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The 2 Best Brake Controllers For Your Trailer

According to the National Highway Transportation Administration, 50,000 accidents are related to towing every year. Having the best brake controller for your trailer will help reduce this from happening. Here are the two best brake controllers for your trailer.

Time-Delayed Brake Controller

If you don’t spend a significant amount of time towing while on the road, this trailer brake controller will be ideal for you. Time-delayed brake controllers are the most affordable and the easiest to install and use. You set the power of the brakes depending on your towing weight. That amount of pressure is applied when you hit the brakes. You can set the time delay of when this pressure is applied by using the sync switch on the trailer air brake controller.

Shortening or lengthening the delay on these time-delayed brake controllers does have some implications. If you set the sync at a high or low frequency, it can cause the brakes to wear unevenly. To avoid any strain, you need to be careful to set it at its optimal braking performance level.

Proportional Brake Controller

Proportional trailer brake controls ensure a balance for even brake wear. An accelerometer determines the tow’s idleness. A pressure matching the momentum of your vehicle is applied whenever you activate your brakes. The pendulum circuit inside this electric brake controller makes the trailer and the vehicle stop at the same time. This makes it the best brake controller for all types of drivers.

Trailer Brake Control Factors

When choosing the trailer brake system that’s right for you, there are a few factors to keep in mind. You’ll need to consider the tow’s weight and how often you’ll be towing. If your towing is typically light, you may want to opt for time-delayed brakes. If your towing is heavier and frequent, proportional brake controls may be the better option.

You’ll also have to take the ease of installation into account. Time-delayed brakes can be installed at any angle while proportional brakes have a more restrictive angle of installation. Time-delayed brakes are also cheaper than proportional brakes.

Whether you’re buying a new trailer or you have an existing one already, selecting the best brake controller is critical for staying safe on the road. The trailer brake solution you should choose depends on how much time you’ll spend towing. If you need help selecting the best brake controller for you, contact our professionals at Hayes Towing Electronics.

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What Should You Look for In Trailer Brake Controllers?

If you’ve ever wondered how to tow safely, or if you’ve read reviews of brake controllers, then you know just how challenging it can be to find the right products to buy and install for your next towing adventure. Like most people, it’s okay to recognize that there is a lot of confusing information out there today. Among all the clutter, it can quickly become overwhelming and counterproductive when you’re trying to learn how to find the right trailer brake controllers. That’s why we’ve come up with this simple list of things to look out for in trailer brake controllers.

Look Into Modern Technological Solutions

As with most fields, whether in the automotive industry or not, trailer brake controllers have definitely been impacted by changes and developments in modern technology. Whether you’re looking at the latest advanced light systems, or the approach that new trailer brakes take to sway control, there’s no denying the fact that modern trailer brake controllers deliver an exceptional driving and towing experience all around. The fact remains that in the old days, there were only a few simple ways to give yourself the best towing experience possible. Now, thanks to technology, the options for outfitting your trailer are nearly infinite. However, this also brings a problem where you may encounter some fatigue over all the different choices that are available to you. That’s why it’s so important to weigh your options and know the market a bit before you simply rush into buying something. This is where reviews of brake controllers become so convenient for you as a buyer.

Read Reviews of Brake Controllers Before Buying

Reviews of brake controllers will inform you on everything from wiring setup to sway control mechanisms. Sure, you don’t need to become an expert in brake control systems in order to make an informed decision, but anyone who wants to know what they’re getting into would be wise to read some reviews of brake controllers first. While reviews from average consumers can help you to get a more practical take on a system that you may be considering buying, it’s also helpful to read some reviews of brake controllers from experts in the industry.

Expert perspectives can help you to avoid making a rushed buying decision that may leave you with some regrets. Industry experts understand all the different factors that go into making a proper trailer brake controller system. Issues like sway control and how it’s dictated by wind speeds serve as a prime example of such an insider knowledge and skill set. For example, were you aware of the fact that a 35-mph crosswind could put as much as 3,440 pounds of force pushing on the side of a large trailer, according to a study on commercial vehicle towing accidents by Knott Laboratory? While you may not be aware of such facts upfront, reading up on enough reviews of brake controllers can help you to be aware of these kinds of issues that will ultimately impact the quality of your trailer brake controllers.

