, brake pad controllers aren’t necessary for smaller, lightweight trailers.

For example, if you’re hitching a small tow trailer to the back of your RV, that’s not going to make a huge amount of difference and you’ll likely get by without one.

If, however, you’re towing anything like one of the larger-scale teardrop trailer or perhaps something even bigger, then a brake controller is going to prove to be an essential part of your arsenal.

As a general rule, anything you tow that is over 1650 pounds (750 kg) should have brakes and a brake controller installed.

Why bother with a trailer brake controller?

So far, we like to think we’ve made a compelling argument for why camper trailer brake controllers are such a good idea but look, we get it:

When you start checking out the price of the average controller, it can be all too tempting to try and go it alone.

Yes, you know it will your life more difficult while you’re out on the road, but isn’t that a small price to pay if it saves you money that you could better spend on more exciting RV accessories ?

No, it isn’t. In fact, the decision to try and tow your camper trailer without a brake controller installed could well end up costing you dearly.

For one thing, there’s the fact that trailer brake controllers are a legal requirement in an increasing number of US states . So, unless you’re prepared to run foul of the law, it pays to get one for yourself.

Still, let’s say you live in one of the few states that haven’t yet issued any kind of regulation on the subject.

Why should you even bother looking at some of the best brake controllers out there, let alone buying one?

There are two key answers to this question.

travel trailer brake controller reviews

First of all, the initial investment you make in a brake controller could well end up saving you hundreds, if not thousands of dollars further down the line.

All that added pressure you need to put on your vehicle’s brakes in order to account for the extra weight of your camper trailer will eventually cause all kinds of wear and tear to your brakes . Naturally, that will only lead to countless trips to the auto shop for a whole raft of expensive repairs.

Invest in a brake controller for your camper trailer, and you’re ultimately saving yourself all of those trips and all of that money.

The second and more important reason is that a brake controller is an invaluable safety feature for anyone towing a sizeable camper trailer.

Think about it:

Even if you work your vehicle’s brakes extra hard in order to account for the trailer, that trailer will, at least temporarily, keep moving at the same velocity, increasing the risk that it slams into the back of your vehicle or possibly even jackknifes.

That’s not to mention the fact that all that additional wear and tear on your breaks could potentially make it harder to brake in an emergency even if you don’t have your trailer hitched up at the time.

What are the different types of brake controllers?

There are essentially two different types of controller, proportional controllers, and time-delayed controllers, both of which operate very differently.

Let’s look at each one in turn.

Time-delayed brake controllers

travel trailer brake controller reviews

With a time-delayed controller, you set a predetermined amount of pressure to be applied to your trailer brakes whenever you press on the brakes in your vehicle.

The amount of pressure you select, along with the length of the time delay between you pressing your vehicle’s brakes and the trailer’s brakes being activated is dependent not only on the weight of your camper trailer itself but also on road conditions and several other critical factors.

Pros time-delayed controllers

  • Less expensive than proportional models
  • Greater number of customizable options
  • Easy to install

Cons of time-delayed controllers

  • More complicated to set-up and configure after installing
  • Causes more wear-and-tear to breaks due to the single pressure setting.

Proportional controllers

If setting everything manually sounds like a pain, you may prefer a proportional controller, which uses a sensor to identify how much pressure should be applied to the trailer brakes at any given moment.

When you apply the brakes in your vehicle, a complex braking system looks at the current speed of the trailer and monitors external factors, then produces precise calculations to ensure that the appropriate amount of force is applied to the trailer brakes at exactly the right moment.

Pros of proportional controllers

  • Easier to configure, with minimal post-installation set-up needed
  • Smoother breaking

Cons of proportional controllers

More expensive than time-delay models

To help you choose the right option for you, we’ll look at both time-delayed and proportional models in our guide to the best trailer camper brake controllers currently on the market.

5 Best Camper Trailer Brake Controller Options

Below, we’ll take an in-depth look at what our experts consider to be the very best brake controllers available, but if you don’t have time to read through those right now, here’s a brief overview of this year’s leading brands.

1: Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake control 

Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake Control | Amazon

Integrated Plug-N-Play port for 2-plug adapters and Snap-in mounting clip allows user to remove and store the control when not in use.

For over fifty years, Tekonsha has carved out an enviable reputation for themselves as the leading brand in towing safety.

While the company earns much acclaim for their electrical wiring and trailer brakes, it’s with their premium-brand of proportional brake controllers that the Michigan-based company truly shines.

Widely regarded as the very best that Tekonsha has to offer, the 90195 P3 epitomizes everything that experienced drivers love about their electronic trailer brake controllers.

First of all, it’s a plug-and-play device which not only makes it a breeze to install but also means it’s one of the most adaptable electronic brake controller around. Should you choose to upgrade your camper trailer at any time, you can simply take the 90195 P3 out of the old one and pop it into the new one.

Then there’s the LCD display which is both easy to read and contains a wealth of information including battery voltage, brake diagnostics and more.

Our favorite feature is the patented boost feature which can be activated at the click of a button and provides extra braking power if you find yourself towing a heavier load or heavier trailer than usual.

That said, we understand that for many drivers, one of the key selling points is the small, compact design, ensuring that it doesn’t take up too much room on your dashboard.

If there’s any criticism to be levied at the 90195 Tekonsha P3, it’s the price.

Easily one of the most expensive camper trailer brake controllers around, we’ve yet to see a new one for less than $100. Still, as with most things in life, you get what you pay for with this model and in our estimation, it’s truly worth every penny.

travel trailer brake controller reviews

Tekonsha 90195 P3 Specifications

  • Type: Proportional Brake Control
  • Display: LCD
  • Weight: 1.32 lbs
  • Number of Axles: 1 – 4
  • Amazon rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars

Pros of the Tekonsha 90195 P3

  • LCD display is very easy to read
  • Plug-and-play port allows for use on multiple trailers
  • Boost feature for heavier trailers.

Cons of the Tekonsha 90195 P3

  • Price – this is perhaps the most expensive controller on the market
  • More options than necessary for most average users.

2: Tekonsha 90885 Prodigy P2 Electronic Brake Control

Tekonsha 90885 Prodigy P2 Electronic Brake Control | Amazon

Prodigy P2 features reverse battery protection for both vehicle and breakaway. Designed to work with electronic over hydraulic brake systems.

The fact that our experts had a seriously tough time deciding which of Tekonsha’s brake controllers should be ranked number one in our list speaks volumes about their unparalleled levels of quality and functionality.

In the end, the 90195 P3 won out, but only just. The 90885 Prodigy P2 was close -and we mean very close- second.

Like the 90195, the Prodigy P2 is plug-and-play, making it effortless to install, though you’ll likely need to buy the appropriate wiring harness to match your vehicle.

It also includes Tekonsha’s acclaimed boost function and a large LCD display providing a host of real-time information.

We particularly like the accelerometer for detecting inertia which adds a greater level of precision when it comes to braking pressure.

Suitable for controlling up to four axles, the P2 braking system offers one of the smoothest and most efficient braking force experiences imaginable, though be warned that this isn’t well suited to trailers with hydraulic brakes

Tekonsha 90885 Prodigy P2 Specifications

  • Type: Proportional brake controller
  • Weight: 0.8 lbs
  • Number of axles: 1-4
  • Amazon rating: 4.8 out of five stars

Pros of the Tekonsha 90885 Prodigy P2

  • Boost feature for heavier trailers
  • Real-time problem reporting

Cons of the Tekonsha 90885 Prodigy P2

  • Not ideal for trailers with hydraulic brake systems
  • Expensive cost.

3: Reese Towpower 7437711 Pod Brake Control

Reese Towpower Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control | Amazon

This 100% solid-state electronic with a small compact design mounts in any direction, no leveling required. Pre-wired plug-and-play feature allows for quick and easy connection to 2-, 4-, 6- and 8- brake systems.

While proportional brake controllers are typically easier to use and offer much more efficient braking, they’re also pretty expensive. As such, some budget-conscious drivers prefer to go for time-delayed controllers, an option which does sacrifice a little in the way of efficiency but is generally much easier on the wallet.

Even still, saving money doesn’t have to mean you get an inferior-quality product.

As one of the best time-delayed brake controllers we’ve seen, the Reese Towpower 7437711 Pod Brake Control more than holds its own against any model on our list.

Though the fact that it only works on two axles may rule it out as an option for some drivers, it is otherwise a very useful piece of kit.

A highlight for us is the slide adjustment which enables you to easily move between the many pre-calibrated settings. Of course, you can also create your own settings if none of those are suitable, and a manual override option does come built-in.

Unlike most brake controllers, this pod-style model doesn’t come with an LCD display, but it does at least feature a red indicator brake light which -though basic- serves its purpose well.

One of the more versatile controllers on our list, the 7437711 works on just about any vehicle and comes with a durable, easy-mount chassis and all the mounting hardware (mounting clip, wiring, brake light) included.

Reese Towpower 7437711 Pod Specifications

  • Type: Time-delayed trailer brake control
  • Display: LED indicator light
  • Weight: 10.2 ounces
  • Number of axles: 1-2
  • Amazon rating: 4.3 out of five stars

Pros of the Reese Towpower 7437711 Pod

  • Works with both electric and hydraulic trailer brakes
  • Simple to install and use

Cons of the  Reese Towpower 7437711 Pod

  • Lack of adjustment settings
  • Doesn’t work with four-axle trailers

4: Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control

Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control | Amazon

Utilizes Plug-N-Play port for 2-plug adapters. Self-diagnostics features will illuminate LED readout when issues occur.

Yes, Tekonsha is at it again with another premium quality proportional brake controller.

Look, we really did consider other brands when making our decision. Yet while the likes of Curt TriFlex, Draw-Tite, and Hopkins all came close with products of their own, none of them could quite match Tekonsha when it comes to functionality, flexibility, and enhanced features.

OK, so the Tekonsha 90160 Primus may not be quite as feature-rich as its higher-ranked counterparts, but it does still offer a handy knob for making several different brake adjustments and a very useful self-diagnostic tool which confirms whether or not the brakes are in good working order as soon as you switch the device on.

The only major drawback for some users is that while the more expensive proportional controllers support eight brakes over four axles, the Primus only supports six brakes over three axles.

Otherwise, there’s very little to complain about.

So why opt for the 90160 over one of the other two Tekonsha models featured in our list?

The simple answer is this:

It’s much more affordable.

Typically retailing for around $60 – $70 less than our number-one ranked 90195 P3, this extremely well-built piece of kit is the ideal option for those who want all the same levels of quality construction, ease-of-use and efficient braking that you’d get from a top-of-the-line Tekonsha without paying top-of-the-line prices.

Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Specifications

  • Type: Proportional Brake Controller
  • Display: LED
  • Weight: 1 lbs
  • Number of axles: 1-3
  • Amazon rating: 4.7 out of five stars

Pros of the Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ

  • Small, compact design that doesn’t take up much dashboard space
  • Easy plug-and-play installation

Cons of the Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ

  • Only supports three axles
  • Fewer features than other models

5: Draw-Tite 5504 Activator IV Electronic Brake Control

Draw-Tite 5504 Activator IV Electronic Brake Control | Amazon

Illuminated LED output indicator and front display; view at almost any angle. Smooth and simple installation, Plug and Play feature allows quick and easy connection.

Last but certainly by no means least, we’d be remiss if we didn’t consider at least one other time-delayed controller.

This time, it’s the turn of Draw-Tite, whose 5504 Activator IV provides exceptional electronic brake control on trailers with up to four axles.

