Installing an Aftermarket Trailer Brake Controller on a 2011 GMC Sierra with a Factory Brake Control  

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Adding an aftermarket brake controller, like the Tekonsha P3, # 90195, to a 2011 GMC Sierra is fairly simple, even if the truck has a factory integrated brake controller. The Tekonsha P3, # 90195 is compatible with both electric and electric over hydraulic brake systems. First, you will need to locate a bundle of wires under the dash to connect the brake controller. This bundle is on the left side of the instrument panel, above the brake pedal.

The wires are held together by a white tag and contains a red/black wire, a white wire, a light blue/white wire, a dark blue wire, and there could be an orange wire. You will need to make the following connections:

White on truck = white on controller
Red/black on truck = black on controller
Light blue/white on truck = red on controller

For the dark blue wire, you will need about 20 feet or so of wire # 12-1-1 (to go from the controller to the 7-Way connector at the back of the truck). Connect one end of this wire to the blue wire on the brake controller. You will then need to route the wire under the truck, avoiding areas that may pinch or burn the wire, to the 7-Way. You will need to get access to the wires behind the connector. Cut the blue wire about 6 inches back from the connector and attach the wire you routed to the end that goes to the connector.

There may be some connections that you will need to make under the hood to make the brake controller and the 7-Way 12 volt circuit functional. I have included an FAQ article that explains the above process and the necessary connections.

expert reply by: Michael H

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