Recommended Trailer Brake Controller for 2017 Siesta RV

Question:

I contacted a local Mercedes dealer asking about the need for a brake controller on our new Siesta RV. He said the system was plug-n-play unless the 2015 Logan Stockman 2-horse bumper pull trailer we were hauling had LED lights in which case, he indicated that the system would not work because the LED lights had lower voltage requirements and would not register on the plug-n-play system. He asked whether the LED lights on the trailer could be replaced with regular lights or suggested an after market installation of a brake controller. What would you advise regarding changing the trailer lights or adding a brake controller and what type of controller? Is it difficult or easy to install a brake controller?

asked by: William G

Expert Reply:

For your Siesta RV that uses the 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500, I recommend installing the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller # 90195. This is an excellent proportional controller that will activate your trailer's brakes at the same time and with the same intensity that you apply to them in your RV. It will work well with LED trailer lights because it does not use any taillight circuits for activation.

To install the controller, you will just need a few items, depending on what is already installed on the RV. If there is already a 7-way connector installed at the rear of the Sprinter, you will just need the Roadmaster Stop Light Switch Kit # RM-751475 along with the Wiring Kit for Electric Trailer Brake Controllers # 5506. This kit will include the duplex wire and circuit breakers needed for installation. I have attached an installation video on the 2016 Sprinter 3500 that you can use for reference. The process will be very similar for your 2017 model.

If you do not have a connector at the rear of your Sprinter, you will first need to install a 4-way connector with Vehicle Wiring Harness # C59236. From there you can use the Universal Wiring Kit # ETBC7, which will include everything else needed to install a 7-way connector and the brake controller. I have included an article that details the ETBC7 installation process for you to look through.

If you are comfortable making hardwire connections along the Sprinter, the installation is something that can certainly be done yourself. However, if you are not comfortable doing this, a local auto shop should be able to perform the installation without issue.