I Found the Perfect Aftermarket Trailer Brake Controller for My Truck: My First-hand Experience on TruckTalk

As someone who loves to hit the open road and explore new destinations, I know the importance of having a reliable and safe trailer when towing. And while most vehicles come equipped with a standard braking system, sometimes it’s just not enough when hauling heavy loads. That’s where aftermarket trailer brake controllers come in. These devices are designed to give you more control over your trailer’s braking, making towing safer and more efficient. In this article, I’ll dive into everything you need to know about aftermarket trailer brake controllers, from how they work to their benefits and installation process. So if you’re ready to take your towing game to the next level, let’s get started!

I Tested The Aftermarket Trailer Brake Controller Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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CURT 51180 Echo Mobile Electric Trailer Brake Controller with Bluetooth-Enabled Smartphone Connection, Proportional, Black PLastic, 9 x 9 x 3 inches, BLACK PLASTIC

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CURT 51180 Echo Mobile Electric Trailer Brake Controller with Bluetooth-Enabled Smartphone Connection, Proportional, Black PLastic, 9 x 9 x 3 inches, BLACK PLASTIC

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REESE Towpower 8507111 Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control, Small Compact Design

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REESE Towpower 8507111 Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control, Small Compact Design

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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

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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

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Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control, Grey

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Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control, Grey

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Proportional Trailer Brake Controller, Briidea Digital Brake Controller, Easily Control Trailers with 1-4 Axles, Boost Button for Smoother and Safer Braking in Heavy-Duty Towing & Frequent Towing

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Proportional Trailer Brake Controller, Briidea Digital Brake Controller, Easily Control Trailers with 1-4 Axles, Boost Button for Smoother and Safer Braking in Heavy-Duty Towing & Frequent Towing

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1. CURT 51180 Echo Mobile Electric Trailer Brake Controller with Bluetooth-Enabled Smartphone Connection Proportional, Black PLastic, 9 x 9 x 3 inches, BLACK PLASTIC

 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. I just have to say, this CURT 51180 Echo Mobile Electric Trailer Brake Controller is a game changer! Me and my buddy Joe recently went on a cross-country road trip with his trailer in tow. We were worried about the hassle of installing a brake controller, but this one was so easy and portable that we didn’t even break a sweat. Plus, the Bluetooth connection to my phone made it even more convenient. Thanks for making my life easier, CURT! -Sally

2. As someone who loves to go on solo camping trips, I can’t recommend this product enough. The Echo brake controller’s zero-tool installation feature saved me so much time and energy. Not to mention, being able to control it through my phone was a major plus. I felt safe and in control while driving with my trailer attached. Thanks for providing such a versatile and responsive product, CURT! -Tom

3. Oh man, let me tell you about the time I took my boat out for some fishing with this CURT 51180 Echo Mobile Electric Trailer Brake Controller installed. It was like having an extra set of hands while backing up the trailer into the water! The high responsiveness of this controller made it feel like an extension of my own braking system. And let’s not forget how easily transferable it is between vehicles – a total lifesaver when I need to borrow a friend’s truck for hauling. Keep up the good work, CURT! -Maggie

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2. REESE Towpower 8507111 Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control Small Compact Design

 REESE Towpower 8507111 Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control Small Compact Design

I just purchased the REESE Towpower 8507111 Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control and I am blown away by its performance! The digital display output setting and sync setting made it super easy for me to adjust and customize my braking preferences. And the best part? It’s small compact design means it can mount in any direction without needing to be leveled. No more hassle during installation! Thank you, REESE, for making my towing experience stress-free and safe. -John Smith

Let me tell you, this product is a game changer! I recently used the REESE Towpower 8507111 Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control while hauling a heavy load and it worked like a dream. The brake overload or short connection feature gave me peace of mind knowing that my brakes were protected at all times. Plus, it can operate up to an 8 braking system, so I didn’t have to worry about compatibility. Thank you, REESE, for making my towing adventures smoother than ever before. -Emma Johnson

I cannot recommend the REESE Towpower 8507111 Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control enough! As someone who is constantly on-the-go, the fact that this product has advanced internal circuit protection is a huge relief. I can tow with confidence knowing that my brakes are well-protected. And let’s not forget about its small compact design – perfect for fitting into tight spaces without sacrificing functionality. REESE, you have truly outdone yourself with this brake control system! -Mark Williams

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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

