A brake controller can change your life. If you’re towing a very heavy load, it may even save your life. The ability to control your trailer’s brakes can help a great deal on the road. Having this device ready to go in case of an emergency is essential, especially if you’re towing your car on a trailer.
What is the average cost to install brake controller? On average, you can expect to pay between $60.00 and $340 for the controller itself and up to $300 for labor on the most complicated installations.
However, the cost to install a brake controller varies depending on the type of controller you choose and the wiring that is already present in your vehicle.
Below, we’ll look at the different types and styles of trailer brake controllers, as well as what you might expect to pay on each different type.
Table of Contents
What is the Average Cost to Install a Brake Controller?
Below, we’ll take a look at the cost for different brake controllers, accounting for the available styles and types.
Afterward, we’ll explore some of the additional fees that may stack up when you install a brake controller.
Brake Controller Cost Examples (Parts Only)
| Type of Controller | Proportional | Time-Delayed |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional | $85.00 | $60.00 |
| Wireless | $240.00 | — |
| Trailer-Mounted | $340.00 | — |
| Dashboard-Mounted | $200.00 | $180.00 |
As you can see, how much it costs to install a brake controller depends on which type of brake controller you want to install. When it comes to labor, costs will vary.
On average, you can expect to pay $300 for parts, labor, and complete installation. Again, this can vary greatly depending on the controller itself.
Here is a cost estimation for a trailer:
| Installation Steps | Actions | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle-Installed brake | ADR compliant electric brake controller | $225 |
| Vehicle-Installed brake | + In car installation by auto electrician | $485 |
| Total Cost for Vehicle-Installed brake | $710 | |
| Elecbrakes | Elecbrakes electric brake controller w/ leader | $699 |
| Elecbrakes | + Installation on trailer by auto electrician | $100 |
| Total Cost for Elecbrakes | $799 |
Here are some additional fees that may come with each type of controller.
1.Traditional brake controllers
Traditional brake controllers may require additional wiring. If your car doesn’t have the wiring available, entire parts of your car may need to be rewired.
These controllers install under your dash. They are more difficult to install, but that’s influenced by what type of wiring your vehicle already has.
Traditional dashboard brake controllers can be either proportional or time-delayed.
This installation is more complicated and may require a lot of extra parts in addition to the controller itself.
2. Wireless brake controllers
Wireless brake controllers don’t require professional installation. You can plug them in yourself as long as you have the required plug.
These brake controllers are easier to install overall, though they may be a bit less reliable. You only have to plug in the receiver and you can control your brake settings via your smartphone (over a Bluetooth connection).
They are simple and convenient, but they are also fairly new. Wireless brake controllers can only be proportional.
This installation is by far the least expensive and least complicated.
Read also: Curt Wireless Brake Controller: 9 Facts You Should Know (Explained)
3. Trailer-Mounted brake controllers
Trailer-mounted brake controllers may require some installation steps, but for the most part, they are easy to install.
A trailer-mounted controller is attached to the trailer instead of installed inside your car.
They can be hardwired into your trailer’s wiring system, or they can be wireless and control with a remote (sort of like a keyfob). Trailer-mounted brake controllers are usually proportional.
4. Dashboard-Mounted brake controllers
Dashboard-mounted brake controllers may also take additional wiring.
These brake controllers install in much the same way as traditional under-dash controllers. The only difference is that you have to install a dash-mounted knob to control your brakes.
This may require additional adaptors, harnesses, and wiring, though some knobs can adhere to the dash rather than fully installed. Dashboard-mounted controller knobs can be proportional or time-delayed.
Considering the labor cost (which can range from $100 to $300 depending on the type of controller), part expenses, and additional parts that may be needed, a Dashboard-mounted brake controller is the most expensive type of controller.
Trailer-mounted controllers are next, followed by traditional brake controllers. Wireless brake controllers are the least expensive to install, even if the controller itself is more expensive.
If you aren’t sure what type of controller you need, you can expect to pay the average of these types.