By far the biggest selling point is the ease and simplicity with which his one installs. Another plug-and-play device, the 5504 Activator IV takes no time at all to set up. It even comes with a series of pre-calibrated settings for applying different levels of force to your trailer brakes, meaning post-installation calibration takes hardly any time at all.

Perfectly suited as an entry-level brake controller for those new to towing a trailer, this very affordable time-delayed device does come with a wide-angle LED display offering lots of real-time diagnostic information on things like overload, open ground, and brake voltage, regardless of your tow vehicle.

Other than that, there isn’t much in the way of special features or fancy add-ons, that’s not what the Activator IV is all about.

This is a simple, no-frills piece of kit that does exactly what it’s designed to do, no more, no less.

The only real criticism with this one is the way that the 5504 Activator IV mounts to your vehicle.

We’ve read reports that this one simply isn’t compatible with some vehicles, while the biggest complaint among some users is the design.

Yes, this is small, compact and takes up barely any space, but since the buttons are positioned on top of the case rather than at the front or to the side, the only option is to mount it on top of the dashboard rather than underneath.

Still, if you’re happy with that and you’re looking for a quality brake controller at an affordable price, the 5504 Activator IV should at least be up for consideration.

Draw-Tite 5504 Activator IV Specifications

  • Type: Time-delayed
  • Weight: 0.8 lbs ounces
  • Amazon rating: 4.2 out of five stars

Pros of the Draw-Tite 5504 Activator IV

  • Affordable cost
  • Wide-angle LED display with lots of information
  • Plug-and-play capability means it’s very easy to install.

Cons of the Draw-Tite 5504 Activator IV

  • Dashboard mounting kit isn’t compatible with all vehicles
  • Can’t be mounted underneath the dash.

travel trailer brake controller reviews

So there you have it, a rundown of the five very best trailer brake controllers currently available.

Again, we’ll reiterate our point that the benefits of proportional controllers do far outweigh the excess costs. Not only are they incredibly easy to install, but they also require little if any post-installation set-up.

Rather than relying on a pre-calibrated setting in the way that time-delayed options do, proportional brake controllers instead use sensors to make real-time calculations about the amount of pressure needed for smooth braking.

This means that you can simply plug-in and set off on your journey instead of wasting lots of time making complicated calculations to get the right configuration for your trailer.

If you are going to look for a proportional style controller, then as our list easily attests to, Tekonsha is by far and away the best brand to look at, offering several premium quality options across a range of prices.

For our money, the Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake controller is incredibly hard to beat, but don’t rule out the Prodigy P2, or even the 90160 Primus IQ if pricing is an issue.

Speaking of pricing, what time-delayed options lack in effortless simplicity they more than make up for in low-cost affordability.

If you’re confident that you can manage braking on the road with a time-delayed model, then opting for either of the two devices on our list will save you money and keep you safe at the same time.

Frequently asked questions about camper trailer brake controllers

Finally, as promised, let’s address some of the more commonly asked questions that our readers have about camper trailer brake controllers.

travel trailer brake controller reviews

Throughout this guide, we’ve referred to most of our favorite models as being easy to install, and for the most part, that’s true. It’s rare to find a brake controller that doesn’t come with a fully functional mounting kit (including mounting bracket) which attaches effortlessly on the dashboard. In some cases, depending on the style of the controller itself, you may prefer to attach it underneath so that you can keep your dashboard clutter-free. The only difficult part is when it comes to wiring. More often than not, brake controllers come with standard wiring that you need to mesh together with your trailer’s wiring. This often an arduous and complicated task. That said, installing your controller doesn’t have to be such a chore. Most manufacturers will provide special wiring harnesses specific to a towing vehicle model. Though these cost extra, they’re well worth the investment to make installation that much faster and simpler.

travel trailer brake controller reviews

Further read:

  • The Ultimate Guide to RV Maintenance

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However, you can only prepare a meal, watch your favorite TV show or listen to music in your RV if its electrical system is functioning properly. Running out of electricity while you’re on a vacation can cause all sorts of trouble, especially if you cannot get professional help easily.

If you’re having problems with your RV’s electrical system, the converter is one of the first things you need to check. So in this article, we are going to show you how to tell if an RV converter is bad.

Why is the RV converter so important? 

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travel trailer brake controller reviews

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The Best Trailer Brake Controller and Why You Need One

David Traver Adolphus

There are hundreds, maybe thousands of accessories for trailering, but nothing makes a bigger difference than the best trailer brake controller. Especially when towing heavy loads, towing at higher speeds, or on difficult road conditions, an electronic brake controller can make the difference between stopping safely and having a trailer fishtail out of control. They add brains to your trailer brakes, rather than the simple on-off you might have with basic trailer wiring.

You can divide brake controllers into two categories, proportional and time delayed. A proportional controller uses a sensor to determine how hard the tow vehicle is braking. It calculates the right amount of force to apply to the trailer brakes, enabling the tow vehicle and the trailer to decelerate at the same rate. A proportional controller provides more progressive, gradual braking feel from the trailer and performs better under heavy braking. They’re not a new technology, and were developed not long after WWII .

A time-delayed controller is much simpler. These brake controllers detect when you apply the brakes, usually using the same signal your brake lights get, and send a signal to your trailer to apply the brakes. You usually have to set a braking force value and a time delay value based on the trailer weight, the road conditions, and a number of other factors.

You can see why a proportional trailer brake controller might be a better choice than a time-delayed brake controller. The controller does the work of calculating braking value and time delay automatically, they perform better in hard emergency braking, and they help even out wear between your trailer brakes and tow vehicle brakes. If you find yourself towing often, you’ll want a great proportional electric brake controller. If you only tow small loads occasionally, a time-delayed brake controller will work for you.

The one exception is towing on loose surfaces, like dirt or snow, where a proportional controller can get confused. Our Editor’s Pick solves that by offering both an intelligent proportional mode and user-selectable braking.

Together with a great trailer hitch (and a weight distribution hitch ) The best trailer brake controllers will save you money on brakes—and liability claims—in the long run, not to mention making towing less stressful. See our Table of Contents for answers to common questions about trailer brake controllers, and tips on their installation and use.

Table of contents

1: best brand you never heard of: redarc tow-pro elite electric brake controller, 2. most spohisticated: curt echo electric trailer brake controller, 3. best for serious towers: tekonsha p3 electronic brake control, 4. best on a budget: reese brake-evn trailer brake controller, 5. curt venturer electric trailer brake controller (51110), 6. tekonsha primus iq, 7. reese towpower brakeman, 8. hopkins insight plug-in simple brake control, 9. reese towpower pod, 10. tekonsha voyager, should i get a timed or proportional controller, how do i mount and install a trailer brake controller, what size trailer needs brakes, how do i know if my truck has a brake controller, can i tow a trailer with electric brakes without a brake controller, how do i calibrate my trailer brake controller, recent updates.

travel trailer brake controller reviews

If you're in North America, you might not know much about REDARC, but they've been making high-quality products at their own factories in Australia since 1979. The Tow-Pro Elite electric brake controller is unique and has both a proportional mode for highway use and a user-controlled mode, which can be very useful for off-pavement towing where a proportional controller might not be able to read the conditions.

The Tow-Pro Elite works with both hydraulic and electric brakes, and is compatible with both 12- and 24-volt systems. It needs a beefy 30 amp circuit for the install, but is capable of controlling up to a triple-axle/six brake trailer.

It comes with a universal switch and a bare pigtail harness, but some vehicles will require additional wiring for plug-and-play. If you have a Tekonsha, Curt, or Hopkins harness already installed, you can connect it directly, if you're willing to cut off the incompatible plug and splice it in. This controller is self-levelling, and has a three-way accelerometer allowing you to mount it in any direction. The illuminated knob is designed to automotive interior standards, with elastomer bushings and is safe to use in impact zones. There's even an insert to fill out the switch blank when you install the knob. Users report you do need to do a few hours of trailering to get the unit calibrated correctly.

REDARC has an A rating for review authenticity, and the Tow-Pro Elite has a 95% positive rating, tied with some Tekonsha models. However, there aren't as many reviews as the other controllers on the list, so that could change with time. REDARC has US and Canadian customer service and tech support numbers which connect you to Australia, but they have afternoon hours in North American time. There is a short two-year warranty on their brake controllers.

Modern problems require modern solutions and if you're looking for a state-of-the-art trailer brake controller, check out CURT's Echo. What helps this proportional trailer brake controller stand out from the competition is its non-invasive and straightforward install process, which requires simply plugging it in, inline, into any seven-way connector. From there, it can wirelessly link to your smartphone using Bluetooth. This also means it's easily transferrable from one vehicle to another, which may come in handy for some vehicle owners. It also means you can remove it for security. Neither tools nor additional wiring are required for install, and it comes with a locking tab and strap to keep it firmly connected.

Once synced with your iOS or Android smartphone, you'll be able to use the Smart Control app to manage the brake controller and control all its brake settings from your phone. And if the Bluetooth connection is lost, you don't have your phone nearby, or it's simply out of battery, you don't have to worry—the controller will continue to function safely by using the most recently programmed settings. Another benefit of the app is the ability to store multiple user and vehicle-trailer profiles, so you can quickly switch from one to another.

As for the controller itself, it features a triple-axis accelerometer for smooth and safe braking. It works on virtually any trailer with one to two axles (two to four brakes) and is fully compatible with cruise control, anti-lock brakes, and low-voltage systems. It'll even send real-time notifications to your phone via the app if your trailer becomes overloaded or disconnected during travel.

The Echo has an 85% positive rating, over 1,600 reviews, and earns a B review quality rating. CURT Manufacturing offers a limited lifetime warranty, and has been in business since 1993. There is a toll-free US-based customer service number.

Tekonsha may not have the same feature set of our Editor's Pick, but . In fact, the only thing that keeps it out of the #1 spot is that it needs to be wired in.

The Tekonsha P3 features a large LED readout screen with configurable colors, which will show the current of the system along with battery, brake, and output voltages. The P3, which is a proportional brake controller, easily plugs into your vehicle using an adapter (which you have to buy separately), and mounts to the bottom of your dash with an easily-removable snap-in clip. It requires no calibrating just plug it in, hook your trailer up, and you'll be on your way.

This device provides braking power for up to four axles and like the related P2, has a 'boost' function that will send full power to the trailer brakes in emergency braking situations. Tekonsha offers an integrated plug-and-play port for two-plug adapters.

The number of functions and options might be overwhelming or overkill if you're not towing very much, and there are other options on the list that will do the job for less money if you don't need the P3's functionality.

Tekonsha is a 58-year-old company based in Michigan. The P4 has an outstanding 96% percent positive rating with over 5,000 reviews, and a company B grade for authenticity. There is a limited lifetime warranty, and separate US based 800- numbers for customer service and technical support, along with customer support email. They're owned by Horizon Global, which makes other familiar towing brands including Reese and Draw-Tite.

The Reese BRAKE-EVN is a popular, inexpensive proportional trailer brake controller with the ability to send braking power to four axles in total. It also features a small readout screen, which displays the current amount of voltage being sent to your trailer.

With a compact size, you may be able to tuck it away into an existing compartment, you can mount it to the bottom of your dash using the included brackets. You'll also want to ensure you have the correct wiring harness for your vehicle to use with this controller, because a separate T-connector is required.

It lacks some features of more expensive products, and there buttons are also mounted on the top, which can limit your mounting options. No leveling is required and the wiring connectors are plug and play.

