Trailer Brake Controllers | Essential for Safe Towing

A brake controller is a device installed in the tow vehicle, or on the trailer with a wireless connection to the tow vehicle, that activates the trailer's brakes proportionally to the tow vehicle's braking action.

Without a properly installed and configured brake controller, the trailer's electric brakes will not function, even if the necessary wiring is present on the trailer.

This poses a serious safety risk, as the trailer's weight can significantly impact the towing vehicle's braking performance, especially when heavily loaded.

There are two main types of electronic brake controllers:

1. Proportional controllers: These utilize an accelerometer to detect the tow vehicle's deceleration and apply the appropriate amount of brake force to the trailer's brakes. The harder you brake, the more force the controller applies to the trailer's brakes.

2. Time-delayed controllers: These allow you to select a gain setting that determines the amount of braking force to apply. This force will be applied regardless of whether you're coming to a slow stop or braking abruptly.

Many states and provinces have specific laws regarding trailer brakes. In the United States, federal law requires trailers with a loaded weight exceeding 3,000 pounds to have a braking system. This system requires a trailer brake controller to operate the trailer's brakes effectively.

If your tow vehicle does not have a factory-installed brake controller, you will need to install an aftermarket unit. This typically involves mounting the controller in an accessible location, connecting it to the vehicle's wiring harness, and securing the necessary wires.

Once installed, the brake controller will need to be adjusted for optimal performance. This includes setting the gain (braking force) and adjusting the maximum braking output based on the size of the load you're towing.