The brakes on your trailer are vitally important for safe trailer towing and for protecting your car or truck from damage. In addition to checking the brakes regularly, you’ll also want to make sure that the brakes are working properly when you’re towing. That’s where a set of trailer brake controls come in. You can use the brakes on your car or truck’s steering column, but if you have an older car or one without power brakes, using the brakes on your car to slow down a trailer can be difficult. That’s where trailer brake controls come in.
Here’s what to look for when shopping for trailer brake controls.
Our Editor’s Best Trailer Brake Controls Reviews
- PORTABLE — The Echo wireless trailer brake controller has a non-invasive, zero-tool install and easily transfers from one vehicle to another. It plugs between compatible vehicle and trailer 7-way RV blade connectors and wirelessly links to your smartphone using Bluetooth.
- SMARTPHONE-READY — Echo wirelessly syncs with your Apple or Android phone through the OneControl app, turning it into a brake controller interface for setup, brake adjustment and profile storage. Pair through the app, not the phone’s Bluetooth menu. Avoid distracted driving and only make adjustments when stationary.
- ZERO-TOOL INSTALL — Installing this mobile trailer brake controller is as easy as plugging into a compatible active 7-way RV blade connector with +12V power and ground. A locking tab and included retention strap help keep it firmly connected; strap is stored inside the cap.
- HIGHLY RESPONSIVE — Echo uses a triple-axis accelerometer to provide smooth proportional trailer braking. It maintains responsive braking when your phone screen is locked, receives incoming calls or if the Bluetooth connection is lost after setup.
- VERSATILE — This wireless electric trailer brake controller transfers between compatible vehicles and trailers and works with most trailers with 1 to 2 axles / 2 to 4 brakes. Compatible with cruise control, anti-lock brakes and low-voltage systems; vehicle 7-way must be active for operation.
- Slim, low-profile design for a functional, modern aesthetic
- Unique bracket system for improved dash clearance
- Fully adjustable power and ramp time
- Operates 2-6 trailer brakes at a time (1-3 axles)
- No internal moving parts and no leveling required
- Fits for: 2014-2018 GMC Sierra 1500; 2015-2019 GMC Sierra 2500HD 3500HD / Chevy Silverado 1500 2500 3500; 2016-2020 Chevy Suburban Tahoe GMC / Yukon Yukon XL; 2016-2021 Chevy Colorado / GMC Canyon; 2019-2020 Chevy Silverado 4500 HD 5500 HD 6500 HD
- Replace Part Number: 84108373 23145874 601226
- Why you need to replace: Malfunctioning brake, Inconsistent braking, Warning light, Physical damage, Electrical Issue
- High quality: Ex-factory test, quality control, A+ performance, perfect Match, Plug and play, DIY Friendly
- Tech Support: Quick Response, Professional experienced team
- 【Intelligent braking】Proportional controllers are the safest and most responsive braking system you can install.Proportional trailer brake controllers automatically sense when your tow vehicle slows down or stops. This type of brake controller will replicate your own braking intensity for your trailer's brakes, whether you slow to a gradual stop or have to slam on your brakes
- 【Easy to display】LED Digital display screens show the voltage delivery going from the brake controller to the trailer's brakes. Easy to read, easy to observe vehicle conditions in real time.In case of emergencies, make adjustments in time
- 【Safer and more stable】Fits 1 to 4 axle (2 to 8 brakes) trailers to deliver a signal from your vehicle's brakes to your trailer,both quantity of braking power (result) and rate of the program (sync) can be adjusted to fit your inclination, the street conditions, and kind of trailer,increase the safety of driving.Requires no leveling
- 【Quick installation and use】Wiring ports are available for vehicle-specific brake controller harnesses and provide a quick connection between the controller and the towing vehicle for quick and easy installation or removal
- 【4 Wiring & controls】BLACK-Vehicle Power, RED-Stop Light, WHITE-Vehicle Ground, BLUE-Trailer Brakes
- 【Proportional Braking Control】Designed to apply trailer brakes in proportion to your vehicle's deceleration, helping reduce stopping distance, minimize trailer sway, and provide smoother, more predictable braking performance while towing
- 【Self-Leveling for Hassle-Free Setup】Built-in leveling technology automatically adjusts to the mounting angle after installation, eliminating the need for manual calibration and ensuring consistent braking response every time you tow
- 【3-Level Boost Adjustment】Choose from three boost settings to increase initial braking power when towing heavier trailers, boats, campers, or cargo loads. Easily adapt braking performance to different towing conditions
- 【Easy-to-Read Digital Display】Bright LED display provides clear visibility of output voltage, connection status, and diagnostic alerts. Monitor your trailer brake system quickly and confidently, day or night
- 【Built for Everyday Towing】Compatible with most 12V electric trailer brake systems on trailers with 1 to 3 axles. Ideal for RVs, travel trailers, utility trailers, horse trailers, and boat trailers. Includes mounting bracket and hardware for convenient installation
- 🏆【TIME DELAYED DIGITAL BRAKE CONTROLLER】Gradually increases braking force at a fixed rate so that braking force gradually increases over a certain period. This makes the Lrichy 8507111 time-delay brake controller ideal for basic towing needs
- 🏆【WIDE COMPATIBILITY】This brake controller replaces the 8507111 Time-Delay Brake IV. It's compatible with various vehicles including Ford, GM, Chevy, Dodge, RAM, Toyota, Jeep, and more with 2, 4, 6, and 8 brakes (1-4 axles). NOTE: Vehicle-Specific Plug & Play Harness Not Included
- 🏆【SIMPLE SETUP & USE】A detailed instruction manual with an easy-to-read LED digital display makes it easy to show settings, real-time diagnostic information, and alarms. For manual braking, simply move the manual lever to the left. Braking force will be applied to the trailer braking system based on the previously set braking force
- 🏆【EASY MOUNTING】Includes brackets and screws for simple installation. Features a plug-and-play port for easy disconnection. No horizontal installation required, can be installed in any direction
- 🏆【SATISFACTION GUARANTEE】Lrichy attaches great importance to product quality and customer shopping experience! We provide 2 Years of warranty service and a refund for product quality issues! If you have any problems, you can contact us via Amazon! Free exchange and refund policy for a truly hassle-free after-sales service!