There are great 94% positive ratings with over 4,000 reviews for the BRAKE-EVN, and Reese receives a company B grade, with few complaints. Reese's website says there's no warranty on the model 8508211 BRAKE-EVN, but the package says limited lifetime; while other information says three years. Reese shares 800- number customer service and technical support with Tekonsha, as well as customer service email.

Designed to offer safe and dependable operation is CURT's Venturer Electric Trailer Brake Controller. This is an easy-to-use brake controller with a nice, visible LED display that allows you to monitor brake operation. This brake controller has no internal moving parts, so no leveling is required.

Features on this powerful brake controller include a manual brake slider button, an adjustable power toggle, and adjustable ramp time. According to CURT, you can use its electric trailer brake controller on virtually any trailer with one to three axles (two to six brakes). This unit is fully compatible with cruise control, anti-lock brakes, low voltage systems, and PWM systems.

Install is much easier if you purchase a CURT vehicle-specific quick plug harness, which is sold separately. This brake controller comes with an adjustable mounting bracket, so you can set it up for maximum visibility. The Venturer has a good 84% positive rating, and the company earns an A grade for review credibility. CURT Manufacturing offers a limited lifetime warranty on brake controllers, and a toll-free customer service and product support number based in Wisconsin.

The Tekonsha Primus is an affordable proportional brake controller from the well-liked brand. The 90160 Primus has many of the same features as the other, more expensive brake controllers from Tekonsha, including a boost function, LED readout, and an automatically leveling accelerometer. But while more expensive products will support eight brakes across four axles, this controller only supports six across three.

Apart from that difference, this electronic brake controller is just as strong as other products from Tekonsha, most of which we'd highly recommend. We'd say this is a great electric brake controller for light-duty towers or anyone stepping up from a time delayed brake controller, but probably not suited for those who tow very often or have very heavy trailers. Like many electric brake controllers, you'll have to buy a T-connector separately.

The Primus has an outstanding 95% favorable rating across over 5,000 reviews, and a company B review rating. Like all Tekonsha controllers, there is a limited lifetime warranty, and separate US-based toll-free numbers for technical service and customer support. Aside from the one-touch boost feature, the Draw-Tite I-Stop IQ is an identical brake controller made by the same parent company, so there is a good opportunity for bargain shopping.

With an affordable price and simple set-up, a Reese TowPower Brakeman time-based brake controller is the right choice for light-duty towing, or if you're primarily towing off-road. This trailer brake controller is probably the least expensive that you can find, and a huge improvement over no electronic brake control. It's also easy to install, with no leveling needed.

You adjust the sync on this product using the slider. It's designed for use on one or two axles (two or four individual brakes) and includes all necessary mounting hardware and brackets. Because it features no moving parts like a proportional controller would, it's also only 1.9 x 4 x 8.95 inches, giving you a lot of options when choosing where to install it

This trailer brake controller will work as advertised, but may not provide the same linear braking feel and outright braking performance as a proportional controller. If you're towing something light such as a lawn tractor or making a trip to the dump a few weekends a year, it'll provide a lot safety over a hardwired dumb setup. Reese offers a mediocre three-year limited warranty on the Brakeman, and the same US toll-free number for customer service as their other products. It has a good 86% positive rating and over 400 reviews, as well as good company B rating for review authenticity.

Hopkins packs a lot of features, and an exclamation point, into the InSIGHT Plug-In Simple! trailer brake controller. It's a three-piece product consisting of the controller itself, a tiny LED screen for displaying current voltage and warning the driver of any system problems, and a unique seven-position slider for adjusting the intensity of the brake application. It's the only brake controller on our list capable of operating four axles or eight brakes.

Actual mounting of the parts is easy, thanks to a comprehensive install kit, but each of the three components needs to be wired together, making it more work than other controllers. The actual controller module is sensitive to mounting position, limiting flexibility a little. It works with hydraulic or electric brakes, and has short circuit protection. You'll need to find a separate specific plug-in harness needed to work with your vehicle if you don't want to cut and splice wires.

Started in 1953 in Kansas, Hopkins has a toll-free technical support number, and a lifetime warranty on brake controllers. There's a very good 89% positive rating and almost 800 reviews, while Hopkins earns an B seller rating.

travel trailer brake controller reviews

The main benefit of the Reese Towpower Pod over other brake controllers is its compact size. If you own a smaller vehicle or simply don't want your brake controller to take up a lot of room in the cabin with you, this may be the brake controller for you. At ‎6.4 x 3.7 x 2.1 inches, it can be tucked in almost anywhere.

This is a timed brake controller, which has downsides compared to a proportional controller, but it's also very affordable. It provides braking power for only two axles, and you'll have to buy the proper adapter for your vehicle separately. It comes with a bracket and all the necessary mounting hardware you'll need, though. A warning light illuminates for problems with trailer continuity, short circuits, or brake failure.

Reese offers different warranties on different controllers; this one is five years limited, and there is a US toll-free number for customer service. It has a great 93% positive rating with over 400 reviews, and Reese has a good B company rating.

The Tekonsha Voyager is a mid-range proportional brake controller that will go unnoticed in your cabin with its unassuming appearance and 6 x 2 x 5 inch dimensions. With plug and play operation, you can pretty much forget about this brake controller once you've installed it, although it does feature sync settings. It provides braking for up to four axles and comes with a standard C bracket for mounting it to your dash. Tekonsha leverages their corporate expertise to build in advanced electronics minimize that false braking for a smoother ride.

One downside to this controller is the sensitivity of the different settings—changing the settings can result in a dramatic change in braking performance, so keep this in mind when calibrating the device to work with your vehicle and trailer. You'll have to find the correct adaptor for your vehicle separately, or splice it in.

Parent company Reese offers a lifetime guarantee on the model 9030 Voyager, with toll-free US technical support. Reviews are 90% positive, although there aren't as many compared to more popular brake controllers. Tekonsha has a B company grade as a seller, with some recent complaints.

In most circumstances, a proportional trailer brake controller will provide better braking than a timed brake controller.

A timed brake controller allows you to set a sync value, which adjusts the length of the delay between when you first press the brakes and when the controller applies the brakes on your trailer. The controller will then ramp the brakes, progressively applying more and more brake pressure as the vehicle slows to a stop, attempting to mimic the progressive braking action most drivers use. It's a "dumb" system—it does exactly the same thing every tine you brake, regardless of the road conditions or trailer weight.

A proportional brake controller uses a sensor or accelerometers to detects the rate at which your vehicle is braking, and mirrors how hard you're stopping when applying the trailer brakes. This allows the trailer and tow vehicle to slow down at the same rate.

If you tow often, or tow very heavy trailers, you should definitely opt for a proportional brake controller. They provide better, more linear braking performance and also perform better in heavy emergency braking events. If you are only towing smaller trailers and don't find yourself towing very often, a timed brake controller should do the trick and will save you some cash.

The exception is if you do most of your towing off road. Proportional brake controllers typically aren't very good at dealing with loose surfaces like dirt or snow. The best proportional trailer brake controllers are a lot better at figuring this out than they used to be, but it might still make sense to use a good timed one. A few offer two modes for just this reason.

Most trailer brake controls will come with a mounting bracket and hardware. This bracket is typically intended to be screwed into the bottom of your dash, with the brake controller itself either screwing or sliding into the bracket.

What a trailer brake won't come with is a wiring harness. You will have to purchase the correct wiring harness for your vehicle separately. The wiring harness will plug into the trailer controller and a port underneath the dashboard, which you'll have to locate using the owner's manual or through online research (forums are a good place for such research), as the port's location can vary depending on the vehicle type.

In many common tow vehicles, like trucks and bigger SUVs, a trailer brake controller will be a simple plug and play installation into the port. You have to be mindful of which way you are mounting proportional trailer brake controllers, though, as you can throw off the accelerometer if they aren't mounted level or are mounted upside down.

If your vehicle is not equipped for towing, you'll have to run wires linking the trailer brakes, ground, vehicle brakes and battery power. This can be a much more complicated process, but there are plenty of wiring guides online to get you started. You may want to have professional do this wiring job as well if it's needed.

Whether they're electric or hydraulic, or hydraulic surge brakes, they're never a bad idea, because they help control the trailer. If you stop hard and the trailer doesn't have brakes, the only thing slowing it down is the trailer hitch. The trailer wants to keep going, and can easily swing around, or even pop off a ball hitch.

Legal requirements vary. Some places have a weight limit; in others it might be a percentage of the tow vehicle's weight. Many auto manufacturers say any trailer over 2,000 pounds should have brakes. Remember that without trailer brakes, your vehicle's brakes are stopping both, which is a lot of extra strain and wear. Two or three emergency stops with a 2,000-pound trailer might be enough to lose braking performance. Don't forget to add the weight of the cargo and the trailer itself together. Even a small utility trailer can easily weight 500 pounds all by itself.

Most trucks and many larger SUVs will have a button marked "Tow/Haul," but that doesn't mean there's a built-in brake controller. Usually, that just changes shift points to hold a gear at higher RPMs, and to downshift sooner for more engine braking. If there's a brake controller, it often comes with a heavy-duty or special tow package, and will almost always have the symbol above, along with a knob, buttons, slider, or sliders for brake control. Some vehicles will just have text and not the symbol; and some integrate the functions into a display screen. They'll still have the hand controls, however.

A few 3/4- and one-ton trucks include a brake controller, but it's only standard on certain high trim levels of half-ton trucks, and we're not aware of any SUVs of any trim level that offer a standard trailer brake controller.

Illustration: David Traver Adolphus/AutoGuide

You can, much like you can drive into a river, but no one involved is going to have a good time. It's probably not legal, you won't have any brake lights, and most importantly, your trailer won't have any brakes. If you were just moving a trailer around a yard, it's fine. But you do not want to be anywhere near a road or other people without working trailer brakes.

Good question! Many time-based brake controllers will come with an instruction manual telling you how to properly calibrate the controller. You can also look this up online. We don't want to mislead you in regards to the proper calibration of your device, so you should definitely follow the manufacturer's suggestions when calibrating the device.

Most proportional brake controllers will calibrate themselves as you go—just plug it in and you'll be on your way! It may take either some time or a certain number of stops for your trailer brake to be done with the process, so an hour or two of gentle driving and stopping before you head out on a trip is a good idea.

March 1, 2022: Added promoted product recommendation.

January 26, 2022: Updated and added FAQ sections.

January 25: Added Redarc Tow-Pro Elite as Editor's Pick. Removed redundant Draw-Tite I-Stop IQ. Updated information for Hopkins InSIGHT and Tekonsha Voyager. Added FAQ sections.

January 24, 2022: Added additional information for CURT Venturer, Tekonsha Primus, Draw-Tite I-Stop IQ, and Reese Brakeman.

We are committed to finding, researching, and recommending the best products. We earn commissions from purchases you make using the retail links in our product reviews. Learn more about how this works .

David Traver Adolphus

After completing a degree project in automotive design, Dave wrote and photographed for almost a decade in print car magazines (remember those?), before transitioning to digital. He now subjects a series of old high-performance cars to the roads and weather in Vermont and wonders why they're always expensively broken. Please stop when you see him crawling under one on the side of the road.

More by David Traver Adolphus

Join the conversation

Nathan Taylor

Thanks for the write up and detailed information. This is helpful. I will offer one correction, trailer brake lights come through the plug on an entirely different circuit from the brakes. Your comment that driving without a controller would mean no brake lights is incorrect.

