When it comes to towing a trailer, safety should always be a top priority. One of the essential safety features to consider is the electric trailer brake controllers. This device provides the necessary braking force to stop a trailer safely and efficiently, helping to prevent accidents and minimize wear and tear on your vehicle’s brakes. With so many options on the market, choosing the right electric trailer brake controller can be overwhelming.
In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about electric trailer brake controllers, including how they work, the different types available, and what features to look for when selecting one for your trailer. So, whether you’re a seasoned trailer-towing veteran or a novice looking to increase your safety on the road, this guide has got you covered.
Table of Contents
- Tekonsha 90195 P3
- Reasons To Buy:
- Reasons To Avoid:
- Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control
- Reasons To Buy:
- Reasons To Avoid:
- Reese Towpower 74642
- Reasons To Buy:
- Reasons To Avoid:
- Tekonsha 9030 Voyager Electronic Brake Control
- Reasons To Buy:
- Reasons To Avoid:
- CURT 51120 Discovery
- Reasons To Buy:
- Reasons To Avoid:
- The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide:
Tekonsha 90195 P3
When it comes to towing, safety should always be the top priority. A reliable brake controller is an essential piece of equipment for any trailer, and the Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake Control is the perfect solution for all your towing needs.
This universal fit brake controller features a distinct, easy-to-read LCD display with multiple screen color options, making it easy to understand diagnostics show output current, battery, brake, and output voltage. Additionally, a flashing red warning system alerts you to No Trailer Brake situations, giving you peace of mind while on the road.
With the Tekonsha 90195 P3, you have the option to select Electric over Hydraulic or Electric trailer brake mode, making it versatile for different types of trailers. The Original Boost feature allows for different levels of customized braking, ensuring a smooth, safe, and comfortable stop.
One of the best features of the Tekonsha 90195 P3 is the ability to store multiple trailers and drivers’ settings, allowing you to switch between trailers without having to adjust the brake controller’s power output manually every time.
Installation is a breeze with multiple mounting options, including both a traditional mounting bracket and a snap-in mounting clip. Plus, the quick and easy disconnect feature makes it easy to connect and remove the controller when not in use.
One of the most impressive features of the Tekonsha 90195 P3 is its ability to work proportionally in reverse, allowing for smoother stopping when backing up without experiencing sudden braking jolts that can often be felt when using a time-based controller.
In conclusion, the Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake Control is the ultimate solution for your towing safety needs. With its customizable LCD readout, manual override, boost button, and ability to work proportionally in reverse, you can have peace of mind knowing that you and your trailer are safe on the road. Invest in the Tekonsha 90195 P3 today, and experience the ultimate in towing safety technology.
Reasons To Buy:
- Easy-to-read LCD display with customizable color options
- Up-Front controls for easy access to P3 features
- Provides easy-to-understand diagnostics
- Flashing red warning system for No Trailer Brake situations
- Selectable Electric over Hydraulic or Electric trailer brake mode
- Screen information display in multiple languages
- Original Boost feature for customized braking levels
- Compact and dash-hugging design
- Stores multiple trailers and drivers for convenience
- Quick and easy disconnect with plug-and-play wiring port
- Proportional braking in reverse for smoother stopping
Reasons To Avoid:
- May be more expensive than other brake controllers on the market
- Requires some knowledge of brake controller installation and wiring
- May not be compatible with all vehicle and trailer combinations
- May not provide enough braking power for extremely heavy loads
Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control
When it comes to towing a trailer, having reliable and efficient brakes is essential. And that’s where the Tekonsha Primus IQ electronic brake control comes in. As a trusted leader in towing safety, Tekonsha has been providing dependable brake controllers for over ten years.
The Primus IQ is a proportional braking system that delivers a smooth braking response in any stopping situation. It’s compact yet durable, with a petite exterior that fits neatly under the dash, making it easily accessible from the driver’s seat without getting in the way.
One of the standout features of the Primus IQ is its easy-to-read digital LED display, which allows you to quickly monitor your trailer brake settings and connection. You can view power output, boost, and more while a continuous diagnostic check monitors your connection and alerts you of any electrical issues.
The Primus IQ also includes a boost feature, allowing you to apply up to three levels of additional trailer braking power, especially when hauling heavier loads. And if you ever need to manually apply the trailer’s brakes, the sliding level override lets you increase the trailer’s braking at variable rates, giving you precise control.
Installation is a breeze with the Tekonsha Primus IQ. It utilizes a Plug-N-Play port for 2-plug adapters, and the snap-in dash mounting clip and hardware are included. The unit works proportionally in reverse, braking appropriately based on the deceleration of the tow vehicle, and is self-leveling within a 90-degree vertical range.
When you’re done towing, the Primus IQ is easy to remove and store. It includes a quick and easy disconnect plug and play wiring port that adapts to all Tekonsha 2-plug vehicle-specific brake controller wiring harnesses.