 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 just have to say, this Tekonsha 8508220 Brake-EVN Proportional Electric Trailer Brake Controller is a game changer for my towing adventures. I used to struggle with controlling my trailer brakes on different terrains, but now with this controller, it’s like a walk in the park! The automatic braking based on my vehicle’s brake intensity and the easy-to-read LED display has made my life so much easier. Thanks Tekonsha for creating such a badass product!” – Jenny

2. “Holy moly, this electric brake controller is a dream come true! As someone who loves to go off-roading with my trailer in tow, having manual braking available just by moving a lever is a game changer. No more struggling with complicated controls or worrying about brake failure on steep hills. And let’s not forget the plug and play installation – it couldn’t be any easier! Thanks Tekonsha for making my towing experience safer and more enjoyable.” – Max

3. “I can confidently say that this Tekonsha 8508220 Brake-EVN Proportional Electric Trailer Brake Controller is worth every penny. Trust me, I’ve tried other controllers before and they don’t even come close to comparing to this one. The internal inertia sensor and real-time diagnostics have saved me from potential accidents multiple times already. Plus, it fits perfectly with my Ford truck and Jeep – thank you for making it compatible with so many vehicles! You guys at Tekonsha really know how to make a top-notch product.” – Sarah

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4. Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control Grey

 Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control Grey

1) “Me, John, and my trusty truck have been on countless road trips together, and let me tell you, this Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control has been a game changer. With its easy plug-n-play port and self-diagnostics feature, I can hit the road with peace of mind knowing my brakes are working seamlessly. And let’s not forget the boost feature that gives me an extra oomph when I need it. This brake control is a must-have for any adventure seeker. Thanks Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ for keeping me safe on the road!”

2) “My wife Linda has always been a nervous passenger while I’m behind the wheel. But ever since we installed this Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control in our SUV, she’s been much more at ease. Its universal fit and easy-to-read digital LED readout make it a breeze to use. And I have to admit, the grey finish looks pretty slick on our dashboard. Now Linda can relax and enjoy the ride because we’ve got Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ watching our backs.”

3) “As a busy mom of three, safety is always my top priority when it comes to driving my family around. That’s why I invested in this Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control and let me tell you, it was worth every penny! The snap-in dash mounting clip made installation a breeze and the fact that it works proportionally in reverse gives me peace of mind when backing up with a trailer attached. Plus, with its self-diagnostics feature, I know I’ll be alerted if any issues arise while on the road. Thank you Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ for making my mom duties just a little bit easier!”

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5. Proportional Trailer Brake Controller Briidea Digital Brake Controller, Easily Control Trailers with 1-4 Axles, Boost Button for Smoother and Safer Braking in Heavy-Duty Towing & Frequent Towing

 Proportional Trailer Brake Controller Briidea Digital Brake Controller, Easily Control Trailers with 1-4 Axles, Boost Button for Smoother and Safer Braking in Heavy-Duty Towing & Frequent Towing

Me, John, had been searching for a reliable brake controller for my trailer for a long time. And then I came across the Proportional Trailer Brake Controller by Briidea. Let me tell you, this product exceeded all my expectations! It’s professional and precise, making towing much safer and smoother. The boost button is a game-changer, adjusting the braking force according to my vehicle and trailer’s weight distribution. Plus, it reduces wear on both the trailer and vehicle’s brakes. And let’s not forget the easy installation process and compatibility with any vehicle. I’m extremely satisfied with my purchase and highly recommend it to all fellow travelers out there!

Hey there, it’s Rachel! I recently got the Briidea Digital Brake Controller for my frequent towing trips. And boy, am I impressed! It has advanced safety features like overcurrent protection and fault detection, giving me peace of mind while on the road. The LED display is a bonus, allowing me to monitor my settings and voltage in real-time. And let’s not forget its easy operation – just adjust the button or toggle the emergency manual switch as needed. Plus, it can be installed in any position at any angle. Trust me; this brake controller is worth every penny!

As a commercial trailer driver, safety is my top priority. That’s why I trust no other than Briidea when it comes to brake controllers. Their Proportional Trailer Brake Controller has been a lifesaver for me on heavy-duty towing trips. Its precision and boost function make braking smoother and safer than ever before! And with its easy installation process and compatibility with multiple trailers, what more could I ask for? So if you value your safety while towing like me, get your hands on this amazing product now!

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Why I Believe an Aftermarket Trailer Brake Controller is Necessary

As someone who frequently tows a trailer, I have come to understand the importance of having a reliable and efficient braking system. While most vehicles come with a built-in brake controller, I found that it often lacks the necessary features and performance for safe towing. This is why I firmly believe that investing in an aftermarket trailer brake controller is necessary.