Fiddlrts

The Tekonsha Primus may be "basic" but it isn't just for beginners. I have towed our travel trailer for over 50k miles in the last 10 years with one. Once you set the power level for your trailer - easy to do - it just works without fuss. Set it and forget it actually will be what most people do anyway, so why pay for extra features you don't really need?

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The Camping Nerd

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Top 5 Trailer Brake Controllers For Campers & RVs 2024

SUV towing a heavy travel trailer with a trailer brake controller installed inside

Why Do I Need A Trailer Brake Controller?

If you are the owner of a camper trailer like a travel trailer or 5th-wheel you are most likely going to need to get a trailer brake controller to power the electric brakes on the camper.

Electric trailer brakes are required in all states in the USA after the trailer’s gross weight reaches a certain limit. That weight can range anywhere from 1,500 lbs to 3,000 lbs depending on the state.

Related Product: See how level your RV is using an App on your phone with the LevelMatePro Wireless RV Leveling System (click to view on Amazon)

That means even a cargo trailer can require electric brakes and a trailer brake controller to be legally towed.

Being able to tow legally is one reason to have a trailer brake controller in your vehicle but it’s also for safety and to help keep the brakes on your vehicle from getting worn out.

Without a trailer brake controller or trailer brakes, your vehicle will be the only thing stopping whatever you are towing. This puts a lot of strain on the brakes and will wear them out a lot faster.

It also increases your stopping distance which can be a safety issue if you need to stop fast on a downhill or in an emergency.

Another reason you need a brake controller is to help stop trailer sway.

See Also: The 5 Things You Must Do When A Trailer Starts To Sway

Trailer sway can happen very easily with a large travel trailer and using the manual brake feature on a trailer brake controller is one of the first things you can do to stop dangerous sway.

Now that you know why you need one, here are my reviews of some of the best trailer brake controllers on the market today.

Table of Contents show Why Do I Need A Trailer Brake Controller? Best Trailer Brake Controller Reviews 1. Tekonsha P3 Electronic Brake Controller 3. Curt Venturer Electric Trailer Brake Controller 4. Draw-Tite Trailer Brake Controller 5. Hopkins Insight Simple Brake Control What To Look For In A Trailer Brake Controller My Pick For Best Trailer Brake Controller Frequently Asked Questions About Trailer Brake Controllers What happens if you don’t use a trailer brake controller? What does a trailer brake controller do? How do I know if my truck is wired for trailer brakes? What is the difference between a proportional and time delayed trailer brake controller? How do I set up the power or gain on my trailer brake controller?

Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake Control , silver, Single

Best Overall

Last update on 2024-04-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Trailer Brake Controller Reviews

1. tekonsha p3 electronic brake controller.

Check Price at Amazon

If you’ve been researching trailer brake controllers odds are you’ve seen the Tekonsha P3 listed as the top choice or best trailer brake controller a lot.

I used the Tekonsha P3 in my truck when towing my 10,000 lbs travel trailer and I can say it performed amazing every time.

It’s my top pick as well but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best trailer brake controller for your towing needs.

It’s very advanced and has a ton of different settings and it even includes different language options (English, Spanish and French).

If you want something a little more simple there are other great options in this review but the Tekonsha P3 is the very best.

Here’s why.

It has all of the standard features like proportional braking, a manual brake control slide, different brake sensitivity levels, and an LCD screen that shows the current braking levels as well as a “no brake” warning.

Just those features alone make it fantastic but Tekonsha didn’t stop there.

It also has a very intelligent diagnostic feature you can access via the screen and buttons on the controller.

It can tell you the output current of the controller, and the voltage of your vehicle’s battery, trailers brakes, and the controller’s output.

See Also:  RV Truck & Trailer Towing Capacity – How Much Can I Tow?

All of these diagnostics come in handy if you experiencing problems with the brakes or are getting a brake override warning.

You can easily adjust the brake sensitivity depending on how heavy the trailer you’re towing is.

There is also a memory storage feature that allows you to save the settings for a specific trailer. If you tow multiple trailers you can save up to 5 different settings for each one.

There’s also a boost feature for different kinds of trailers and weights. You can change the boost for trailers that are lighter, similar in weight, or heavier than your tow vehicle.

I found this feature was great for my travel trailer that was a little heavier than my truck. It made it so I didn’t have to turn the trailer brake gain/power all the way up and I was still able to brake safely even with a heavy trailer.

The Tekonsha brake controller can control up to 8 brakes at a time (4 axles) and works for both electric and hydraulic brakes.

The manual brake lever is on the bottom of the unit. The lever is pretty big and easy to find when you’re not looking. I think having a big manual brake lever is important because you want to be able to use it quickly in case of an emergency.

The Tekonsha P3 Electronic Brake Controller has more features and settings than any other brake controller on the market today.

If you tow a lot and want to be able to adjust every setting for any kind of towing condition this is going to be the best option.

For car compatibility, there is an integrated plug-n-play port for different adapters. If your vehicle has a factory installed brake controller harness you can get the correct adapter according to the make and model.

  • Easy To See LCD Screen
  • Advanced Diagnostic Features
  • Can Save Setting For Different Trailers
  • Multiple Boost Settings
  • Works For Hydraulic Brakes
  • Shows Current Braking Levels
  • Can Be Hard To Understand Settings
  • Not Budget Friendly

The Reese Towpower proportional brake controller is the less complicated but still feature packed option for those who just want a brake controller that is easy to understand and safe to use when towing large trailers.

It has an 8 brake or 4 axle capacity and even has a boost option for heavy towing.

The LED screen displays the current braking intensity and can be used to set the max braking power and use the diagnostic features.

You can see different error codes if the controller senses problems with your trailer’s brakes or the controller.

The manual brake slide is on the front of the controller under the screen. I wish the slide was a little bigger because it’s important to be able to easily find it in an emergency but it’s still very accessible on the front of the unit.

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The gain and boost adjuster buttons are located on the top.

The connection harness is a simple plug-n-play that should be compatible with most tow kits or specific make and model adapters.

One thing Reese hasn’t made clear about this trailer brake controller is if it works for hydraulic brakes or not.

The is simple but built with quality and dependability in mind.

You won’t have to worry about any of the inner parts wearing out and there are still some advanced features like brake boost and voltage diagnostics.

It’s also very easy to set up and understand.

Diagnostic Features

  • Boost Feature
  • Easy To Set Up
  • No Save Setting Modes For Different Trailers
  • Not Compatible With Hydraulic Brakes
  • Small Manual Brake Lever

3. Curt Venturer Electric Trailer Brake Controller

The Curt Venturer is one of the most affordable proportional trailer brake controllers out there. It’s simple, but it has everything you need for safe and smooth trailer braking.

Instead of showing a number value on the LCD screen, the Curt uses green bars to show how heavy the trailer is braking.

It’s very easy to see and may be a better option for those who prefer to see bars instead of numbers.

The manual brake lever is a small bar you press in on the left hand side. It’s easy to find quick and simple to use.

The gain or power is adjusted using a toggle on the top of the unit.

The power is the only adjustment that can be made which might be a little simple for frequent or heavy towers but it works for weekend warriors who have smaller trailers that don’t require a boost feature.

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Even though it’s simple and can only be used with up to 6 brakes (3 axles) the Curt Venturer is still compatible with all kinds of braking systems and hydraulic brakes.

The plug used is Curts own “quick plug” and you will need to get the proper adapter to fit the wiring in your tow vehicle.

There are no diagnostic features.

The Curt Venturer Electric Trailer Brake Controller is a fantastic option for small trailers and occasional towers who just need something that can get them to a nearby campsite on the weekends.

It’s not advanced, but it’s reliable, easy to set up, and very easy to understand.

  • Compatible With Hydraulic Brakes
  • No Diagnostic Features
  • No Boost Mode

4. Draw-Tite Trailer Brake Controller

The Draw-Tite is another great in between option much like the Reese brake controller.

It has a boost setting, it’s a proportional brake controller, and there are diagnostics.

It workes on up to 8 brakes (4 axles) but isn’t compatible with hydraulic brakes.

The manual brake lever is the same small slider that goes across the front of the unit. It could be bigger but it works.

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Draw-Tite is another dependable towing brand that makes excellent RV and trailer products.

The Draw-Tite Trailer Brake Controller has everything you need to safely tow on the road and it’s really easy to set up and understand.

The boost mode is a must have for heavy trailers and the diagnostics for your trailer brakes can be nice to have so you will be alerted to any issues before they become unsafe.

5. Hopkins Insight Simple Brake Control

The Hopkins Insight simple brake control is a little different than the rest.

Instead of being a unit that is placed somewhere under the steering wheel, it has two parts that are placed higher up and one that’s hidden away.

If you’ve ever seen in dash brake controllers (click to view on Amazon) it’s a lot like that, but there’s no difficult installation required.

Even though it looks a little different this is still a proportional electric brake controller with diagnostic features like brake failure notification and short protection.

It’s also compatible with hydraulic brakes and can control up to 8 brakes (4 axles).

There is no boost feature.

The way it works is you have what Hopkins calls a “smart box” that is installed somewhere under the dash. The small monitor and brake slider/control will be plugged into the smart box.

The monitor will be placed in an out of the way spot that’s clearly visible when driving. In the corner of the instrument panel or up on the dash near the windshield are both good locations.

The monitor will show you the current braking intensity and “no brake” warning. It’s actually pretty great to have all that info up front so you don’t have to look down to see what your trailer’s brakes are doing.

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The manual brake part can be installed anywhere that’s easy to reach and out of the way. You can put it under the steering wheel or even on the center console using double sided tape.

It controls both the manual brake and has buttons that are used to adjust the gain/power.

The Hopkins Insight Simple Brake Control is a fantastic option for smaller tow vehicles that don’t give you a lot of leg room.

Sometimes trailer brake controllers can get in the way and this is option has parts that can be placed pretty much anywhere near the driver.

I especially like the monitor that can be placed up high. I know there have been a few times that I haven’t looked down at my Tekonsha brake controller and have missed that the no brake warning was on.

This keeps all of the information right at eye level so you’ll see it much easier.

  • Monitor Can Be Placed Higher Up
  • Large Manual Brake Slide
  • Out Of The Way Design
  • Uses Lots Of Cables
  • Limited Diagnostics

towing on the freeway with a trailer brake controller

What To Look For In A Trailer Brake Controller

Proportional Braking

There are two main kinds of trailer brake controllers; proportional and time delayed.

You can read about the differences in the FAQ section below but in general, proportional braking controllers are the better way to go.

They are not only safer they are also better for your vehicles and trailer’s brakes.

While it’s not necessarily a must-have, diagnostic features can come in handy if you tow a lot.

After a year of full-timing with our travel trailer, my Tekonsha P3 started alerting me that there was a problem with the brakes in my trailer.

Using the diagnostic feature we were able to see that the current coming from the trailer brakes was off and we were able to address the issue.

A properly set trailer brake controller is going to tell your trailer to brake with enough power to stop you no matter how fast you’re going.

But a boost feature can be nice to have when you’re traveling at high speeds like on a freeway while towing a trailer that’s heavier than your vehicle.

Dependability

A faulty trailer brake controller means no trailer brakes which means unsafe towing conditions.

Nothing is more important when driving than being able to brake fast.

If you’re towing a trailer that doesn’t have any electric brakes your car’s brakes might not be able to stop you in time if there’s an emergency situation.

Mounting Location

Most brake controllers are mounted below the steering wheel where they are mostly out of the way but still able to be seen by the driver.

This usually works fine in trucks and large SUVs but if you are an extra tall person or it’s a smaller car there may not be room for a brake controller down by your knees.