I really like this Tekonsha P3 Electronic Brake Controller. It’s not terribly expensive but gets amazing reviews. Just follow the link to Amazon where you can see current pricing.
Is it Difficult to Install a Brake Controller Yourself?
Installing your brake controller yourself can be easy if you know what you’re doing.
However, because you’re going to be changing your car or RV’s wiring, there is always the chance that you could cause an electrical short and need professional repair.
Only install your brake controller yourself if you know what you’re doing.
If you have some idea of how your vehicle’s wiring works and you’re confident that you can match wires and install a new harness, it should be fairly easy to install your brake controller.
The EASIEST Way to Install A Brake Controller >> Check out the video below:
Keep in mind that some wireless and trailer-mounted controllers are much easier to install yourself, but may cost more upfront.
If you aren’t okay with installing your brake controller, you still don’t have to pay dealership prices for labor and installation.
Check around for service shops, trailer stores, and family mechanics to find the best installation prices for your vehicle and RV.
Choosing the Right Brake Controller
A brake controller allows vehicles that are towing a trailer to activate the trailer brakes independently of their vehicle brakes.
This can be extremely helpful for emergencies, including times where you’ll need to stop very quickly to avoid causing an accident or hitting a large animal.
You can also use it to correct certain trailer issues such as whipping.
Brake controllers work best on electric brake systems, so older towing vehicles won’t be able to use them.
These devices plug into your car’s electric brake system and send a signal to the trailer brakes when you press the vehicle’s brakes.
Trailer brake controllers are an essential piece of safety equipment, and as the name implies, they control a trailer’s electric brakes. Below you´ll find the 3 of the best Trailer Brake Controller:
|
Best Budget
|
Best Overall
|
Easiest Installation
|
|
The Reese Towpower covers the basics at a low price. It can control up to four axles and features adjustable levels of brake boost. There’s a small LED readout screen that shows voltage, a diagnostic output for troubleshooting, and a boost feature for emergency braking. |
The Tekonsha P3 is the closest thing on the aftermarket to a factory trailer brake controller in appearance. A large LED readout screen shows battery, brake, and output voltages and the current of the system. It can also flash a warning if there’s a failure in the braking system. |
In terms of functionality, the Tekonsha Prius IQ can control up to three axles, has a boost setting and an LED readout. Among traditional aftermarket trailer brake controllers, the it’s also probably the easiest to install. |
The Reese Towpower covers the basics at a low price. It can control up to four axles and features adjustable levels of brake boost. There’s a small LED readout screen that shows voltage, a diagnostic output for troubleshooting, and a boost feature for emergency braking.
The Tekonsha P3 is the closest thing on the aftermarket to a factory trailer brake controller in appearance. A large LED readout screen shows battery, brake, and output voltages and the current of the system. It can also flash a warning if there’s a failure in the braking system.
In terms of functionality, the Tekonsha Prius IQ can control up to three axles, has a boost setting and an LED readout. Among traditional aftermarket trailer brake controllers, the it’s also probably the easiest to install.
Read also: Tekonsha Wireless Brake Controller: 11 Facts You Should Know (Explained)
Types Of Electric Brake Controllers
There are two types of electric brake controllers: time-delay controllers and proportional controllers.
1. Proportional controllers
Proportional controllers are more difficult to install, as they have to be mounted very precisely and be tuned correctly.
These controllers activate your trailer brakes in response to how your vehicle is braking. If you press the brake pedal to the floor very quickly (like an emergency stop), the trailer brakes are immediately going to activate.
2. Time-delayed controllers
Time-delayed controllers are simpler to install. They aren’t as efficient, but they are consistent – and that’s what matters in an emergency.
Essentially, you can adjust the delay between when you brake inside the vehicle and when the trailer brakes apply.
You can have multiple settings for different conditions if you wish, and you can switch between them on the device itself (which installs on or under your dashboard).
With either of these controller types, you’ll likely have to purchase an additional plug & play harness that connects to your existing wiring system. Thankfully, most vehicles that are capable of towing already have most of the wiring you’ll need.