Find the Right Supplier

Finally, you need to be on the lookout for high-quality suppliers. As with anything else, if you’re buying from a mediocre supplier, you can expect a mediocre supplier. However, when it comes to trailer brake controllers, the supplier matters even more. It’s a specific product that is largely dependent on both your current driving set up and your long term goals. Someone who needs controllers for a small road trip has very different needs from someone who is towing and hauling large payloads every day. The right supplier guides you through this process.

At Hayes Towing Electronics, we’re here to help you upgrade your vehicle and your trailer with modern towing safety and electronic trailer brake controllers that give you a smoother, more reliable ride each and every time you hit the road. Our team is standing by to answer any questions you may have. Hayes Towing Electronics Products are Proudly Made in the U.S.A.

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4 Towing Safety Points To Keep In Mind This Summer

As the weather gets warmer, the call to hit the open road gets stronger and harder to resist. Before you hitch up your trailer and make your getaway, it’s a good idea to brush up on some safety reminders first. Here are four things to keep in mind regarding how to tow safely.

Towing Capacity Limits

Before you head out on the open road, double-check the towing capacity for your vehicle to make sure it can handle the weight. If you exceed the maximum capacity, it can severely damage your electronic brake controllers, drivetrain, and engine. Also, make sure that your trailer hitch can properly handle the loaded weight of your trailer. The hitch should contain a label with the amount of weight it’s able to support. You can also check the recommendations in your owner’s manual.

Proper Trailer Packing

It’s crucial that your cargo is properly positioned inside the trailer. Roughly 60% of the load should be placed in the front half of your trailer. You should also load the trailer so that between 12% to 15% of the loaded trailer’s total weight is resting on the hitch. Be sure that the weight is evenly distributed on both the left and right sides of the loaded trailer. Secure the cargo to prevent it from shifting.

Tire Pressure

Another thing to consider when ensuring you can tow safely is the proper inflation of your tires. Tires that aren’t inflated properly can cause issues with handling and controlling trailer sway. You’ll also cause the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check the pressure label located in the driver’s side door jamb for the proper inflation amounts for the tow vehicle. Also, double-check the speed rating for the tires on both your vehicle and trailer and make sure not to exceed the limits.

Trailer Brake System

If you have a heavier trailer with a trailer brake system, make sure that the emergency breakaway cable is properly connected to your tow vehicle. If for some reason that your trailer should break away from the hitch, this cable will trigger the trailer brake controller and bring it to a complete halt. This can prevent it from slamming into your tow vehicle or causing an accident with other drivers on the road.

It’s important to know how to tow safely so that you can fully enjoy your time while out on the open road. By checking these four things before you leave, you can keep yourself and others safe while heading to your desired destination. You’ll feel at ease and truly enjoy your trip taking in all that summer has to offer.

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5 Towable RV Must-Haves

If you’re thinking about buying a towable RV, you’re in good company. Accordinate to estimates, nearly 30 million people are crazy about RVing in general. And owning a towable RV can be less expensive than purchasing a decked-out motorhome. Nevertheless, you still need to think about purchasing add-ons like RV locks and electric brake controllers for trailers to protect your family and your investment.

What accessories are must-haves for any RV enthusiast with a towable? Start with the following suggestions that will deliver peace of mind and, in the case of electric brake controllers for trailers, a smoother ride!

RV Locks

Limiting access to your towable is critical, whether you’re en route to or at your favorite campsite. Installing RV locks will help you ensure that only individuals with a key can get into your wheeled home-away-from-home. If you bought your towable preowned, you should always change the locks, anyway. Even if the person who sold it to you claimed not to keep a key, opt on the side of caution and update the locks.

Electric Brake Controllers

Adding electric brake controllers for trailers to your cab will help with controlling trailer sway and avoiding accidents. The best brake controllers offer seamless installation and consistent performance. Not sure which electronic brake controllers for trailers to consider? Read through brake controller reviews online. Hear what others have said about their experiences and make your ultimate decision after considering several electric brake controllers for trailers with towables.

Camper Bike Racks

Are you planning to bring bicycles on most of your RV adventures? Invest in bike racks specifically meant to attach to towables. Otherwise, you might end up compromising towing safety. Besides, who wants a bike bouncing around inside the towable or poorly secured on the outside of the trailer? Bike racks may cost several hundred dollars, but they pay off by offering you tremendous flexibility to confidently take your bikes wherever you go.

Spare Tire Carrier

Why waste space on your hitch carrying a spare tire for your fifth wheel towable motorhome? Carriers don’t cost much, and they allow you to use your hitch in other ways, such as adding more accessories. Hopefully, you’ll never need to use your spare tire. But if you do, you’ll be able to quickly find it on the carrier.

