Installing Aftermarket Prodigy Brake Controller in 2009 Chevrolet Silverado with Factory Controller

Question:

I have a 2009 chevy Silverado with a factory brake controller in the truck and my trailer brake isnt working! It doesnt sense the trailer when it plugged to the truck! When I put a meter on it @ the bumper the voltage is jumping up and down! The brakes have worked in the past! Is the problem in the truck or my camper? Thanks

asked by: Justin

Expert Reply:

If you tested the brake circuit on your Silverado's factory 7-way and found the voltage to jump up and down as you test (without touching the controller) then it is likely that it has failed. Despite the convenience of factory controllers many owner's end up replacing them with superior aftermarket units which typically work a lot better and cost less too. Popular options are the Prodigy P2 # 90885 and P3 # 90195.

You can test the trailer too to confirm its brake circuit is functioning correctly. This is easy to do. Just connect a spare 12V battery (or the vehicle's) to the brake circuit on the 7-way trailer plug. Please refer to the linked photo for which pins to use. If you can hear and feel the brakes engage (you should hear gentle humming from the brakes) then you know the problem is on the vehicle side.

To install a new aftermarket controller like the Prodigy you can refer to the linked article that covers the process for your truck.

expert reply by: Adam R