The Tekonsha Primus IQ electronic brake control is an excellent choice for those looking for a compact yet powerful braking system for their trailer. It works with trailers with 1-3 axles, and all necessary mounting hardware is included. Plus, it’s backed by a limited lifetime warranty for added peace of mind.
Whether you’re hauling a heavy load or navigating tricky terrain, the Primus IQ will provide you with the braking power and control you need to stay safe on the road.
Reasons To Buy:
- Easy to install with plug and play port
- Versatile mounting options
- Boost feature for heavy loads
- Self-leveling on any terrain
- Digital LED readout for monitoring brake settings
- Works proportionally in reverse
Reasons To Avoid:
- T-connector required for installation (sold separately)
- Not compatible with hydraulic braking systems
- May not be suitable for larger trailers with 4 or more axles
- Boost feature may be too aggressive for some users
- LED readout may be difficult to see in bright sunlight
Reese Towpower 74642
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient brake control system for your trailer, the Reese Towpower (74642) Brakeman Timed Compact Brake Control is an excellent choice. This compact brake control is designed for single and tandem axle trailers, and it’s completely compatible with anti-lock braking systems, making it a great option for safe trailer towing.
The Brakeman Timed Compact Brake Control is made of 100% solid-state construction, which means that it has no moving parts, no hydraulic connections, and no leveling required. This feature makes it a durable and long-lasting option for any towing situation. Additionally, the compact size of this brake control allows it to be mounted anywhere inside the passenger compartment, making it convenient and easy to access.
One of the unique features of the Brakeman Timed Compact Brake Control is its “sync” adjustment for towing different trailers. This feature allows you to adjust the braking power according to the weight of the trailer, ensuring safe and effective braking. The fingertip output controls and soft touch variable manual control also provide more precise and accurate braking.
Installation is easy with the included mounting bracket, hardware, and instructions. It’s designed for use on 12 volt negative ground systems only, and it’s compatible with 2 and 4 brake systems. The Time-Based Brake Controls generate an output signal that increases over a period of time (Ramp Cycle). The Time-Based Brake Controls apply braking power at a fixed rate that is NOT proportional to the pressure applied to the brake pedal.
When it comes to safety, the Brakeman Timed Compact Brake Control meets all National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA/DOT) regulations regarding tow vehicle/trailer stoplight activation. The red indicator light provides a visual signal that the braking system is working correctly.
In conclusion, the Reese Towpower (74642) Brakeman Timed Compact Brake Control is an excellent choice for safe and reliable trailer towing. With its solid-state construction, unique features, easy installation, and compliance with safety regulations, this brake control system is a smart investment for anyone who wants to ensure their trailer is safe on the road.
Reasons To Buy:
- Compatible with anti-lock braking systems.
- Solid-state construction with no moving parts or hydraulic connections.
- Sync adjustment for towing different trailers.
- Fingertip output controls and soft touch variable manual control.
- Easy installation with mounting bracket, hardware, and instructions included.
- Time-Based Brake Controls for precise and accurate braking.
- Red indicator light for visual signal that the braking system is working correctly.
- Meets all National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA/DOT) regulations regarding tow vehicle/trailer stoplight activation.
Reasons To Avoid:
- Designed for use on 12 volt negative ground systems only.
- Only suitable for single and tandem axle trailers.
- Braking power is NOT proportional to the pressure applied to the brake pedal.
Tekonsha 9030 Voyager Electronic Brake Control
Looking for a reliable and user-friendly trailer brake controller that enhances your towing safety? Look no further than the Tekonsha Voyager Electronic Brake Control, a tried-and-true proportional electric brake controller designed to provide automatic braking based on the intensity and rate of your tow vehicle’s brakes.
With patented braking sensor technology and advanced electronics, the Tekonsha Voyager offers a smooth and responsive braking experience in any stopping situation. Its bi-colored LED brake indicator provides an easy-to-read display of settings, diagnostics, and alerts, with a green light indicating a complete connection between your vehicle and trailer, and a red light showing relative braking power.
The Tekonsha Voyager is also incredibly easy to install, thanks to its Plug & Play feature and removable electrical connector. Its compact design and simple level knob make leveling during installation a breeze, and the controller is compatible with a wide range of vehicles and trailer brakes, including Ford, GM, Chevy, Dodge, RAM, Toyota, Jeep, and more with 2, 4, 6, and 8 brakes (1-4 axles).
The Voyager also offers manual braking through its control lever, allowing you to apply power to your trailer’s brakes up to the amount of power previously set. Plus, with all the mounting hardware needed for installation included in the package, the Voyager is a hassle-free and convenient choice for any towing enthusiast.
Whether you’re a professional hauler or a weekend warrior, the Tekonsha Voyager Electronic Brake Control is the perfect choice for enhancing your towing safety and ensuring a smooth and responsive braking experience. Plus, with a five-year limited warranty backing the product, you can rest assured that you’re investing in a reliable and trusted product.
So why wait? Upgrade your towing safety today with the Tekonsha Voyager Electronic Brake Control, and enjoy a hassle-free and secure towing experience on your next adventure.
