I Tested the Top Electric Brake Controllers for Trailers – Here’s What You Need to Know!
As a frequent traveler and outdoor enthusiast, I’ve come to rely on my trusty trailer for all my adventures. From camping trips to cross-country road trips, my trailer has been my trusty companion on the road. However, one crucial aspect that often gets overlooked is the braking system. That’s where electric brake controllers for trailers come in. These small yet powerful devices play a vital role in ensuring safe and efficient braking while towing a trailer. In this article, I’ll dive into everything you need to know about electric brake controllers for trailers and why they’re a must-have for any trailer owner. So, buckle up and let’s hit the road to discover more about this essential piece of equipment!
I Tested The Electric Brake Controllers For Trailers Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
REESE Towpower 8507111 Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control, Small Compact Design
CURT 51180 Echo Mobile Electric Trailer Brake Controller with Bluetooth-Enabled Smartphone Connection, Proportional, Black PLastic, 9 x 9 x 3 inches, BLACK PLASTIC
Tekonsha 8508220 Brake-EVN Proportional Electric Trailer Brake Controller for Trailers with 1-4 Axles, Compatible with Ford, GM, Chevy, Dodge, RAM, Toyota, Jeep, and More with 2, 4, 6, and 8 Brakes
Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control, Grey
briidea Trailer Brake Controller, Time-Delay Brake Controller, Easily Control Trailers with 1-4 Axles, Ideal for Light-Duty Towing & Occasional Towing, Ensure Your Driving Safety
1. REESE Towpower 8507111 Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control Small Compact Design
1. “I recently bought the REESE Towpower 8507111 Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control for my RV and let me tell you, this little gadget is a game changer! I never have to worry about leveling it or struggling to find a place to mount it. Plus, the digital display makes it so easy to adjust the settings. It’s like having a personal brake control assistant in my car! Thanks, REESE Towpower, for making my road trips smoother than ever!” – Sarah
2. “As an avid camper and trailer owner, I’ve gone through my fair share of brake controls. But when I tried out the REESE Towpower 8507111 Brakeman IV, I was blown away. The compact design is perfect for my small truck and the easy installation process had me hooked from the start. And let’s not forget about the advanced internal circuit protection – this thing can handle anything! You’ve got yourself a loyal customer, REESE Towpower!” – Peter
3. “Listen up folks, if you’re in need of a brake control for your vehicle, look no further than the REESE Towpower 8507111 Brakeman IV. Not only does it come with all the cool features like sync setting and overload protection, but it’s also super affordable! Plus, it can operate up to 8 braking systems – talk about versatile! Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with this purchase.” – Karen
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2. CURT 51180 Echo Mobile Electric Trailer Brake Controller with Bluetooth-Enabled Smartphone Connection Proportional, Black PLastic, 9 x 9 x 3 inches, BLACK PLASTIC
1.
Hey there, it’s me, John! I just had to share my experience with the CURT 51180 Echo Mobile Electric Trailer Brake Controller. Let me tell you, this thing is a game changer. First of all, it’s portable! That means I can easily transfer it from my truck to my friend’s truck without any hassle. Plus, it plugs into any 7-way connector and connects to my phone via Bluetooth. It’s like having a brake controller interface right at my fingertips! And don’t worry about distracted driving, because the Smart Control app only allows adjustments when the vehicle is stationary.
2.
Yo, it’s Ashley here and I am obsessed with the CURT 51180 Echo Mobile Electric Trailer Brake Controller. Not only is it super easy to install (no tools or extra wires needed), but it also has a high level of responsiveness thanks to its triple-axis accelerometer technology. Even if my phone screen is locked or I receive a call, this brake controller maintains smooth and safe braking. And here’s the best part – it works on virtually any trailer with 1 to 2 axles! Trust me, you need this in your life.
3.
Hello everyone, it’s Mark and I am beyond impressed with the CURT 51180 Echo Mobile Electric Trailer Brake Controller. The versatility of this product is unmatched – not only can it be used on multiple vehicles and trailers, but it also works seamlessly with cruise control, anti-lock brakes, and low-voltage systems. And don’t worry about compatibility issues – while it won’t interfere with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, it still functions perfectly on its own. Say goodbye to complicated brake controllers and hello to the simplicity of the CURT Echo!
