Can the Primus IQ Brake Controller be Installed So that It Turns On and Off with the Ignition

Question:

I was wondering if I can wire the brake controller to the ignition so its only on when the car is turned on? If so do I still use the 20 amp auto reset circuit breaker

asked by: Ash

Expert Reply:

Brake controllers are going to need a constant power feed to maintain the settings. Otherwise it would reset every time you turn the vehicle off and you would have to go through the set up process every time.

Brake controllers like the Primus IQ # TK90160 will shut off after about 15 minutes of inactivity and go into a power saver, sort of sleep mode. In this mode they draw very little power (around 5 milliamps) and at that draw it would take 6 months to a year of the vehicle just sitting to drain a battery.

Also, if the brake controller had to turn off and on frequently it can shorten its life span.

expert reply by: Michael H