Reasons To Buy:
- Provides automatic braking based on the intensity and rate of your tow vehicle’s brakes.
- Easy to install with Plug & Play feature and removable electrical connector.
- Bi-colored LED brake indicator provides an easy-to-read display of settings, diagnostics, and alerts.
- Compatible with a wide range of vehicles and trailer brakes.
- Allows manual braking through control lever.
Reasons To Avoid:
- Vehicle-specific Tekonsha Plug & Play brake controller wiring harness sold separately.
- May require some adjustment to find the optimal settings for your vehicle and trailer combination.
- Requires a certain level of technical knowledge for installation.
- May not be suitable for those who prefer a more hands-off approach to towing.
CURT 51120 Discovery
As a responsible trailer owner, ensuring safe and efficient braking is crucial. That’s where the CURT 51120 Discovery Electric Trailer Brake Controller comes in. With its reliable safety, easy-to-use features, and versatile compatibility, this brake controller is a must-have for any trailer owner.
The Discovery brake controller offers safe and dependable operation, increasing trailer brake pressure as you depress the vehicle brake pedal and bringing the vehicle and trailer to a smooth stop. This ensures the safety of you and your cargo, reducing the risk of accidents on the road.
Featuring an easy-to-read digital display, monitoring brake operation is a breeze. The simple and reliable design has no internal moving parts and no leveling required, making it easy to use and maintain.
The simple controls of the Discovery brake controller enable powerful brake operation, with a manual brake slider button, an adjustable power toggle, and adjustable ramp time. You can use this electric trailer brake controller on virtually any trailer with 1 to 4 axles (2 to 8 brakes), and it is compatible with low-volt, PWM, ABS, cruise control, and electric over hydraulic systems.
Setting up the Discovery brake controller is simple, with a CURT vehicle-specific quick plug harness (sold separately) that allows for easy installation. It comes with an adjustable mounting bracket and can be mounted at any angle, making it a versatile addition to your vehicle.
To maximize the effectiveness of the brake controller, it is recommended to mount it somewhere on the dash of your vehicle, below the steering wheel, either on the right or left side of the steering column. This way, the control will not block your view when driving, but it will remain accessible and visible when adjustments are needed.
In conclusion, the CURT 51120 Discovery Electric Trailer Brake Controller is an essential tool for any trailer owner. Achieving safe and efficient braking has never been easier with its reliable safety, easy-to-use features, powerful controls, and versatile compatibility. Invest in the Discovery brake controller today and experience worry-free towing on the road.
Reasons To Buy:
- Reliable and safe operation.
- Easy-to-read digital display for monitoring brake operation.
- Simple and reliable design with no internal moving parts and no leveling required.
- Powerful controls with a manual brake slider button, an adjustable power toggle, and adjustable ramp time.
- Compatible with low-volt, PWM, ABS, cruise control, and electric over hydraulic systems.
- Versatile compatibility with virtually any trailer with 1 to 4 axles (2 to 8 brakes).
- Simple setup with a CURT vehicle-specific quick plug harness (sold separately).
- Adjustable mounting bracket that can be mounted at any angle.
Reasons To Avoid:
- Quick plug harness is sold separately.
- May require professional installation.
- Not compatible with trailers with more than 4 axles or with air brakes.
- May not be suitable for very heavy loads or extreme towing conditions.
- May require periodic adjustments or maintenance.
The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide:
Are you in the market for an electric trailer brake controller but unsure of where to start? With so many options available, choosing the right one for your needs can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together the ultimate buyer’s guide to help you make an informed decision. Here are the key factors to consider when selecting an electric trailer brake controller:
1. Type: There are two main types of electric trailer brake controllers: proportional and time-delayed. Proportional controllers apply the trailer brakes in proportion to the tow vehicle’s brakes, providing a smoother and more responsive braking experience. Time-delayed controllers, on the other hand, apply a preset amount of braking force after a set time delay. Consider which type will work best for your towing needs.
2. Installation: Some electric trailer brake controllers are easier to install than others. Consider whether you have the necessary technical knowledge and tools to install the controller yourself, or if you’ll need to hire a professional.
3. Compatibility: Make sure the electric trailer brake controller you choose is compatible with your tow vehicle and trailer. Check the controller’s specifications to ensure it can handle the weight of your trailer and has the appropriate connector type for your vehicle.
4. Braking Power: The braking power of an electric trailer brake controller is measured in amperage output. Consider the size and weight of your trailer to determine the appropriate level of braking power needed for safe and efficient towing.
5. Features: Electric trailer brake controllers come with a range of features, such as LED displays, diagnostic alerts, and multiple trailer memory settings. Consider which features are important to you and will enhance your towing experience.
6. Budget: Electric trailer brake controllers vary in price, from budget-friendly options to high-end models with advanced features. Consider your budget and weigh the cost against the features and benefits you’ll gain.
By taking these factors into account, you can select an electric trailer brake controller that meets your needs and provides a safer, more controlled towing experience.