Security System

You’ve chosen the right electric brake controllers for trailers like yours. You’ve even read manuals on how to tow safely. As a final way to ward against problems, think about a security system for your towable. Security systems don’t have to be complicated or pricey to work. Simple ones activated by sound or light can be exactly what you need to keep would-be prowlers at bay. Save yourself the anxiety and expense of a break-in by upping the security level with a few gadgets. You may even find ones you can control by your phone, turning your towable into a “smarter” RV.

Ready to hit the road for RV journeys you’ll remember forever? Take a few precautionary measures first. Then, get behind the wheel and let the road guide you to amazing fun.

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Ensure Your Trip Goes Off With a Hitch

Here’s the scenario, the weather is perfect, you prepare your camping gear and load everything you need in your trailer. You can’t wait to get out on the open road. You have the entire trip planned to the smallest detail. You set off for a fantastic camping adventure with the family. As you drive, your trailer begins to sway. It turns out you may have forgotten the most important detail of all!

Don’t Sway from the Basics

An unstable trailer can bring your plans to a standstill. Sway control and the best brake controller money can buy is necessary for anything hitched to your family car, van or pickup. There are two main categories of RVs, or motorhomes, which are motorized and towable. These recreational vehicles are generally used for camping, as well as temporary living accommodations. Should you own a towable, having the best brake controller is vital. Trailer sway can cause a dangerous situation, not only for you but for others traveling on the road. A likely cause of sway can be an insufficient hitch. Fishtailing also occurs if you are driving too fast. These issues can be alleviated by purchasing the right products, such as the best brake controllers you can afford, to ensure that your camping excursion is successful, safe, and worry-free.

Stop Sway with Quality Products

Because the trailer is so much taller than the vehicle pulling it, a travel trailer carries a much higher profile than a flat-utility trailer. This makes a travel trailer susceptible to crosswinds or larger vehicles passing from behind. Another cause for sway is misalignment or low pressure on your trailer’s tires. Tires out of alignment can cause the front of the trailer to move back and forth. Weight ratio is another circumstance that affects the stability of your trailer. If a trailer is improperly loaded, it can pull on the rear of the vehicle that is towing it. The front of the towing vehicle can then become lifted and unstable. Good weight distribution is also important, although the best trailer brake controllers are adept at fixing trailer sway, even if the weight distribution isn’t perfect.

The Best Brake Controllers Provide Peace of Mind

When sway occurs, it happens in the back portion of the tow vehicle and front portion of the trailer. Wind hitting your trailer will naturally take your car or truck along with it. The best brake controllers counter this with friction. These devices help keep the hinge in place with the use of bars alongside. A hitch also adds a lot of weight and is an important investment. Creating an optimum connection between the vehicle and trailer is imperative to reducing and/or completely eliminating sway. A high-quality electronic sway control system can aid in correcting sway, with or without weight distribution. These devices, in essence, monitor a trailer’s movement and can calculate braking to correct movement. The best trailer brake controllers are easy and quick to install, and can really improve the overall performance of your camper.

A summer camping trip should be carefree and enjoyable. Buying the right products for your towable will eliminate travel stress. You can focus on the rustic atmosphere, breathtaking scenery and memories with loved ones. Your trip shouldn’t be spent worried about the equipment you use. The investment of sturdy, long-lasting products will ensure your trips go off with a sway control hitch!

Hayes Towing Electronics Products are Proudly Made in the U.S.A.

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A Few Simple Tips to Enhance Your Trailer’s Safety On the Roads

When it comes to towing a trailer out on the roads, safety is paramount. In fact, when you put safety first with your trailer, you can avoid a whole range of problems that can lead to unnecessary situations. Here are a few simple tips.

Learn About Trailer Sway

Trailer sway is one of the biggest safety issues facing anyone who is towing a trailer or driving an RV. As you might imagine, trailer sway can be quite dangerous both for your vehicle, and for any other drivers in your vicinity. In fact, trailer sway is perhaps the single largest safety issue for drivers with trailers. It can lead to a number of disastrous events, including sliding off the road or colliding with other vehicles outside of your lane. Doing your part to learn about trailer sway is one of the best things you can do for your own safety, and for the safety of other drivers. Even more important is staying aware of trailer sway when you’re out on the roads. When you’re armed with the proper knowledge, you can take steps to reduce trailer sway and handle it in a way that keeps everyone safe on your next trip. It also helps to know that there are many modern technological solutions that can help to reduce trailer sway and keep your ride as smooth as possible.

