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 â 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 â 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 phoneâs Bluetooth menu. Avoid distracted driving and only make adjustments when stationary.
- ZERO-TOOL INSTALL â 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 â 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 â 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.
- 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
- đăPROPORTIONAL ELECTRIC BRAKE CONTROLLERăLrichy 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.
- đăWIDE COMPATIBILITYăThis 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)
- đăSIMPLE SETUP & USEăFeaturing 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.
- đăEASY MOUNTING & STORAGEăIncludes 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.
- đăSATISFACTION GUARANTEEăLrichy 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 Braking System for Smooth Stops: The brake controller ensures that your trailer brakes are applied in proportion to your vehicle's braking intensity. This advanced system guarantees seamless, consistent stops, making it suitable for all types of trailers, from light utility trailers to heavy-duty commercial ones.
- Clear and Informative Digital Display: The trailer brake controller kit features an easy-to-read digital screen that provides real-time information about your trailer brake settings and connection status. With continuous diagnostics, you'll be instantly notified of any issues, allowing you to address them before they escalate.
- Customizable Braking with Manual Override and Boost: Adjust your trailer's braking power on the go with the sliding manual override lever. The three selectable boost settings let you fine-tune the braking response, perfect for managing different towing loads and driving conditions.
- Effortless Installation and Flexible Mounting: With a plug-and-play wiring setup, the electric brake controller is designed for quick and straightforward installation. The controller offers flexible mounting options, including a snap-in clip and traditional bracket, allowing it to be easily positioned within a 180-degree range.
- Dependable Performance Backed by Lifetime Service: Built with self-leveling technology and advanced circuit protection, the brake controller for trailer is designed for reliable performance across various terrains. Supported by a lifetime after-sales service and a no-hassle return policy, you can tow with confidence knowing youâre fully covered.
- Fitment:The Brakeman IV digital brake controller is designed for broad compatibility with a wide range of vehicles and trailers,including Ford,GM,Chevy,Dodge,RAM,Toyota,Jeep,as well as trucks,RVs,tour buses,and other vehicles equipped with 1 to 4 axles (supporting 2-,4-,6-,and 8-brake systems).
- Time-Delayed Brake Activation: The controller allows for precise control of braking over a set time delay, ensuring smoother braking transitions and reducing jerky or abrupt stops when towing a trailer.improving overall towing safety.
- LED Display for Clear Status Indication: Equipped with an LED display that clearly shows the current braking force, allowing users to monitor and adjust the settings for optimal performance.Adjustable brake force and consistent braking performance.
- Easy Installation: Compact and durable Design for simple installation,ensuring long-lasting performance. This controller can be quickly mounted in most vehicles with minimal effort, saving time and installation costs.
- Package Include: 1 x Brake Controller, 1 x mounting bracket, 6 x mounting screws, 1x instruction.
- 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
- PROFESSIONAL TRAILER BRAKE CONTROLLER: Ensure safe towing with the Briidea professional trailer brake controller. Designed for reliability, it gives you peace of mind by ensuring smooth braking, significantly reducing the risk of accidents and vehicle damage
- TIME-DELAY TRAILER BRAKE CONTROLLER: The time delay brake controller can activate the trailer brake by applying varying power within a set period of time. Once engaged, the LED display conveniently shows the gain setting, ensuring your safety while driving
- SAFETY PROTECTION: Our trailer brake controllers has advanced overcurrent protection, short circuit protection and fault detection for your road safety. With LED display, real-time display of your current Settings, output voltage and fault diagnosis, so that you can solve problems in a timely manner
- EASY TO INSTALL: Includes a versatile mounting bracket and accessories for installation in any position or angle. For optimal placement, we recommend mounting it under the dashboard to ensure it doesn't obstruct your view while driving. This allows you to conveniently operate and monitor trailer brake activity from the cab
- COMPATIBILITY: The trailer brake controller kit is compatible with any vehicle now your driving, designed to operate 1 to 4 braked axles (2- 8 brakes), ideal for light duty towing and Occasional towing, etc
- ăIntelligent brakingăProportional 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
- ăEasy to displayăLED 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
- ăSafer and more stableăFits 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
- ăQuick installation and useăWiring 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
- ă4 Wiring & controlsăBLACK-Vehicle Power, RED-Stop Light, WHITE-Vehicle Ground, BLUE-Trailer Brakes
- Slim, low-profile design for a functional, modern aesthetic
- Unique bracket system for improved dash clearance
- Fully adjustable power and ramp time
- Operates 2-8 trailer brakes at a time (1-4 axles)
- No internal moving parts and no leveling required
- [Vehicle Fitment-1]: Compatible with Chevrolet Avalanche/Silverado 1500 2008-2013, Silverado 2500 HD/3500 HD 2007-2014, Suburban 1500/Tahoe 2008-2014, Suburban 2500 2007-2013
- [Vehicle Fitment-2]: Compatible with Cadillac Escalade/Escalade ESV 2008-2014, Escalade EXT 2008-2013; Compatible with GMC Sierra 1500 2008-2013, Sierra 2500 HD/3500 HD 2007-2014, Yukon/Yukon XL 1500 2008-2014, Yukon XL 2500 2007-2013
- [Reference Number]: The A-Premium Trailer Brake Control Module's reference number:15926102, 15823719, 601226. Before placing an order, verify that the part is compatible with your vehicle using the compatibility system
- [Specifications]: â Location: Front Center; âĄTerminal Quantity: 8 Pins; â˘Color: Black; âŁMaterial: Metal, Plastic
- [Buy with Confidence]: A-Premium offers a one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee on our meticulously crafted trailer brake control swicth. We offer a wide variety of automotive accessory categories, ensuring that you can hit the road with peace of mind.
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 vehicleâs 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 trailerâs 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 trailerâs 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 trailerâs 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.