If there isn’t enough leg room, getting a controller like the Hopkins reviewed above may be a better option.

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My Pick For Best Trailer Brake Controller

Tekonsha P3 Electronic Brake Controller

Of course, I had to go with the Tekonsha P3 as my pick for the best trailer brake controller.

It’s the brake controller that can do it all and you might as well go for the best even if you are only towing a small trailer.

It’s super adjustable, has the best diagnostic features of any controller on the market today, and it even has different language options.

I really like the feature where you can save the settings for different trailers and the different boost options are useful for different driving conditions.

The Tekonsha brake controller is the best overall for RV and trailer towing and a great way to keep you and others safe on the road.

motorhome towing a trailer using a trailer brake controller for the electric brakes

Frequently Asked Questions About Trailer Brake Controllers

What happens if you don’t use a trailer brake controller.

If you don’t use an electric brake controller when towing a trailer, the trailer’s electric brakes just won’t work because there is nothing sending signals to them to tell them when to engage.

That means when you brake the only thing stopping your vehicle and the trailer is the brakes on your vehicle.

This is extremely hard on your tow vehicle’s brakes and very unsafe. It increases the braking distance and can cause your trailer to sway out of control when you need to brake hard.

In many state’s it’s illegal to tow trailers over a certain weight without electric brakes, usually 3,000 lbs gross weight (1,500 lbs in CA).

RV trailers like travel trailers and 5th-wheels pretty much always fall into the must-have electric brakes category.

There are lots of great electric trailer brake controller options. Many SUVs and Trucks come pre-wired for trailer brake controllers and all you need to do is get one and plug it in.

If your vehicle isn’t pre-wired for a trailer brake controller you can wire it yourself, have a professional do it, or look into wireless brake controllers.

What does a trailer brake controller do?

Camper trailers and cargo trailers over a certain weight are required to have electric brakes.

A trailer brake controller is the brain that tells the trailer’s brakes what to do. Without it, the brakes will not be engaged at all, even if the lights are working and the trailer is plugged into your vehicle.

The brake controller syncs up the brakes of your vehicle with the trailers brakes so both work at the same time.

There are different kinds of trailer brake controllers, some are more advanced than others.

One of the main things they can all do besides engaging the trailer brakes when your vehicle brakes is a manual trailer brake override.

If your trailer starts to sway one of the ways you can stop it is by engaging the trailer’s brakes manually via the brake controller. It’s one of the best emergency features of a trailer brake controller and a must-have for RV trailer owners.

How do I know if my truck is wired for trailer brakes?

If your truck came from the manufacturer with a hitch receiver and a 7-prong plug outlet, the odds are it does have all the necessary wiring for a trailer brake controller.

You can tell if the 7 prong trailer plug outlet on your truck came from the manufacturer if it has the brand name of the truck on the little cover for the outlet.

If it’s a different brand name it was most likely added after being purchased which means the likelihood of there being wiring for a trailer brake controller decreases.

Often the wiring for a trailer brake controller can be found somewhere under the steering wheel. It may just be a plug sticking out of the panel or it might be hidden by the panel.

If your truck has an integrated trailer brake controller it’s most likely on the right hand side, under the controls for 4 wheel drive.

A lot of times you can identify a brake controller by the slide bar, which is the manual trailer brake override. It usually also lights up when the vehicle is turned on and shows a number that indicates the trailer brake power.

Another way to tell if your truck is wired for a trailer brake controller is if there’s a bracket installed somewhere below the steering wheel. If there’s a bracket there’s probably a plug somewhere nearby you can use for the controller.

What is the difference between a proportional and time delayed trailer brake controller?

A proportional trailer brake controller has a sensor inside of it that measures how fast your tow vehicle is slowing down. It uses that information to tell your trailer how much it should be braking.

So instead of just braking the same amount every time, the trailer brakes will match your braking and start at a lower intensity that increases as your braking increases.

It allows for a smoother braking experience and stops any push-pull that can happen when your trailer brakes too much or too little.

A time delayed trailer brake controller isn’t as advanced. Instead of adjusting the brake levels to your vehicles it simply tells your trailer that the vehicle is braking and the trailer will brake at the intensity you have pre-set it to.

Proportional trailer brake controllers are a lot easier on your trailer brakes and also perform better overall in different towing and weather conditions.

Time delayed brake controllers are still ok to use but they are only recommended for the occasional trailer tower and not someone who is towing often and long distances.

How do I set up the power or gain on my trailer brake controller?

The level of intensity for your trailer brakes is going to be different depending on how heavy it is or the size of the trailer.

When you get a new trailer or electric brake controller the first thing you need to do is set it up.

Instructions on how to adjust the sensitivity for your trailer should come with the brake controllers manual but if you’ve lost it you can follow this general rule on how high you should set the gain/sensitivity.

While towing your trailer find a dry, level, and paved area you can do your tests in.

An empty, level parking lot is a good place for this since you will need enough pavement to start and stop on.

Starting with the power output/gain set to a low setting start driving to 15 mph. At 15 mph let go of the gas pedal and engage the manual brake lever on your brake controller.

You want the trailer brakes to be set high enough to be able to stop both itself and the tow vehicle.

If it’s unable to stop you the power needs to be set higher.

Do this test over and over again adjusting the power one level at a time. When the trailer brakes are able to stop you and your trailer using the manual brake lever they are now set high enough.

Note that you do not want your trailer wheels to lock up. If the trailer wheels lock the power is set too high.

You want to find the sweet spot where your trailer is braking enough to almost lock up the wheels but you want to make sure they aren’t locking when using the manual brake lever.

Have any more questions about trailer brake controllers for RVs, campers, and cargo trailers? Leave a comment below.

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Best Trailer Brake Controllers in 2022

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Towing an RV or heavy trailer requires the right accessories. Your goal is to ensure that you, your trailer, and your vehicle make it to the designated location safely and securely. A trailer brake controller is an essential accessory for providing you peace of mind when towing your trailer.

It can be tedious to scroll through endless listings of trailer brake controllers claiming they’re “the best.” I’ve researched the best trailer brake controllers that offer the most versatility, value, and multi-function use.

Tow Safely With These Trailer Brake Controllers

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Reviews of My Top Recommendations

Ready? Let’s get into all of the details for each of my top picks, including what I liked and didn’t like about each one.

Most Versatile

Curt triflex brake controller.

The Curt TriFlex Brake Controller is a proportional brake controller with a triple-axis accelerometer, meaning that it can detect motion on three planes, helping it slow down and stop accordingly whether up or downhill. The controller is highly versatile and can be used on nearly every car, truck, or SUV. It’s versatility and simple controls also allow it to be used on all types of trailers, including heavier loads between 1 and 4 axles.

Despite its easy set-up and versatility, the Curt TriFlex brake controller is prone to drawing power even when the vehicle engine is off. Taking the controller off when not in use can resolve this issue, but for those of us who may be in a hurry or who are not willing to remove and replace the controller repeatedly, it can be slightly inconvenient.

CURT 51140 TriFlex Electric Trailer Brake...

  • INTELLIGENT BRAKING. This trailer brake controller operates with an integrated circuit called a...
  • EASY ADJUSTMENT. The TriFlex brake controller is highly adjustable to accommodate different...
  • COMPACT DESIGN. This electric brake controller has a sleek, subtle design to avoid dominating the...

Last update on 2024-04-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

  • Works on nearly all vehicle types
  • Can be used on nearly all types of trailers, including heavier loads between 1 and 4 axles
  • Simple to use with a digital display to help drivers know the degree the controller is adjusted to
  • Easy and quick installation that does not require much time
  • Includes a triple-axis accelerometer to help it detect motion on three planes
  • Older vehicles fort example converted vans may not be as compatible with this controller
  • It is prone to drawing power when the vehicle engine is off, thus draining the battery
  • Does not include a vehicle-specific quick plug harness, so you will have to purchase that separately

Draw-Tite I-Stop IQ

The Draw-Tite I-Stop IQ is an affordable trailer brake controller without sacrificing any crucial needs. It is a proportional controller that works best on trailers with 1 to 3 axles. It includes a simple to use LED readout to help drivers remain aware of any potential issues. Additionally, it’s snap-on mounting clip makes for easy removal and storage when it is not in use. We like the space-saving design, which measures 4” by 5”.

The only drawback with this controller would be its potential inconsistency. At times, the controller can “lock-up” and encourage braking on the trailer when it is unnecessary.

Draw-Tite 20191 I-Stop IQ Electronic Brake Control...

  • I-STOP IQ Proportional Electronic Brake Control; for 1 to 3 Axle Trailers
  • Self-diagnostics features will illuminate LED readout when issues occur
  • Includes a "Boost" feature and works proportionally in reverse
  • It is a proportional controller that can work with trailers between 1 and 3 axles, offering a bit of versatility
  • Installation is simple and easy to use
  • The controller comes with a snap-on mounting clip for easy removal and storage when not in use
  • The controller is compact
  • There is the potential for the controller to “lock-up” causing any four-season trailer brakes to work inconsistently
  • The controller tends to drain power when the engine is off when not removed
  • It does not come with a vehicle-specific harness

Best for Heavy Trailers

Tekonsha p3.

The Tekonsha P3 trailer brake controller is one of the heavier duty controllers on the market. It comes with an easy to read LCD that showcases diagnostics, battery, voltage, and alerts when necessary. It is a compact controller with the ability to work well with any trailer up to 4 axles. The Tekonsha P3 comes with an easy to use snap-on mount to make removal and storage efficient and stress-free. We love that it includes features for customized breaking to making going around turns, uphill, and downhill easier to navigate. It also has a brake boost feature to provide you with additional braking power when you need it.

On the flip side, this controller can be quite sensitive. Small bumps in the road or a knock by your knee could jostle the system, which is highly inconvenient. Recalibrating is not difficult, but it requires pulling off the road to fix the issue.

Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake Control ,...

  • A distinct, easy-to-read LCD display with multiple screen color options..Fit Type: Universal Fit
  • Up-Front controls provide easy access to all P3 features.
  • Easy to understand diagnostics show output current, battery, brake, and output voltage.
  • Is suitable for heavier loads including trailers up to 4 axles
  • Comes with an easy to read LCD screen that displays diagnostics, battery , voltage, and alerts
  • Has a simple to use snap-on mount for easy removal and storage
  • Includes the ability to be translated into English, French, or Spanish
  • The mounts are not as secure as they could be which makes the controller prone to being jostled around
  • If bumped, the controller can shut off and require recalibration
  • Buttons on the control panel can start to stick, making it difficult to change the settings

Most Affordable

Reese towpower brakeman.

The Reese TowPower Brakeman is the most affordable trailer brake controller on the market. Its low price makes it a fantastic choice if you’re on a budget. The controller is easy to install and comes with a simple slide adjustment to help calibrate the system to your needs. This product works great for trailers with 2 to 4 axles, making it perfect for vehicles and trailers of various types.

The controller does not include a display screen, which is nice if you don’t want flashy lights or unnecessary display features, but it does come with a simple red light indicator. If you are looking for a more in-depth display, this may not be the controller for you. The controller is simple and requires little to no effort for installation, but due to its simplicity, it does not include all of the bells and whistles of other brands.

Reese Towpower (74642) Brakeman Timed Compact...

