Trailer Brake Controller

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If your vehicle is equipped with a trailer braking system, the braking components on the trailer axles rely on a trailer brake controller inside the vehicle. The trailer brake controller sends electrical signals to your trailer brakes to activate them when you press down on the brake pedal, making the trailer safer and easier to stop. This electronic device ensures that both the towing vehicle and the trailer come to a safe, slow, and efficient stop, and is beneficial when hauling large loads. Towing without a trailer brake controller increases the chances that your trailer may try to push the tow vehicle forward during stops or skid to the side during hard braking. There are two trailer brake controller varieties: a timed brake controller that applies a set amount of brake pressure, and a proportional controller that senses deceleration and applies pressure to your trailer brakes in the same proportion as your vehicle's brakes. Load size and terrain may determine the best controller for your application, so be sure to consult your owners manual or research your vehicle's towing capabilities and specifications to understand your vehicle's towing capacity before beginning your project. Trailer brake controllers are often easy to install, but you may need to understand https://www.oreillyauto.com/how-to-hub/crimp-wire-connectors">how to crimp wire connectors>/a> and have other basic electric system repair skills. You may also need to install a trailer hitch if you have not towed previously, and you can learn more about this in our How-To Hub. Ensure smooth, proportional braking and prevent your trailer from collisions, jackknifing, and skidding with the right trailer brake controllers, towing accessories, and more from O'Reilly Auto Parts.