Do you need a trailer brake controller for a Chevy Silverado?

Do you need a trailer brake controller for a Chevy Silverado?

Unfortunately, GM chose not to make trailer brake controllers standard with the HD towing option. For those of you who have a trailer with electronic brakes, this means you’ll need to install one yourself.

Do you need a trailer brake controller for HD towing?

Unfortunately, GM chose not to make trailer brake controllers standard with the HD towing option. For those of you who have a trailer with electronic brakes, this means you’ll need to install one yourself. Luckily, aftermarket trailer brake controllers are relatively inexpensive and definitely worth it for peace of mind when towing heavy loads.

How much does it cost to install a trailer brake controller?

GM recommends going with an aftermarket controller versus the one that was available from the factory due to the ease of install, and this is good since the factory part will run you around $500. Once you have chosen a trailer brake controller that you like, you’ll need to obtain the wiring schematic for it.

Where is the trailer brake controller harness located?

This will allow you to make the proper connections to the harness located under the dash. Looking under the driver side dash on the left side, you’ll see a wiring harness taped up out of the way. This is the trailer brake harness that you’ll need to pull down. Figure 1. Trailer brake controller harness.

Does our truck need a trailer brake controller?

Many new cars and trucks come with towing packages, but most do not come with a Trailer Brake Control. The Trailer Brake Control is a module that controls the electric brakes found on many trailers. You will need to install a brake control if you want those brakes to help you stop your vehicle and the trailer you are towing.

Do I need a brake controller installed?

You will need to install a brake control if you want those brakes to help you stop your vehicle and the trailer you are towing. If your vehicle has a Towing Package, installing the Brake Control is a pretty simple affair, you just have to buy an additional wiring harness that plugs directly into the plug your car came with.

How can I test/verify my brake controller?

How to Check a Brake Controller Without a Trailer. Step 1. Press down on the brake pedal while watching the brake controller. The display on the controller should light up and hold a relatively steady Step 2. Step 3.

Is brake controller necessary for electric trailer brakes?

If you have a trailer with electric or electric-over-hydraulic brakes, you usually need a brake controller. Most states have laws on the books about brake controller requirements (typically any trailer 3,000 lbs or more requires one, although laws vary by state).