  • Completely compatible with anti-lock braking systems
  • Slide adjustment
  • No moving parts and no leveling required
  • Quick and straightforward installation with easy removal when not in use
  • Includes a simple layout with a red indicator light indicating output.
  • Works with various trailers and vehicles between 2 and 4 axles
  • Budget-friendly without compromising quality
  • It is compatible with nearly all anti-lock braking systems
  • Due to its simple design, it does not feature specific readouts or diagnostics
  • It is a time-delayed controller with only two adjustment features: time-delay and severity brake
  • The controller itself does not include all of the vehicle-specific or necessary hookups

Best Multifunction Controller

Hopkins insight.

The Hopkins INSIGHT trailer controller brings a new meaning to multifunctional. This controller can work on both electric and hydraulic braking systems, making it versatile for almost every vehicle. It includes a simple installation and seven different sensitivity settings.

It is suitable for up to 8 trailer brakes, making it one of the most multi-use controllers. One of the most useful features is that the remote display screen is separate from the controller, making changing settings on the road safe and easy.

The Hopkins INSIGHT is made of a cheaper plastic material which can deter some users. It is not as sleek and appealing as other models. However, it provides several functions that differentiate it from the competition. Sadly, the red light on the device is perpetual and can be quite irritating after driving for long periods.

Hopkins Towing Solutions 47297 INSIGHT Plug-in...

  • Advanced brake technology that mirrors the braking of the tow vehicle for safe, smooth stops
  • Works on trailers with electric or hydraulic brakes
  • Digital power and 7 sensitivity settings with intuitive vertical manual slide
  • Multifunctional and can work on both electric and hydraulic brakes
  • Includes seven different sensitivity settings to help suit your needs
  • The controller works with trailers with up to 8 axles, making it unique in the industry
  • The display is separate from the controller itself making the settings easier to read and offering the ability to change settings without worry while on the road
  • It has a simple and easy installation process
  • The red light can be distracting when on the road
  • The casing of the controller is flimsy and made of plastic making it prone to damage
  • It is a proportional controller which only includes one time-delay setting

Best for Smaller Vehicles

Reese towpower pod.

The Reese Towpower Pod is one of the best trailer brake controllers for smaller vehicles. It is set at an affordable price, making it appealing to most recreational haulers. Some of this controller’s highlights are that it includes an easy-to-read LED display for a tow-vehicle to trailer connection. The controller also comes with a five-year warranty, which offers peace of mind for buyers.

While the Reese Towpower Pod includes many handy features and easy installation, screws are not included with the mounting device. Additionally, the controller does not work with every vehicle type, so be sure to read the descriptions to see if your vehicle will be compatible with the device. With a trailer brake controller, it’s important to double-check your connection to prevent controller issues.

Reese Towpower 74377 Pod Brake control, Black

  • Power-on LED for a Positive tow vehicle to trailer connection
  • Smooth and simple installation
  • Up-front easy access adjustment controls, even when mounted upside down
  • Perfect for smaller and lightweight vehicles that are not carrying heavy loads
  • It comes at an affordable price making it great for recreational users
  • Easy-to-read LED display
  • Simple to install and can even be used upside down if necessary
  • The controller comes with a five-year warranty
  • Screws are not included with the device
  • The controller does not work for every vehicle type
  • The controller tends to cut out if not installed correctly

Recap: The Best Trailer Brake Controllers

  • Curt TriFlex Brake Controller – Most Versatile
  • Draw-Tite I-Stop IQ – Best Value
  • Tekonsha P3 – Best for Heavy Trailers
  • Reese TowPower Brakeman – Most Affordable
  • Hopkins INSIGHT – Best Multifunction Controller
  • Reese Towpower Pod – Best for Smaller Vehicles

Buying a New Trailer Brake Controller: What to Look For

When it comes to choosing the right trailer brake controller, we recommend considering the following factors.

The Size and Weight of Your Trailer and Load

Your trailer and load’s size and weight can determine whether or not you require more durable trailer brake controllers. Sturdy controllers will be more expensive but will also come with greater capabilities when tugging heavy loads.

The Size and Capability of Your Vehicle

The size and capability of your vehicle will also play a key role in determining which controller is best for you. If you own a smaller vehicle, make sure that you find a hookup compatible with your car’s make and model. Larger vehicles can invest in more advanced controllers but must be aware of their compatibility with the axle.

trailer brake controllers size of the rv matters

Do You Need a Proportional or Time-Delayed Brake Controllers?

Another critical thing to consider is whether or not a proportional or time-delayed controller is right for you. Proportional controllers are the most common and work best with electric brakes. If your trailer brakes are hydraulic, you’ll likely have to look into time-delayed controllers. Electric brakes are the most common trailer brakes these days, but make sure to check your trailer first to figure out the right option for you. We are partial to proportional brake controllers anyways – they have a sensor on them that detects your rate of deceleration and mimics it on the trailer brakes. Timed brake controllers slowly apply more brake pressure as the vehicle slows to a stop, which might be out of sync with your progressive braking pressure. Timed brake controllers should still do the trick for smaller trailers.

Easy to Set Up

One last thing to consider is the simplicity of the trailer brake controller’s setup. While many controllers come with simple mounting brackets and clear instructions, it’s important to know that not all systems are the same. The Reese Towpower Pod, for example, does not include screws for its installation.

Finding the right trailer brake controller doesn’t have to be complicated. Just be sure to know your vehicle and trailer’s strength and durability, the type of controller you are interested in, and be aware of what may or may not be included with your purchase. Then you’re well on your way to finding a trailer brake controller that is compatible with your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are trailer brake controllers universal.

Most trailer brake controllers are not vehicle specific. They can be used on just about any type of vehicle and the RV class , and some even have built in mechanisms that just have to be connected to the controller itself. So while the trailer brake controllers are often pretty universal, the hardware that you may need to install it for your specific vehicle may not be universal.

What Should My Trailer Brake Controller Be Set To?

This largely depends on the size trailer you are pulling and where the weight is in the trailer. If the weight is further forward this might change how you set your braking, and same if the weight is farther back. Larger trailers will require more gain than smaller trailers so talk to your dealer or mechanic about the exact setting for your specific model.

How Does A Controller Know If A Trailer Is Connected?

Most trailer brakes are electric and have a magnet in them. When the brakes are connected to the controller, a small amount of voltage is sent to the controller to let that controller know there is a trailer connected. This is generally a small blue wire.

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Mike leads research, writes, and keeps the site up and running. He's worked on upgrades to an old class A Winnebago, vans, and other homes - wherever they are.

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travel trailer brake controller reviews

RV Daily

Elecbrakes – we field test the Bluetooth trailer brake controller

Robert Pepper

The Elecbrakes system uses Bluetooth connectivity to link tow vehicle and trailer, and we’ve tested the latest version.

If you tow and you’re reading this, chances are you have a heavy trailer which has electric brakes that can be operated independently of the tow car. While the law says trailers over a GTM of 2000kg need independent brakes, it’s a very good idea to run them on lighter trailers too. The GTM (Gross Trailer Mass) is the weight of the trailer on the wheels, which is the total trailer weight with towball mass subtracted.

In practice, independent brakes mean your towcar needs an electric brake controller, not just a towbar and mechanical overrun brakes. Wiring a brake controller into your car is an easy enough job for an auto electrician, and within the skills of many amateur mechanics, although modern cars require increasing care with any additions or changes to the electrics. Most users tow just fine with a wired-in controller, but there are occasions when it’d be nice to tow without needing one. For example, if you want to lend your trailer to friends who have a towbar but no brake controller fitted, or you have use of a temporary vehicle to tow your trailer, or if you’re a trailer fleet operator.

One solution could be a wireless brake controller, and we’ve been testing one from Elecbrakes. It’s pretty simple, you first mount the Elecbrakes controller to the trailer, either bolting it in or maybe just cable-tying. Elecbrakes even supply a drilling template. The location or orientation of the controller isn’t particularly important. Still, it shouldn’t be in a toolbox and must be within range of the Elecbrakes remote or phone app used to change settings and manually operate the brakes. I tested the range at over 15m.

Eb As Delivered

THE INSTALLATION

The next step is to connect your trailer electrics to the Elecbrakes controller, which then connects to your tow vehicle’s electrics. You can wire the controller in with the clear instructions, or just connect your trailer’s electrical plug to an optional Elecbrakes plug-n-play adaptor, then connect the Elecbrakes controller to your vehicle’s electrics so the controller is between the towcar and trailer.

Then switch on the engine, and turn your headlights on low beam (not sidelights or the auto setting) so the controller has power. Finally, you control the brakes via an app on a phone (Android or Apple), or a dedicated remote control unit. The app or remote detects the controller, connects over Bluetooth, and you’re away!

Total set-up time is about three minutes, if that, if you’re using the plug-n-play adapter which costs $70. The manuals are very well written and presented in a high-quality booklet, and indeed nothing about Elecbrakes seems cheap or nasty, which given the job it does, is a good sign.

Eb Program Detail

THE SET-UP PROCESS

In practice, there are two things you need to do with any brake controller. First is set it up so the proportion of braking force set to the trailer wheels is appropriate for the trailer and load. The heavier the trailer, the more braking force you need, and the type of tow vehicle makes a difference too. Second is to be able to apply the trailer brakes independently of the towcar, which is what you’ll need to do should you encounter trailer sway, and you need to do that immediately, no messing around.

The Elecbrakes controller braking force is set by the remote or app, and once set, stays set, so if connectivity is lost, the controller will brake at the force last set. It also means you can use the app to set the braking force parameters, then use the remote to operate things, which is handy as I find it easier to set up on the app.

Eb Remote Apply Brakes

You can have up to five sets of settings called Programs, for example, five trailers, or fewer trailers with different loads on, or for different terrains. I have oneProgram for my car trailer unloaded, and another with a car on it. Each Program has four settings:

Forward, for speeds over 50km/h,

Minimum for speeds under 50,

Reverse, and

Override for when you when manually operate the trailer brakes instead of having them come on when you press the vehicle’s brake pedal. To do that, you press a button on the remote or app. On the remote, the harder you press the button, the greater the braking force.

ELECBRAKES IN ACTION

So how does all this work in practice? So far, I’ve towed trailer loads from 1100kg to 2500kg using a Subaru Forester, Nissan Navara NP300, and Ford Ranger PX. It’s been straightforward, just connect the Elecbrakes controller, wait a few seconds for the remote to pick it up. The system also works with the LED light resistor my Ranger PX has to use. I found it much better to put the resistor between the Ranger and the Elecbrakes controller, rather than between the Elecbrakes controller and the trailer.

When towing, you do need to remember to drive with the headlights on for power, otherwise the controller will lose contact. The remote will beep, and the app display changes – I have my phone on permanent mute, so there’s no sound on that. Once you’ve selected your Program, it’s set and forget, except when you want to change force which you do by selecting a different Program.

WHAT ARE THE QUESTIONS?

The big concern when towing a trailer is always operating the brakes quickly so you can deal with trailer sway because when you feel it happening, every nanosecond’s delay is one step closer to disaster.

When I first looked at Elecbrakes back in mid-2018 this was my first and major worry, along with needing to touch your phone when driving. You could, and should in my view, use a dedicated phone if you want to use Elecbrakes app so you’ve got an instant ability to apply the brakes, without needing to swipe your way to the app first. I also suspect but cannot confirm that using a phone dedicated to Elecbrakes might not be seen as “using your phone when driving”. However, I’d recommend the remote over the app, as it’s simpler and easier. Although it has a battery with a 4-5 hour claimed life, the remote should be permanently plugged in, but that’s no hardship in a vehicle using the supplied USB cable and 12V adaptor. Even if you have the remote, you should use the app regularly as Elecbrakes plans to update the firmware on the controller, and that’s done with the app. This means you’re buying into a system which is actively being developed for the future. As I write this, Elecbrakes tells me that it is just about to release a night mode update for the app and some cosmetic changes for usability.