- Smooth, Safe Braking – Proportional braking system ensures your trailer brakes match your vehicle's deceleration, delivering a smoother, more controlled stop every time
- Self-Leveling Technology – No need to manually level the controller. Our smart internal sensor auto-adjusts for accurate braking response regardless of installation angle
- Customizable Boost Modes – Three boost settings let you fine-tune braking power for heavy loads or emergency stops, giving you added confidence on the road
- Clear Digital Readout – Backlit LED screen displays real-time voltage, connection status, and diagnostics, helping you monitor trailer brake performance at a glance
- Quick, Clean Installation – Installs under the dash with included mounting clip. Plug-and-play compatible with vehicle-specific wiring harnesses (sold separately)
- 🏆【PROPORTIONAL ELECTRIC BRAKE CONTROLLER】Lrichy trailer brake controller utilizes internal inertia sensors to automatically apply trailer brakes based on your tow vehicle's braking intensity and speed, ensuring smooth and reliable stopping power in various conditions, including general and heavy-duty emergency braking.
- 🏆【WIDE COMPATIBILITY】This proportional controller can replace the Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ, compatible with Ford, GM, Chevy, Dodge, RAM, Toyota, Jeep, supporting 2, 4, or 6 brake electric brake trailers. (NOTE: Vehicle-specific plug-and-play harness is not included)
- 🏆【SIMPLE SETUP & USE】Featuring an easy-to-read LED digital display that shows settings, real-time diagnostics, and alerts, this controller comes with a clear instruction manual for straightforward setup. For manual braking, simply adjust the control lever to apply the preset braking force as needed.
- 🏆【EASY MOUNTING & STORAGE】Includes a snap-in dash mounting clip, an adjustable-angle screw-mounted bracket, a Plug & Play port for two plug adapters, and a removable electrical connector so the unit can be easily adjusted, unplugged, unclipped, and stored.
- 🏆【SATISFACTION GUARANTEE】Lrichy attaches great importance to product quality and customer shopping experience! We provide 2 Years of warranty service and a refund for any product quality issues! If you have any problems, you can contact us via Amazon! Free exchange and refund policy for a truly hassle-free after-sales service!
- Proportional Mode Brake for Everyday Towing: The Tow-Pro Liberty delivers Proportional Mode braking for smooth on-road control. Easy to install and use, the system reduces push and pull for ultimate towing confidence on roads and highways
- Universal Brake Controller for SUVs & Trucks: Pair with the universal pig tail wiring harness (TPH-025) or one of our vehicle specific brake controller wiring harnesses and switch inserts for factory-style integration (each sold separately)
- What’s Included: Tow-Pro Liberty Electric Brake Controller, Remote Head Assembly, Remote Head Nut, Remote Head Knob, Remote Head Bezel, Remote Head Cable 3’3” (1 m). Supports 1–2 axles. Fits most common trailer braking applications
- No Knee-Knocking and Sway Control: Compact dash dial blends seamlessly into your vehicle while Active Calibration and sway control deliver smooth braking, with or without a trailer to stay steady on roads
- Confidence for The Long Haul: Designed and torture-tested in the Australian Outback, it's engineered for the toughest towing conditions. Trusted for 45+ years, REDARC offers a 2 year limited warranty on this trailer brake controller
- 🏆【PROPORTIONAL ELECTRIC BRAKE CONTROLLER】Lrichy brake controller uses internal sensors to automatically apply trailer brakes based on your tow vehicle's braking intensity and speed. It intelligently sets the correct braking level and adjusts for hills, delivering reliable stopping power in any situation
- 🏆【WIDE COMPATIBILITY】This proportional controller replaces the Brake-EVN 8508220 and has Smoother braking than the 8507111 Time-Delay Brake IV. It's compatible with various vehicles including Ford, GM, Chevy, Dodge, RAM, Toyota, Jeep, and more with 2, 4, 6, and 8 brakes (1-4 axles). NOTE: Vehicle-Specific Plug & Play Harness Not Included
- 🏆【SIMPLE SETUP & USE】A detailed instruction manual with an easy-to-read LED digital display makes it easy to show settings, real-time diagnostic information, and alarms. For manual braking, simply move the manual lever to the left. Braking force will be applied to the trailer braking system based on the previously set braking force
- 🏆【EASY MOUNTING】Includes brackets and screws for simple installation. Features a plug-and-play port for easy disconnection
- 🏆【SATISFACTION GUARANTEE】Lrichy attaches great importance to product quality and customer shopping experience! We provide 2 Years of warranty service and a refund for product quality issues! If you have any problems, you can contact us via Amazon! Free exchange and refund policy for a truly hassle-free after-sales service!