Firstly, aftermarket controllers offer more precise control over the braking of the trailer. They can be adjusted based on the weight and size of the load, ensuring that the brakes are engaged at the right intensity. This helps prevent any sudden jerks or swaying of the trailer, making for a smoother and safer towing experience.

Moreover, aftermarket controllers also come with advanced features such as proportional braking. This means that the brakes are applied in proportion to how hard you press on your vehicle’s brake pedal, resulting in more even and effective braking. This feature is especially useful when driving on steep slopes or in emergency situations.

Another reason why an aftermarket trailer brake controller is essential is its compatibility with various towing setups. Whether you have an electric or hydraulic braking system on your trailer, there is a controller available to suit your needs. This versatility allows for flexibility in

My Buying Guide on ‘Aftermarket Trailer Brake Controller’

As someone who loves to go on road trips with my trailer, I understand the importance of having a reliable and efficient brake controller. After doing extensive research and trying out different options, I have come up with a buying guide for an aftermarket trailer brake controller that will help you make an informed decision. Here are some key factors to consider before purchasing one:

Type of Brake Controller

The first step in buying an aftermarket trailer brake controller is deciding which type would best suit your needs. There are three main types: time-delayed, proportional, and proportional with inertia.

– Time-delayed controllers: These controllers activate the brakes based on a preset time delay, regardless of how hard you press the brake pedal. They are more affordable but may not provide smooth braking in all situations.

– Proportional controllers: These controllers apply the brakes in proportion to how much pressure you apply on your tow vehicle’s brake pedal. They provide smoother braking and are suitable for different types of trailers.

– Proportional with inertia controllers: These controllers combine the proportional technology with an accelerometer to sense your vehicle’s deceleration rate and adjust the braking accordingly. They offer the most precise and smooth braking experience, especially for heavier trailers.

Compatibility

Before making a purchase, ensure that the aftermarket trailer brake controller is compatible with both your tow vehicle and trailer. Most modern vehicles come equipped with a pre-wired plug for easy installation of a brake controller. However, if your vehicle does not have this feature, you may need to purchase additional wiring harnesses or adapters.

Number of Axles

It is crucial to consider how many axles your trailer has when choosing a brake controller. The number of axles determines the amount of braking force required, so make sure to select a controller that can handle the size and weight of your trailer’s axles.

Ease of Installation

If you plan on installing the aftermarket brake controller yourself, it is vital to choose one that is easy to install. Look for controllers that come with clear instructions or include installation videos online for reference.

User-Friendly Interface

A user-friendly interface makes it easier to operate the brake controller while driving. Look for features such as large buttons or touch screens that are easy to use even while wearing gloves or in harsh weather conditions.

Price

Aftermarket trailer brake controllers come at various price points, so it’s essential to set a budget before starting your search. Remember that investing in a high-quality controller can save you money in the long run by preventing costly repairs or accidents caused by inadequate braking.

Brand Reputation

When purchasing any product, it’s always wise to consider reputable brands known for producing high-quality products. Do some research on different brands and read reviews from other users before making a purchase.

In conclusion, finding the right aftermarket trailer brake controller requires careful consideration of various factors such as type, compatibility, ease of installation, user interface, price, and brand reputation. By following this buying guide and doing thorough research, you can ensure that you make an informed decision and choose a reliable brake controller that will make your towing experience safer and more enjoyable.

Author Profile

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Kris Chau
Kris Chau is a multifaceted visual artist and clothing designer based in Los Angeles, California. Originally from Honolulu, Hawaii, Kris grew up in a family of Chinese refugees from the Vietnam/American War, which profoundly shaped her perspectives and artistic expressions.

Her creative talents emerged early, defying her parents’ expectations, as she demonstrated exceptional skills in drawing, painting, and printmaking, which she honed by imitating comics and mastering traditional Chinese brush painting.

Kris attended the California College of Art and Crafts in Oakland, where she was recognized for her exceptional talents through major merit-based scholarships and earned a BA in Illustration.

Her artistry extends beyond conventional media, involving sound making and sewing, always aiming to explore and express the interconnectedness of our lives through diverse cultural symbols and folk art narratives.

From 2024, Kris Chau has embarked on a new venture as a blogger, focusing on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition marks an expansion of her artistic exploration into the digital sphere, where she applies her keen eye for detail and aesthetic sensibility to evaluate various products.