One other advantage of the app is that it gives you interesting statistics, and real-time information such as voltages out of your tow car electrics, and even the number of times the brakes have been applied [okay, you’ve reached peak nerd now – Ed].

FURTHER OPINIONS

I asked on my Facebook page if anyone had used the Elecbrakes system, and quite a few readers responded positively with tales of their travels. Nobody seemed to have complaints, and Elecbrakes is doing well, selling into markets such as the caravan rental industry that values the system because it means their customers just need a towbar, not a brake controller.

So far, I’ve not used the system for tens of thousands of kilometres, but it works as advertised. The major improvement I’d want is to make switching programs easier. With a conventional controller you just twiddle a dial to set your braking force, it’s extremely quick and easy, and I change mine all the time, for example when it’s raining, down steep hills, on dirt and with loads. With Elecbrakes, you have to press buttons or swipe, which takes a lot longer and for me that’s not ideal. However, one Elecbrakes advantage is that you are going to known presets, whereas if you twiddle a dial you won’t necessarily get back to exactly the setting you had before.

Eb Useful Info

IF I HAD TO BE PICKY?

Other improvement points are more niggles and relate to the user interface. I’d prefer the remote to use the newer USB-C cable rather than Mini-USB, and the charge point to be at the bottom so it’d be easier to mount vertically on a dash. I think the app itself could use a little user interface makeover.

For example, changing the appearance of the brake override not just the colour, and rather than just numbers for forward response, make it an obvious scale so you can see where you are from max to min. A single summary screen of the different programs with settings would be nice.

The difference between “Forward” and “Minimum” isn’t obvious either, and there’s plenty of screen space on the app to explain.

On the remote, I’d change the style of numerals so it’s not the same for the Program as the setting, just a little visual differentiator.

However, the good thing about an app is that it can be updated, and it will be. I also would like at least 10 Programs given I have for example a car trailer, which can run unloaded, and loaded up to 2800kg, and can be pulled by at least two different vehicles, for optimal towing I’d need six Programs.

Interestingly, you can hand someone the remote or the app, and they can apply the brake from outside the vehicle, for example, if you’re reversing. That’s a useful safety aspect, although it shouldn’t be relied upon. And if you own multiple trailers, then you could easily swap the Elecbrakes unit from trailer to trailer. Thinking further ahead, perhaps future versions could incorporate cameras, help detect trailer sway … but that’s just me speculating. When you have a good base of technology like this, there’s a lot of possibilities.

Elecbrakes has an obvious market in the rental industry, but is it an option for recreational users? If you already have a wired brake controller, I don’t see much reason to change over, at least until the system delivers enough functions to tempt people across. If you don’t have a wired controller, then it’s definitely worth considering as it’s a buy-once item, no need to buy another brake controller when you change vehicles. Or, if you lend your trailer to friends it’d make life easier too.

My unit will be used on trailers we have on test, as I no longer need to nag carmaker PR people to install brake controllers, which is good for them and me, so you’ll see updates here from time to time. And now my friends can more easily borrow my trailers, so Elecbrakes has made my life that little bit easier.

RRP $649 for the controller, which can be wired direct into your trailer’s electrics. The plug-n-play adapter is another $70, and you can choose your plugs, for example 7-pin to 12-pin. Additional adapters are $80. The app is free on Android and Apple, and the remote is $169.

For more information click here

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Bluetooth Trailer Brake Controllers: Are They Safe? 

Posted by Jason Epperson | Jun 22, 2023 | Gear

This post contains Amazon affiliate links.

by Jason Epperson

When it comes to towing heavy trailers, safety should always be a top priority. One essential component is a trailer brake controller. These devices are crucial for telling the brakes on a trailer to activate when you press the brake pedal in the tow vehicle, providing for safe stops. And trailer brakes are legally required when the trailer exceeds a certain weight.

But many tow vehicles don’t come with brake controllers. They can be installed aftermarket, but you might consider that a hassle.

In recent years, there has been an emergence of Bluetooth-enabled trailer brake controllers promising convenience and ease of use. In this article, we will delve into the topic of Bluetooth trailer brake controllers, focusing on their reliability, functionality, and their significance in towing safety.

Bluetooth trailer brakes

Understanding Trailer Brake Controllers

Before we delve into the realm of Bluetooth trailer brake controllers, it’s essential to understand what a trailer brake controller is and why it is necessary for towing heavy loads.

A trailer brake controller is a device that allows the driver to control the electric or hydraulic brakes on a trailer from within the towing vehicle. It ensures that the trailer brakes are synchronized with the vehicle’s brakes, providing safer and smoother stops.

It has a “gain” adjustment that allows you to set the amount of braking applied so that you get the maximum braking power without locking the wheels up. It also has a lever that allows you to test the trailer brakes and to apply them without applying the truck brakes. This can be an important way to stop trailer sway before it gets out of control.

travel trailer brake controller reviews

Legality and Weight Requirements

Trailer brake controllers are not just a luxury; they are a legal requirement in many jurisdictions. The specific weight threshold that triggers the necessity of a trailer brake controller varies from place to place.

Five states (CA, ID, NV, NH, and OR) require trailer brakes for trailers over 1500 lbs, while most states (36) set the requirement at 3000 lbs. If you plan to travel across the country, you’re going to want to have operational trailer brakes for all but the smallest teardrop trailers.

Wireless Brake Control (Bluetooth)

If you don’t tow often, or you don’t want to have a brake controller installed, there are “wireless” options out there that can be used.

The Curt Echo is a notable example. It sounds ridiculous to even consider Bluetooth trailer brake control as an option. However, it is important to clarify that despite the Bluetooth functionality, the braking mechanism itself does not rely on a Bluetooth connection. Instead, the Curt Echo utilizes built-in accelerometers to detect when the towing vehicle is decelerating. 

Bluetooth trailer brake controllers, such as the Curt Echo, offer several advantages in terms of convenience and flexibility. They can be used with most vehicle-trailer combinations and provide for easy installation with simple setup requirements.

Still, you have to make adjustments through a dedicated smartphone app. This allows users to fine-tune brake sensitivity, gain diagnostic insights, and receive real-time information on brake performance.

Bluetooth technology relies on wireless communication between the brake controller and the driver’s smartphone. While Bluetooth connections are generally reliable in everyday settings, the towing environment presents unique challenges that can potentially disrupt the connection.

Factors such as distance, obstructions, and interference from other electronic devices may impact the reliability of the Bluetooth link. Thankfully, the connection is primarily used for adjusting settings, and if the Bluetooth connection is lost, the brakes will still function normally. 

Curt Echo: A Portable and Smartphone-Ready Brake Controller

The Curt Echo trailer brake controller stands out as a portable and smartphone-ready option that offers convenience and flexibility in towing operations. Let’s explore some of its key features and address common questions regarding its installation and compatibility.

Three Models — Which Bluetooth Trailer Brake Is Best?

The Echo brake controller comes in three Bluetooth versions: the Curt Echo Mobile , the Curt Echo In-Line , and the Curt Echo Under Dash . They all do essentially the same thing, requiring you to use the same custom-designed app to operate them. The difference is the ease of installation and where they are located.

Bluetooth trailer brakes

The “under dash” model connects to a built-in tow package’s wiring harness in the cab of your vehicle. If your vehicle is already equipped with a wiring harness that can accept a trailer brake controller, we think it’s best to just get a manually operated one.

bluetooth trailer brakes

The “in-line” model gets mounted behind your 7-way connector on the underside of the vehicle. Again, it works if your vehicle has the right connectors.

bluetooth trailer brakes

The “mobile” version is the model that most people might be considering because it boasts a non-invasive plug-and-play installation process. It conveniently plugs into any 7-way connector, eliminating the need for additional wiring or hardware. This portability allows users to use the Echo brake controller across multiple towing vehicles without the hassle of complicated installations. The only major downfall is that the “mobile” version can only be used with trailers that have up to 2 axles (4 brakes), while the wired versions can handle up to 4 axles. In real-world use, trailer loads requiring 3-4 axles need to be towed with a heavy-duty truck that will certainly already have a built-in brake controller. 

bluetooth trailer brakes

Smartphone Integration for Enhanced Control

One of the standout features of the Curt Echo is its ability to wirelessly sync with your Apple or Android phones. By downloading the Smart Control app, your smartphone becomes the interface for controlling the brake settings.

However, it is crucial to prioritize safety and avoid distracted driving. Adjustments should only be made when the vehicle is stationary. You’ll probably want to mount your phone to the dash. The app needs to be open and running while you are driving.

Responsive Braking with Triple-Axis Accelerometer

The Echo brake controller utilizes a triple-axis motion-sensing accelerometer, ensuring highly responsive and smooth braking. Even if your phone screen is locked, receives incoming calls, or experiences a temporary Bluetooth disconnection, the Echo maintains precise brake control utilizing the most recently programmed settings. 

bluetooth trailer brakes

Versatility and Compatibility

The Curt Echo Mobile seamlessly transfers between vehicles and trailers. It is compatible with cruise control, anti-lock brakes, and low-voltage systems, ensuring seamless integration with various towing setups.

The Echo regulates trailer brake activity based on vehicle deceleration, and small speed changes or releasing the gas pedal may not activate the trailer brakes. This ensures that the Echo does not interfere with adaptive cruise control systems.

Installation Orientation and Other Considerations

One common question regarding the Curt Echo Mobile is whether the unit requires a specific orientation for the accelerometer to function properly. Fortunately, the Echo’s automatic calibration process allows it to adapt to the current orientation it sits in, ensuring accurate braking performance regardless of the connector’s rotation.

Additionally, the Curt Echo can be used in rental environments where multiple users download the app and utilize the receiver. It offers the flexibility to save up to six different trailers in the customizable app, allowing for easy switching between vehicles and trailers.

The Curt Echo system is not compatible with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, but it also won’t interfere with their functions. It works with ABS brakes and PWM wiring systems. It features weather-resistant construction, has built-in reverse-polarity and short-circuit protection, and a limited lifetime warranty.

Limitations and considerations of Bluetooth brake controllers

The notable limitation of Bluetooth brake controllers, including the Curt Echo, is their reliance on a smartphone application for manual braking.

In situations where trailer sway occurs, applying the trailer brakes without letting off the accelerator can stop the trailer from wagging. This is a split-second decision and needs to happen immediately, or it will be too late. Using a button on an app may introduce an element of danger.

This can be particularly concerning when towing with smaller vehicles. Unfortunately, most vehicles without trailer brake controllers are small. 

bluetooth trailer brakes

However, Curt has addressed this concern by offering an optional Bluetooth button that allows manual braking without relying on a smartphone screen. I, frankly, think it should be mandatory. It does, however, still require that you have the app running on your phone, and it’s pricey, at over $50.

Bluetooth Trailer Brakes Conclusion

Bluetooth trailer brake controllers, such as the Curt Echo, introduce a new level of convenience and flexibility in towing operations. While they offer benefits like wireless connectivity, app-based adjustments, and real-time information on brake performance, it is important to carefully evaluate their reliability in real-world towing scenarios.

It is also important to consider the specific requirements of your towing setup. While Bluetooth brake controllers offer convenience, it is essential to ensure that they meet your specific needs. 