Best Trailer Brake Controls Buying Guide
Before choosing the best trailer brake controls you should consider following options:
1. Electric Brake Controls: Electric brake controls are designed to provide a smooth and consistent feel to the driver and reduce wear and tear on the brakes.
Electric controls are typically powered by a 12-volt battery and can be installed with or without a proportional system.
A proportional control uses the vehicle’s existing ABS system, which allows the driver to modulate brake pressure for a smooth braking feel. An non-proportional control uses a manual switch to enable the trailer brakes.
2. Air Brake Systems: Air brakes systems typically consist of dual-tired wheels and an air-brake actuator that uses air pressure to activate the brakes.
Air brakes are typically used for large trailers, such as heavy-haul or travel trailers, and are considered the most powerful type of braking system.
The main advantage of air brakes is that they provide a smooth and consistent feel to the driver and reduce wear and tear on the brakes. The main disadvantage of air brakes is that they require a constant supply of pressurized air, which is often supplied by a separate onboard generator or pump.
3. Electric Hydro Brake Systems: Electric hydro systems are similar to electric brake controls, but use hydraulic fluid instead of air to activate the brakes.
Hydro systems are typically used for smaller trailers, such as car haulers, travel trailers, and utility trailers, and are easier to install than air brakes. The main advantage of hydro brakes is that they provide a smooth and consistent feel to the driver and reduce wear and tear on the brakes. The main disadvantage of hydro brakes is that they require a constant supply of fluid, which is often supplied by a separate onboard pump.
4. Electric Mechanical Brake Systems: Electric mechanical systems are typically used for travel trailers and camping trailers and consist of an electric or manual actuator that is connected to the trailer’s existing trailer brakes.
The main advantage of mechanical brake controls is that they are easy to install and are typically less expensive than electric or air brakes. The main disadvantage of mechanical brakes is that they typically provide a jerky feel to the driver.
5. Manual Mechanical Brake Systems: Manual mechanical systems consist of a manual actuator that is connected to the trailer’s existing trailer brakes.
The main advantage of manual brakes is that they provide a smooth feel to the driver. The main disadvantage of manual brakes is that they are typically more expensive than electric or air brakes.
6. Electric Draw-Tight Brake Controls: Electric draw-tight controls are typically used for car haulers and utility trailers and consist of an electric actuator that is connected to the trailer’s existing trailer brakes.
The main advantage of draw-tight controls is that they provide a smooth feel to the driver. The main disadvantage of draw-tight controls is that they require a constant supply of electricity.
7. Air-over-Hydraulic Brake Controls: Air-over-hydraulic systems are typically used for travel trailers and heavy-haul trailers and consist of dual-tired wheels with an air-brake actuator and a hydraulic brake actuator.
The main advantage of air-over-hydraulic brakes is that they provide a smooth feel to the driver. The main disadvantage of air-over-hydraulic systems is that they require a constant supply of pressurized air and pressurized hydraulic fluid.
8. Air-over-Electric Brake Controls: Air-over-electric systems are typically used for heavy-haul trailers and consist
What else you should know about trailer brake controls
1. What are trailer brake controls?
Trailer brake controls are devices that help to regulate the braking system of a trailer. They are often used in conjunction with an electronic stability control system to ensure that the trailer brakes are applied evenly and correctly in order to avoid skidding or accidents.
2. How do trailer brake controls work?
Most trailer brake controls work by using a lever to apply pressure to a hydraulic system that then applies the brakes on the trailer.
3. What are the benefits of trailer brake controls?
Some benefits of trailer brake controls are that they can give the driver more control over the trailer, they can help to prevent trailer sway, and they can help to make braking smoother and more consistent.
4. Are trailer brake controls required by law?
There is no federal law that requires trailer brakes, but some states have laws that require them on certain types of trailers.
5. How do I choose the right trailer brake controller for my vehicle?
The best way to choose the right trailer brake controller for your vehicle is to consult with a professional. They will be able to help you select the right model for your specific vehicle and needs.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best trailer brake controls. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best trailer brake controls will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.