Inspect Your Trailer Brake Wiring

Your trailer brake wiring not only allows you to more accurately signal your intentions to other drivers, but it also helps you keep abreast of your own positioning and maneuvers. Unfortunately, there are a lot of people towing trailers with insufficient or simply outdated trailer brake wiring. The good news is that you don’t need to be an expert on trailer brake wiring and electronic brake control in order to keep yourself safe. Trailer sway devices come in 2 basic types: those that reduce sway once it has begun and those that work to prevent sway altogether. It’s never a bad idea to ask a specialist about modern trailer brake wiring solutions to ensure the safety and accuracy of your wiring.

Work With a Trailer Expert

You can’t afford to cut corners with your safety. By working with a company that specializes in the field of trailer brakes, you can rest assured that you’re getting the right solutions from experts in the industry. It’s simply not worth the trouble to try to make a shortcut in order to save a little bit of time or money. Choosing the right company from the start will keep you from having to correct larger problems in the future.

Whether you’re looking to update your trailer brake wiring, install new electronic brake controllers, or invest in an RV sway control system, you need to know that you can trust the company selling you your equipment. At Hayes Towing Electronics, we take pride in offering a wide range of trailer brake controllers and trailer brake wiring solutions. If you’re looking for specific parts, don’t hesitate to reach out and get in touch with a member of our team today.

Hayes Towing Electronics Products are Proudly Made in the U.S.A.

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How Can You Be Sure That Your Trailer is Ready for Your Next Road Trip?

Towing a trailer can be quite a fulfilling and practical way to travel. But you want to be sure that you’re doing things right. Driving with a trailer, while incredibly helpful and productive for certain tasks, also poses a number of risks, especially if you’re not sure what you’re doing, or if you haven’t completed the proper safety preparation to ensure a smooth ride. Here are a few ways you can be confident that your trailer is prepared for your next road trip.

Consider getting a multi axle brake controller

Trailer sway is one of the largest problems that drivers face out on the roads. It doesn’t matter how skilled you are as a driver, factors such as inclement weather, heavy winds, and mechanical variables can easily produce a trailer that sways across the road. As a matter of fact, did you know that a 35-mph crosswind could put as much as 3,440 pounds of force pushing on the side of a large trailer, according to a study on commercial vehicle towing accidents by Knott Laboratory? Unfortunately, all it takes is one bad instance of trailer sway to create potentially disastrous results.

Thankfully there are a number of solutions in the modern trailer brake controller industry that can drastically reduce the severity of trailer sway. One such solution are multi axle brake controllers. These brake controllers offer state of the art technology engineered with precision to ensure that you keep trailer sway to a minimum. Anyone towing a trailer would be wise to look into having a multi axle brake controller installed before heading out on a road trip.

Perform routine check-ups and maintenance

Don’t overlook the importance of routine maintenance. Even if you have the best new technology installed on your trailer, you can’t ignore more fundamental mechanical check-ups, either. It’s always a good idea to have your trailer inspected by an extra pair of eyes before you take it on a long trip. Many problems can be avoided by simply having your equipment maintained by professional mechanics who have the specific expertise to diagnose and address common problems with trailers. Remember, safety first.

Consult with a company who knows towing safety facts and procedures

Of course, it doesn’t really matter whether you have the latest multi axle brake controller or electronic brake controllers installed if you don’t know how to follow basic towing safety rules with your trailer. Unfortunately, it is all too common for drivers to make the mistake of thinking that fancy equipment is a substitute for the proper knowledge out on the roads. This couldn’t be further from the truth. As a matter of fact, this kind of mindset is responsible for untold amounts of accidents and troubles on the highways and interstates of the world.

So, rather than relying on your multi axle brake controller to do all the work for you, you should do your part to educate yourself before taking your trailer on a long road trip. Speaking with the company who manufactured or sold you the trailer brake solution is one of the best ways to ensure that you are using the equipment in the right manner. Getting the right equipment from the right company is a great way to avoid a large number of problems that most drivers experience when towing a trailer. In fact, even experienced drivers may have some difficulty with a trailer if they’re not familiar with the specifics. Speak to a trustworthy, reliable towing parts manufacturer about any special considerations before you take your trailer out on the roads for that next big road trip.