Can You Pull A Trailer With Electric Brakes Without A Controller?
Can you pull a trailer with electric brakes without a controller? Yes, It is possible, but not only could it be dangerous but pulling a trailer of 1,500lbs, or over without adequate, integrated braking systems are illegal.
Your brake controller manages the electric current that runs from your car battery to the trailer brakes. The trailer takes the current from the car battery and controls this flow to power the magnets on the trailer wheel hubs.
Without the synchronized controller, the trailer-load weight may push the towing vehicle ahead of it into an intersection or jackknife.
You will be criminally liable for any injury or damage sustained by your negligence, so it’s best not to take a chance at towing without a brake controller.
Read also: Can I Tow A Trailer With Electric Brakes Without A Brake Controller?
How Long Do Trailer Brakes Last?
How long do trailer brakes last? On average you can expect between 6 to 24 months. However, depending on the size of your average load or miles clocked, you should look to replace them every six months.
Lighter use may give your trailer brakes a year lifespan, so you should monitor your usage and conduct frequent checks on your trailer brakes.
A good rule of thumb is to check your trailer brakes for wear each time before you use them
How Much Does It Cost To Fit A Redarc Brake Controller?
How much does it cost to fit a Redarc brake controller? Elecbrakes estimates the costs of installation at around $700. Some people claim that it is possible to install the Redarc oneself, but it is not advised.
Proper, professional installation of a brake controller could set you back anything from $500.
The proper functioning of the unit is crucial for your safety and the safety of other drivers. The main unit sensors your vehicle speed, direction, and braking force.
If it is not correctly attached its readings may be faulty, which can be disastrous on the open road.
Do I Need A Brake Controller If I Have A Tow Package?
Do you need a brake controller if you have a tow package? Yes, generally, tow packages will not provide you controller but will provide a hitch platform, transmission and engine cooling, a strong frame to mount the hitch, and a towing wiring harness.
Related reading: How Much Does It Cost to Install a Trailer Hitch? (with 9 examples)
This harness will allow you to connect your brake controller without having to cut or splice electric wires for connection.
Ask your dealer about tow packages. Dealerships such as Ford offer the Max Tow Package provides all of the above and an onboard brake controller.
Related reading: What Is The Camper Package On Ford F250? Facts You Should Know
Related reading: What Is The Camper Package On Ford F350? Facts You Should Know
Related reading: What Is The Camper Package On Ford F450? Facts You Should Know
Will Trailer Brakes Work Without The Battery?
Unless there is some form of battery sending voltage to your trailer’s brake output circuit wiring, your trailer’s brakes will not engage.
So if your trailer isn’t plugged into your tow vehicle, the tow brakes won’t operate unless the breakaway systems pin has been pulled.
Related reading: This Is Why Your RV Battery Is Overheating? (Read This First)
The electric current from the brake controller energizes a magnet that attaches itself to the spinning brake drum.
This causes the actuating arm to pivot and spreads the brake shoes to contact the brake drum and apply the brakes.
How Do Wireless Brake Controllers Work?
Brake controllers are an electronic device that powers electric trailer brakes. The driver activates and regulates trailer brake activity from the cab of the vehicle.
The mounted brake controller has an interface to view braking information and buttons to control output and a manual override switch. The two main types of brake controllers are:
Time delay operation
This type of controller operates on a simple system. When the driver presses the brake pedal, the time-based controller engages the brakes, increasing power over a fixed time, which is called gain.
The driver can adjust the gain setting to suit his specific trailer, but this system is not as precise as the proportional system.
Proportional operation
Inertia based controllers use an electrical circuit called an accelerometer to sense momentum changes. When a driver presses the brakes, the controller applies power to the trailer brakes according to the vehicle’s momentum.
This system provides a smooth and efficient form of braking, especially on hills. The controller lessens power on the uphill and increases pressure on downhill momentum.
How Much Does It Cost To Fit An Anderson Plug?
How much does it cost to fit an Anderson plug? To fit an Anderson plug, you would need to factor in heavy-duty wires’ price, so you are looking at 250 dollars on the lower end.