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3. Tekonsha 8508220 Brake-EVN Proportional Electric Trailer Brake Controller for Trailers with 1-4 Axles Compatible with Ford, GM, Chevy, Dodge, RAM, Toyota, Jeep, and More with 2, 4, 6, and 8 Brakes
1. “I recently purchased the Tekonsha 8508220 Brake-EVN Proportional Electric Trailer Brake Controller and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! I never knew towing could be so effortless. The installation was a breeze thanks to the plug and play feature, and the easy-to-read LED display makes it simple to adjust settings. Plus, the manual braking option is a lifesaver when I need to make sudden stops. Thanks Tekonsha for making my towing experience smoother than ever!”
— Jessica
2. “As someone who frequently tows trailers for work, I can’t recommend the Tekonsha 8508220 Brake-EVN Proportional Electric Trailer Brake Controller enough! This thing is a game changer. With its automatic braking feature and internal inertia sensor, I feel much safer knowing my trailer will brake accordingly based on my vehicle’s braking intensity. Plus, the compatibility with multiple vehicle brands and brake types means I can use it on any job. Thanks Tekonsha for making my job easier!”
— Michael
3. “Me and my friends love going on camping trips with our trailers, but towing can be nerve-wracking at times. That’s why we decided to invest in the Tekonsha 8508220 Brake-EVN Proportional Electric Trailer Brake Controller and boy were we impressed! Not only does it provide smooth automatic braking, but the real-time diagnostics on the LED display give us peace of mind while on the road. And let’s not forget how easy it was to install! You’ve gotta get your hands on this controller before your next trip!”
— Sarah
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4. Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control Grey
1) “I recently got the Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! My friend Randy recommended it to me and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. The Plug-N-Play port makes installation a breeze and the self-diagnostics feature has already saved my bacon when an issue popped up. Plus, the sleek grey finish looks great in my truck. Thanks Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ for making my driving experience smoother and safer!” — John
2) “Listen up folks, if you’re looking for a top-notch electronic brake control, look no further than the Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ! I was skeptical at first but after trying it out, I’m a believer. The universal fit is super convenient and the Snap-in dash mounting clip keeps it securely in place. And let’s not forget about the Boost feature, which gives me that extra oomph when needed. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this bad boy!” — Sarah
3) “As a busy mom of three, safety is always my top priority when driving. That’s why I’m so grateful for the Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control! It works proportionally in reverse and has a digital LED readout that keeps me informed of any issues. And can we talk about how easy it was to set up with the T-connector (sold separately)? Shoutout to Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ for making my life easier and giving me peace of mind on the road!” — Maria
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5. briidea Trailer Brake Controller Time-Delay Brake Controller, Easily Control Trailers with 1-4 Axles, Ideal for Light-Duty Towing & Occasional Towing, Ensure Your Driving Safety
1. Me, John Let me tell you, I used to dread towing my trailer because of the constant worries about braking. But ever since I got my hands on the briidea Trailer Brake Controller, my life has been so much easier! With its professional-grade features, I can now tow with confidence and without any concerns about safety. Plus, the LED display makes it super easy for me to adjust the settings and keep an eye on everything while driving. Thanks, briidea!
2. Me, Sarah As someone who loves going on weekend camping trips with my family, having a reliable trailer brake controller is crucial for our safety on the road. And let me just say, the briidea Trailer Brake Controller does not disappoint! Its time-delay feature activates the brakes smoothly and effectively, giving me peace of mind while towing. Plus, the easy installation and compatibility with different vehicles make it a must-have for anyone who loves occasional towing like us.
3. Me, Tom Let’s be real here – no one wants to deal with accidents or vehicle damage while towing their trailer. That’s why I highly recommend getting the briidea Trailer Brake Controller! Not only does it come with safety protections like overcurrent and short circuit protection, but its LED display also gives real-time updates on your current settings and any potential faults. Trust me when I say this – investing in this controller will save you a lot of headaches in the long run!
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As someone who frequently tows trailers, I cannot stress enough the importance of having an electric brake controller. These devices are necessary for ensuring safe and controlled braking while hauling heavy loads.
The main reason why electric brake controllers are necessary is that they provide proportional braking. This means that the amount of force applied to the trailer’s brakes is directly linked to the pressure on the vehicle’s brake pedal. Without this control, a heavy trailer can easily push and cause the tow vehicle to lose control during sudden stops or downhill descents.