Of course, getting your trailer ready for the road all begins with choosing a towing product that meets the highest quality and safety standards. If you’re not sure who to turn to or how to get started on finding a multi axle brake controller or other parts to fix trailer sway, then don’t hesitate to reach out and get in touch with a member of our team today. At Hayes Towing Electronics, we are proud to offer superior towing products that are sure to keep you safe out on the roads without breaking the budget. Looking for a specific part, or are you just interested in getting some more information on our products? Contact us today. Hayes Towing Electronics Products are Proudly Made in the U.S.A.

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Keep Camping Safe: 5 Critical Tips For Campers

Up to 78.8 million U.S. households camped in 2019–a figure that has increased at 7.2 million in the last five years, according to the most recent North American Camping Report. Whether you are a lifelong camping enthusiast or just discovered your love for camping in recent years, it is important to prioritize safety above all else. Follow these tips for a safe and memorable camping trip.

1. Pack The Essentials

Draft up a realistic itinerary of what you plan to do on your trip, and go from there. If you plan to spend most of the time onsite sitting around the campfire, your packing list may look very different than the packing lists of those planning to embark on hiking trips and outdoor excursions. Generally, it is wise to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, a flashlight, extra batteries, a compass or GPS, a raincoat, windbreaker, or winter jacket, and food and water. Portable radios, satellite phones, or personal locator beacons (PLB) are a must, as well. Smartphone and cellphone batteries may drain quickly, and, in more remote locations, you may not have a signal at all. Before leaving, try on new clothes and test new equipment to make sure everything is in proper working order.

2. Secure The Trailer or RV

If you will be camping with a trailer or RV, knowing your towing safety facts is just as important for a worry-free trip. Review the owner’s manual of your trailer or RV. Find out how the jack latches and locks into place. A lot of models use a latch pin, but this can vary. Once you determine the type of lock or locking mechanism, test the trailer to make certain it is securely in place. Make certain safety chains are present and the proper length.

From there, determine any additional safety features you may need. For large RVs and trailers amounting to over 50% of the towing vehicle weight, a weight distribution system and/or sway control hitch may be necessary. Furthermore, an air brake controller is also a worthwhile investment. An air brake controller sits in the cab of your vehicle and smoothly operates trailers’ brake lights in perfect sync with your braking. Further, many models can operate many brake lights and include flashing emergency lights and automatic braking systems.

3. Safely Set Up Camp

Check park and camping ground websites for any size restrictions on RVs or trailers. Make sure to park a safe distance from dead trees and large, overhanging branches. Keep in mind that there will be additional safety measures if you are camping during the bear season or in parks bears tend to frequent. In that case, the National Park Service (NPS) requires any campfires or cooking to take place a minimum of 200 feet away from where you sleep. Avoid sleeping in the same clothes you wore while cooking, and call ahead or research park websites to see if you need a bear box or bear bag.

4. Know The Basics Of Fire Safety

Just like it is a safety essential to fit trailers with braking systems like air brake controllers, it is also necessary to tend to campfires carefully and responsibly. Flammable materials and items should remain 15 feet away from the fire at all times. Do not use accelerant unless it is specifically approved by the campgrounds, and never use gasoline or other flammable liquids, just lighter fluid. Stay a safe distance away from the fire, and watch kids and pets closely to make sure they’re doing the same, too!

5. Remember Personal Safety Essentials

Stay hydrated. It can be easy to overlook small details during camping trips. Don’t forget to stay hydrated, especially if you are moving around all day or most of the day. The NPS recommends packing at least two liters of water per day per person. Stow plenty of extra water in emergency kits. Finally, don’t forget to pack a first aid kit and keep it readily accessible.

Getting away and returning to nature is good for our health. Spending time in the woods lowers blood pressure, your average resting heart rate, and your cortisol levels. Break out the RV and air brake controller and make it happen!

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What is the Best Electric Brake Controller for Towable RVs?

One of the most common types of recreational vehicles (RVs) are motorhomes, in which its engine is contained. The other is towables, which are towed by a motorized vehicle. The former will have braking systems most commonly used in heavy-use trucks: air brakes on newer models, drum brakes on older models. The braking systems for towables, however, are more complex. In addition to the demands of effectively breaking the momentum of heavy and unwieldy trailers, braking systems on towable RVs must also work with weight distribution systems. Like the electric brake controllers, and electronic sway control devices. For this vital confluence of tasks, there are two common types of brake controller systems: stable state or time-delayed. Of these and others, what is the best type of brake controller? That depends upon a number of factors. Read on for an overview of the two most common types of trailer braking systems, their benefits, and what is the best type of brake controller for your towable RV.