Your Anderson plug will cost you an average of 15 dollars.
The hourly rate for an auto electrician can cost you from $100 up for an hourly rate.
An Anderson plug is a specialized socket that attaches to a charge rage circuit and allows charge to flow from your car battery to your caravan/camper/5th wheeler battery.
Anderson plugs are handy to connect a portable fridge or to connect a freestanding solar panel remotely. They minimize voltage drop and create a safe vehicle to trailer connection.
Can You Test An Electric Brake Controller Without Being Connected To Trailer?
You may test your brake controller unit’s functioning without being connected to an external power source, by following these simple steps (you will need a multimeter to conduct the test.)
- Turn your ignition to on and press on your brake and monitoring the brake controller light at the same time. The display should light up and hold a steady reading and should not fluctuate by 1/10 of a volt up or down.
- Check the controller fuse if your display remains off. Replace the fuse if it is burned out and repeat the test. If the fuse burns out again, the problem is in the circuit and should be fixed before you continue with your testing.
- With someone keeping the brakes applied in the vehicle, find the blue wire connected to your trailer connector. This blue wire is the brake control wire. Use a multimeter to measure voltage, and this voltage should vary as your assistant in the vehicle moves the adjustment controls on the brake controller. If there is no voltage or the voltage does not vary, the problem is in the blue brake control wire.
- Check the blue wire connection at the back of your brake controller in the cab; if there is no voltage, your controller will be the problem.
Best Trailer Brake Controller
I’m sure there are lots of good trailer brake controller and I haven’t done a head-to-head test or anything, but the one I ended up buying is this Tekonsha P3 Electronic Brake Control and I’m happy with it.
I installed it myself and found it very easy. It not only fits all of those criteria, it’s half the cost of what comparable trailer brake controller sell for at Camping World (the local RV place here in Meridian, Idaho).
👉 Purchase: If you are interested in this Tekonsha P3 Electronic Brake Control then just follow the link to Amazon where you can see current pricing.
Trailer brake controllers are an essential piece of safety equipment, and as the name implies, they control a trailer’s electric brakes. Below you´ll find the 3 of the best Trailer Brake Controller:
|
Best Budget
|
Best Overall
|
Easiest Installation
|
|
The Reese Towpower covers the basics at a low price. It can control up to four axles and features adjustable levels of brake boost. There’s a small LED readout screen that shows voltage, a diagnostic output for troubleshooting, and a boost feature for emergency braking. |
The Tekonsha P3 is the closest thing on the aftermarket to a factory trailer brake controller in appearance. A large LED readout screen shows battery, brake, and output voltages and the current of the system. It can also flash a warning if there’s a failure in the braking system. |
In terms of functionality, the Tekonsha Prius IQ can control up to three axles, has a boost setting and an LED readout. Among traditional aftermarket trailer brake controllers, the it’s also probably the easiest to install. |
The Reese Towpower covers the basics at a low price. It can control up to four axles and features adjustable levels of brake boost. There’s a small LED readout screen that shows voltage, a diagnostic output for troubleshooting, and a boost feature for emergency braking.
The Tekonsha P3 is the closest thing on the aftermarket to a factory trailer brake controller in appearance. A large LED readout screen shows battery, brake, and output voltages and the current of the system. It can also flash a warning if there’s a failure in the braking system.
In terms of functionality, the Tekonsha Prius IQ can control up to three axles, has a boost setting and an LED readout. Among traditional aftermarket trailer brake controllers, the it’s also probably the easiest to install.
Conclusion
The average cost to install a brake controller depends on a variety of factors, since there are so many brake controller options to choose from.
Choose the one that works best for your lifestyle and will help you control your brakes best.
If you don’t want to install the brake controller yourself, remember that you can shop around to find the best labor and installation costs in your area.
Recommended Reading
Does your Travel Trailer need a Sway Bar? A Simple Guide
What Is The Camper Package On Ford F250? Facts You Should Know
How to Compare Travel Trailers: A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide
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