Getting a hard-wired brake controller installed is going to cost you between $300 and $600 while getting the Curt Echo plus the Bluetooth button is going to land in the same range. The cash savings might not be worth it in the end. But Bluetooth controllers do offer a strong connection and the easiest installations you could possibly get if you have a special need for a mobile brake controller. 

For more RV ownership articles click here .

About The Author

Jason Epperson

Jason Epperson

Jason travels the country full-time with his wife Abigail, and three children.

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travel trailer brake controller reviews

CURT 51140 TriFlex Electric Trailer Brake Controller, Proportional, 7... › Customer reviews

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CURT 51140 TriFlex Electric Trailer Brake Controller, Proportional, 7 x 5 x 2.63 inches, Black

CURT 51140 TriFlex Electric Trailer Brake Controller, Proportional, 7 x 5 x 2.63 inches, Black

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Love Your RV!

Tekonsha Primus IQ Brake Controller

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commisson if you decide to make a purchase through my links. There is no addtional cost to you. See Affiliate Disclosure

In continuing my RV Product reviews next up is my Primus IQ Brake Controller . I’ve been using it for about 2 years now installed in my 1994 F350 Ford Truck towing 9000 lbs. worth of Keystone Cougar Fifth Wheel . I’ve logged around 35,000 in that time and been on all types of roads.  I’m very pleased with the performance of the Tekonsha Primus IQ Brake Controller.

Primus IQ Brake Controller photo

The controller was very easy to hook-up even though my old truck didn’t have the newer standard controller harness that would have just plugged in to the Primus. The unit came with a wiring harness and instructions for hooking up to the various truck brands color codes. Once I located the older Ford color codes it was a matter of splicing together 4 wires. Unlike the older controllers there was no need to set the Primus IQ at a certain angle it auto magically figures it out and applies the proper braking voltage depending on the terrain. So that made it easy to fit nicely in my truck dash. I placed it in a spot where I could see the read out and reach it easily if manual braking was required.

The only major set up needed was to drive the trailer on some gravel surface and adjust the voltage so the trailer tires lockup, then try it on pavement and set it so they don’t. After a little experimenting I found a perfect setting allowing nice even braking without locking the brakes and skidding.

  • Digital readout – displays the current voltage during braking, connection status and error codes if a fault is detected.
  • Brake Boost – adds an extra amount of braking power to the initial braking of the trailer. Three levels are available with a push of a button.
  • Manual lever –  allows you at anytime to press it and manually apply the brakes. If the trailer were to begin to sway too much you can use this lever to control the trailer.
  • Snap-in Mount – this allows you to easy remove the controller when not using or use in more than one vehicle.
  • Works in reverse for backing into camp spots.

Primus IQ Brake Controller photo

My Experience

I find that when traveling at highway speeds I like to have the Boost set to #2, that way if emergency braking is needed there is a little extra grab on the trailer brakes. But in the city this can be a little jerky so I dial down to no boost or setting #1.

I had a failure in my trailer brake system, an intermittent open wire. The Primus IQ Brake Controller alerted this to me by flashing an error code alerting me to the fact I had no trailer brakes. Nice to know since I was towing in very hilly terrain that day!

I’d say after a bunch of towing under my belt with this brake controller I would recommend it to anyone looking for a decent controller with great features. It has never let me down and provided nice smooth braking during my many journeys.

Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control, Grey

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COMMENTS

  1. The 12 Best Trailer Brake Controllers To Buy in 2022

    Travel trailers and fifth-wheels are typically equipped with electric brakes installed on tandem axle models. Another type of braking system more commonly installed on luxury trailers is the electric over hydraulic braking system. ... Best Trailer Brake Controller Reviews & Recommendation. Without further ado, let's dive into our delicious ...

  2. Best Trailer Brake Controllers (Review and Buying Guide) in 2023

    Best Value: Draw-Tite Activator IV Electronic Brake Control. Most Versatile: Redarc Tow-Pro Elite V3 Electric Brake Controller. Best for Large Trailers: Reese Towpower Brakeman IV Digital Brake ...

  3. 10 Best Trailer Brake Controllers of 2023

    Draw-Tite 5535. The perfect brake controller with a great mix of affordability and quality. CHECK PRICE. Premium Choice. DirecLink. A high-performance brake controller with an OBD2 connector for diagnosis and installation. CHECK PRICE. Best Budget. Tekonsha 9030.

  4. Best Trailer Brake Controllers For 2024

    Tekonsha P3 Model 90195: Best Full-Featured Controller. Curt 51110 Venturer: Best Budget Trailer Brake Controller. Tekonsha Prodigy P2: Easiest Installation. Reese Towpower Brakeman Model 74642 ...

  5. 5 Best Trailer Brake Controllers Reviewed

    A trailer brake controller helps keep you and your loved ones safe while towing heavy loads on the road. #2 - Reese Towpower Pod Brake Control About: This digital brake controller is time-delayed.It has pre-wired plug-and-play connections that make it easy to install on trailers with one to four-axle systems.

  6. The Best Trailer Brake Controllers: Safely Stop Your Trailer

    3.1) Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Electronic Brake Control. 3.2) Reese Towpower Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control. 3.3) Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller. 3.4) Curt Echo Mobile Brake Controller with Bluetooth Connection. 3.5) Autowbrake Trailer Mounted Electric Brake Controller.

  7. 7 Best Trailer Brake Controllers. Electric, Proportional & Wireless

    3.5 Redarc Tow-Pro Elite V2 Electric Brake Controller. 3.6 CURT 51110 Venturer Electric Trailer Brake Controller. 3.7 CURT 51170 Spectrum Original Integrated Electric Trailer Brake Controller. 4 Compare the Best Trailer Brake Controllers. 5 Buyer's Guide to Buying the Best Trailer Brake Controller. 5.1 Price.

  8. 6 Best Trailer Brake Controllers for RVs and Campers

    View on Amazon. The Draw-Tite 5535 is another solid choice for a trailer brake controller. It provides proportional braking for a smoother slowdown with a shorter stopping distance. There is also a boost feature for higher initial trailer braking when needed. You can use it with trailers up to 4 axles.

  9. Best Trailer Brake Controller for RV and Campers

    A trailer brake controller. But first, here's my bottom line up front summary of the best RV trailer brake controllers: Tekonsha 90195: Best Overall Trailer Brake. P3 Tekonsha 90885 Prodigy P2: Best LCD Display Trailer Brake. Reese Towpower: Best Time Delayed Trailer Brake. Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ. Tekonsha 90195 P3.

  10. The Best Trailer Brake Controller and Why You Need One

    7. Reese TowPower Brakeman. Check Price. There isn't much to go wrong with a time-delay brake controller. With an affordable price and simple set-up, a Reese TowPower Brakeman time-based brake ...

  11. Top 5 Trailer Brake Controllers For Campers & RVs 2024

    Best Trailer Brake Controller Reviews. 1. Tekonsha P3 Electronic Brake Controller. Check Price at Amazon. If you've been researching trailer brake controllers odds are you've seen the Tekonsha P3 listed as the top choice or best trailer brake controller a lot.

  12. Best Trailer Brake Controllers in 2022 Reviews &Top Picks

    Check out our recommendations for the best trailer brake controllers: 1. CURT 51140 TriFlex Electric 2. Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic 3. Reese Towpower (74642) Brakeman ... Reviews of My Top Recommendations. ... Best Luxury Travel Trailers - Top Picks & Reviews; Disclaimer. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Categories.

  13. Best Trailer Brake Controllers To Keep Your Cargo in Control

    Tips on Choosing a Trailer Brake Controller. Mounting Locations; Formats and Interfaces; Other Features to Consider; Top 10 Best Trailer Brake Controllers 2024. 1. Best Overall Brake Controller: Tekonsha Primus IQ; 2. Best-Looking Brake Controller: Curt Spectrum Original; 3. Best Premium Brake Controller: Tekonsha Prodigy RF; 4.

  14. CURT 51180 Echo Mobile Electric Trailer Brake Controller with Bluetooth

    Buy CURT 51180 Echo Mobile Electric Trailer Brake Controller with Bluetooth-Enabled Smartphone Connection ... #1 in Trailer Brake Controls; Customer Reviews: 4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars ... brake controller sends notifications to your smartphone if ever your trailer becomes overloaded or disconnected during travel. What's in the box ; 1 ECHO BRAKE ...

  15. The 10 Best Brake Controllers for Towing Trailers in 2024 ...

    Best Trailer Brake Controller for Easy Installation: Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ | Buy Now Best Brake Controller for Small Trailers or Light Loads: Reese Towpower 74642 Compact | Buy Now Best Brake Controller with Flex-Mount Display: Hopkins Towing Solutions 47297 INSIGHT Plug-In | Buy Now

  16. Amazon.com: Customer reviews: CURT 51160 Assure Electric Trailer Brake

    Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for CURT 51160 Assure Electric Trailer Brake Controller with Dynamic Screen and Full Text Readout, Proportional, Black at ... the initial settings and haven't had to manually change after about 1,500 miles towing approximately a 4,000 lb. travel trailer. From the gulf coast, Appalachians and east ...

  17. Amazon.com: Customer reviews: Tow-Pro Liberty Electric Brake Controller

    Performance; The controller worked perfect! Was super easy to adjust and stopping my travel trailer was like I was not towing anything at all. I have it set to level 4 pulling a 3500lb travel trailer. Oh and the RV place I bought from was selling this controller and wanted to charge $800 for parts and labor. Save yourself $600+ and do it yourself.

  18. Curt Echo Full Review

    Review of CURT Trailer Brake Controller - Proportional Controller - C51180 ... and in order to use the Curt Echo Mobile Trailer Brake Controller #C51180, it requires simply the 12 volt, ground, and turn signals be connected to the 7-way on your truck. ... I recommend the Curt RV Bumper 2 inch Trailer Hitch Receiver #E-100 for your 2020 Forest ...

  19. Elecbrakes

    RRP $649 for the controller, which can be wired direct into your trailer's electrics. The plug-n-play adapter is another $70, and you can choose your plugs, for example 7-pin to 12-pin. Additional adapters are $80. The app is free on Android and Apple, and the remote is $169. For more information click here.

  20. Autowbrake

    We decided to go for this brake controller for our BMW X5 and 3500 lbs Travel Trailer because we wanted a clean setup. Unfortunately the controller was incorrectly wired by our RV dealer (Option 2 instead of Option 1). This caused our brakes to melt. With perfect troubleshooting of Carlton from Autowbrake we found the solution by switching wires.

  21. Bluetooth Trailer Brake Controllers: Are They Safe?

    A trailer brake controller is a device that allows the driver to control the electric or hydraulic brakes on a trailer from within the towing vehicle. It ensures that the trailer brakes are synchronized with the vehicle's brakes, providing safer and smoother stops. It has a "gain" adjustment that allows you to set the amount of braking ...

  22. CURT 51140 TriFlex Electric Trailer Brake Controller, Proportional, 7 x

    Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for CURT 51140 TriFlex Electric Trailer Brake Controller, Proportional, 7 x 5 x 2.63 inches, Black at Amazon.com. Read honest and unbiased product reviews from our users ... Installed this for the electric brakes on my travel trailer. Easy to install and has worked great so far (3500 miles) ...

  23. Review of the Tekonsha Primus IQ Brake Controller

    In continuing my RV Product reviews next up is my Primus IQ Brake Controller. I've been using it for about 2 years now installed in my 1994 F350 Ford Truck towing 9000 lbs. worth of Keystone Cougar Fifth Wheel. I've logged around 35,000 in that time and been on all types of roads. I'm very pleased with the performance of the Tekonsha ...