Importance of Electric Brake Controllers for Trailers

Electric brake controllers are one of the most critical safety mechanisms on a towable RV. In many states – and per the preconditions of a number of insurance providers – electronic brake controllers are a mandatory requirement. Manufacturers automatically install electronic trailer brake controllers on models with tandem axles. Installed or required, trailer brakes are inoperable without an electric brake controller installed, and are invaluable for safe and secure towing. With two common types, a number of variations within each of those types, and a range of brands and models, it takes some research to determine what is the best type of brake controller for your purposes.

Differences Among Electric Brake Controllers

Some of the key differences in electronic trailer brakes deal with how they are controlled. While others vary on the number of brakes that are controlled. There are also a number of other functions that will vary from type to type, brand to brand, and model to model.

Proportional Brake Controllers

Proportional brake controllers distribute force evenly among the brakes on the RV and the towing vehicle. Among the benefits of this system is that it produces less wear on both braking systems than other types. Proportional controllers also brake more responsively, more quickly, and more safely than other methods. It is a more premium option for owners who expect to use their RV with regularity.

Stable State Brake Controllers

Stable state or time-delayed brake controllers operate according to a user-set braking capacity that is relative to the weight of a trailer and its cargo. This allows drivers to tune the braking timing and force via sync applications. Sync applications are included with most of these kinds of electric brake controllers. This electronic brake controller applies the predetermined force and distributes it per the sync settings. With these settings you can decide between putting more weight on the vehicle, more on the towable, or if it’s distributed evenly. Stable state or time-delayed electric braking controllers are generally more affordable than proportional brake controllers systems. They are favored by owners who use their towable RVs more occasionally.

What is the Best Type of Brake Controller?

This post has explored the differences between the two most common types of electric brake controllers for towed RVs, but they have a great deal more in common than not. To determine which will work best for you, consider how you use your towable RV, what your budget is, and the many functions offered by the various electric brake controller manufacturers. Do research, read reviews of brake controllers, and reach out to a qualified dealer of American made high quality trailer brake controllers.

Hayes Towing Electronics Products are Proudly Made in the U.S.A. and In-Stock!

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How To Inspect and Troubleshoot Electronic Brake Controllers

If your trailer brake system isn’t working properly, it can wreak all kinds of havoc when you are on the road. A simple 35 mph crosswind can exert around 3,440 pounds of force on your trailer, causing it to sway uncontrollably. If you can’t brake properly, you could cause both you and your trailer extensive damage or create a massive pileup on the highway. Here’s how to inspect and troubleshoot electronic brake controllers to keep yourself safe on the road.

Electronic Brake Controller Inspection Steps

To inspect your trailer brake controls, you will need to gather your trailer brake controller, your vehicle’s owner manual, and a 12 volt test light. Connect your trailer to your towing vehicle to engage and activate the brake controller. Make sure the controller is accessible and easy to see while you are inside your vehicle and keep your owner’s manual handy. Examine the in-cab control to determine if it’s installed correctly or needs an adjustment. Check the digital screen on the front of the controller for any troubleshooting codes and reference them to your owner’s manual.

The last thing you will want to check is your trailer brake wiring system. Check to see the black power wire is firmly connected to the positive terminal and the white power wire is securely connected to the negative terminal. Use the 12 volt test light to the trailer connector wire port to check voltage continuity. If you see less power being sent to the trailer connector than to the controller, then you will want to check for wiring issues between the two units.

Common Trailer Brake System Problems

There are three main problems that can occur with electronic brake controllers. If the display on the device shows that the trailer is not properly connected, then you could have a brake signal wire short or a vehicle plug corrosion issue. Errors can also occur if ground wires are not solidly connected to negative battery terminals or the adapter wiring doesn’t properly match with the OEM connector on your vehicle. You can also have problems if adjustments with brake assemblies are off or the controller’s boost/gain setting is too high for your trailer’s size.

It’s important to regularly inspect electronic brake controllers on a regular basis to make sure they are functioning properly. Keeping them in good condition will help keep you safe on the road by fixing trailer sway and proper brake coordination between the vehicle and trailer. If you need help with troubleshooting or repairs, consult a professional knowledgeable in trailer brake controller solutions to help you.

Hayes Towing Electronics Products are Proudly Made in the U.S.A. and In-Stock!