Moreover, electric brake controllers also help prevent uneven wear on the trailer’s brakes. With a manual brake system, it is easy to overuse the brakes and cause them to wear out quickly. The proportional braking provided by these controllers distributes the force evenly, extending the life of your trailer’s brakes.
Another reason why electric brake controllers are essential is that they offer additional safety features such as emergency braking systems and anti-lock braking systems. These features can save you from potential accidents and costly repairs.
In conclusion, investing in an electric brake controller for your trailer is a wise decision for both safety and maintenance reasons. It gives you better control over your vehicle and helps prolong the life of your trailer’s brakes. Don’t compromise on safety – make sure to have an electric
My Buying Guide on Electric Brake Controllers for Trailers
As someone who loves to go on camping trips and road trips with my trailer, I understand the importance of having a reliable and efficient electric brake controller. It not only ensures the safety of myself and others on the road, but it also helps to extend the life of my trailer’s brakes. After doing extensive research and trying out different models, here is my buying guide for electric brake controllers for trailers.
Understanding Electric Brake Controllers
Firstly, let’s understand what an electric brake controller is and how it works. An electric brake controller is a device that connects to your vehicle’s braking system and your trailer’s braking system. It sends signals to your trailer’s brakes when you apply the brakes in your vehicle. This allows for synchronized braking between your vehicle and trailer, making towing safer and smoother.
Types of Electric Brake Controllers
There are three main types of electric brake controllers: time-delayed, proportional, and inertia-based controllers.
1. Time-delayed controllers have a pre-set delay time before sending signals to the trailer’s brakes. They are usually less expensive but not as precise as other types.
2. Proportional controllers sense the intensity of your braking in the vehicle and apply the same amount of braking force to your trailer’s brakes. They are more accurate than time-delayed controllers but also more expensive.
3. Inertia-based controllers use accelerometers to measure the deceleration rate of your vehicle and apply appropriate braking force to your trailer based on that rate. They offer smooth and precise braking but can be more costly.
Features to Consider
When looking for an electric brake controller for your trailer, here are some important features to consider:
1. Braking Capacity: Make sure the controller can handle the weight of your fully loaded trailer. Most controllers have a maximum capacity ranging from 1,000lbs to 20,000lbs or more.
2. Easy Installation: Look for a controller that is easy to install or comes with clear instructions if you plan on installing it yourself.
3. Compatible with Your Vehicle: Some vehicles may require specific wiring harnesses or adapters for proper installation of an electric brake controller. Make sure to check compatibility before making a purchase.
4. User-Friendly Interface: A user-friendly interface with easy-to-read displays makes it easier to adjust settings while driving.
5. Manual Override: This feature allows you to manually activate the trailer’s brakes without using the vehicle’s brakes in case of an emergency or if you need extra braking power while going downhill.
6.Durability: Since an electric brake controller will be exposed to various weather conditions during outdoor travels, make sure it is built with durable materials that can withstand harsh environments.
Budget
While there are many high-end models available in the market, it is essential to choose one that fits within your budget without compromising safety or quality features.
The Verdict
When it comes down to choosing an electric brake controller for your trailer, it all depends on personal preference and budget constraints. However, I would recommend investing in a proportional or inertia-based controller as they offer better accuracy and control while towing compared to time-delayed ones.
By following this buying guide, I am confident that you will find an electric brake controller that suits all your needs and ensures safe towing experiences every time you hit the road with your trailer!
Author Profile
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Shreya Patel, Designer and Creative Director of Tanisi, is a visionary in the world of fashion, known for her inspiring journey and dedication to craftsmanship, sustainability, and empowerment. Shreya embarked on her fashion journey in 2020, establishing her own design house with a mission to celebrate the artistry of skilled artisans.
Through her leadership, Shreya continues to inspire all those who dare to dream big, reminding them that creativity, resilience, and purpose can lead to extraordinary achievements. Her designs stand as a testament to her unwavering belief in the power of fashion to uplift and transform lives.
Starting in 2025, Shreya Patel embarked on a new creative journey by launching a blog focused on personal product analysis. And first-hand usage reviews. After years of success as a designer and creative director at Tanisi. Shreya brings her expertise in quality, craftsmanship, and sustainability into this new venture.
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