Towing a trailer safely is about more than power—it’s about control. Whether you’re hauling a camper, boat, livestock, or overlanding trailer, stopping safely is just as important as pulling the load. That’s where an electric brake controller comes in.
An electric brake controller is a small device installed in your tow vehicle. Its job is to send the right amount of force to your trailer’s brakes when you hit the brake pedal in your car. This way, your trailer helps with braking instead of pushing or pulling against your vehicle.
Without a brake controller, your trailer relies entirely on your vehicle’s brakes. This makes stopping harder, less stable, and more dangerous, especially in emergencies.
HOW DOES AN ELECTRIC BRAKE CONTROLLER WORK?
When you press the brake pedal, the brake controller senses it and sends a signal to your trailer’s brakes. The harder you brake, the more power is sent to the trailer. This balances the load and keeps stopping smooth and safe.
Not all trailer brake controllers work the same way. Here are the main types:
- Electronic Controllers: Basic design with a manual dial. They apply the same braking power every time, no matter the speed or conditions. They can be rough and require constant adjustment.
- Time-Delayed Controllers: They apply braking power gradually based on a time delay. Simple but less responsive in emergencies.
- Proportional Controllers: They match the trailer’s braking force to your vehicle’s braking force. This delivers smoother, safer stopping in all conditions.
- Hybrid Controllers: Combine proportional and time-delayed modes, giving drivers more flexibility on and off-road.
WHY DO YOU NEED A BRAKE CONTROLLER?
- Improved safety - A brake controller shortens stopping distances and improves stability. Research shows towing without trailer brakes increases the risk of losing control, especially in emergencies.
- Better stability - Trailer sway can be caused by wind, uneven loads, or rough roads. Advanced controllers, like REDARC’s Tow-Pro range, include sway control technology that applies trailer brakes independently of vehicle when the override is pressed to stop swaying.
- Legal requirement - In most regions, if your trailer has electric brakes—or weighs over 3,000 pounds—you are legally required to use a brake controller. Always check local towing regulations before hitting the road. See North American Towing Regulations.
- More control and confidence - Brake controllers let you adjust braking strength based on trailer weight, terrain, and conditions. Advanced models, like the Tow-Pro Link, even connect to your smartphone for easy setup and adjustment.
WHERE ARE ELECTRIC BRAKE CONTROLLERS USED?
Brake controllers are essential across many towing applications:
- RV & Camping: Heavier trailers need added stability and safe braking on steep descents.
- Overlanding: Towing on off-road terrain demands precise braking, even on loose surfaces.
- Marine: Boat trailers often use electric over-hydraulic brakes that need a compatible controller. Braking stability is crucial, especially on slippery boat ramps.
- Livestock: Smooth braking keeps animals safe and reduces stress during transport.
WHY CHOOSE A REDARC TOW-PRO ELECTRIC BRAKE CONTROLLER?
Not all brake controllers are created equal. Cheaper, older models are often bulky, hard to install, and may not work well with modern vehicles or off-road conditions.
REDARC’s Tow-Pro range solves these problems with advanced design and reliability trusted worldwide.
Key features include:
- Quick, simple installation
- Sleek, factory-style look that blends into your dashboard
- Compact, durable design that fits neatly out of the way
- Compatible with vehicles featuring lower leg airbags
- Proven performance on-road and off-road
Choosing the right Electric Brake Controller for your towing needs is essential for safe towing. If you’re towing a trailer, an electric brake controller isn’t optional—it’s a must-have. It protects your vehicle, your load, and most importantly, your safety.
To learn more, check out our towing range or talk to a REDARC dealer today.
