Electric Trailer Brake Controller Recommendation for a 2010 Chevy Silverado

Question:

What do I need to have electric brakes towwing with a 2010 Chevy Silverardo 1/2 ton pick-up with tow package. It currently has no brake controller

asked by: Kenneth O

Expert Reply:

The 2010 Chevy Silverado has tow package wiring already routed under the dash, but no port to plug into so you will need to hardwire the brake controller to the factory wiring. The wiring harness on the truck is located below the steering column and to the left of the brake pedal. The bundle of wires will be held together with a white tag that lists the function of each wire.

The brake controller only uses 4 of these wires as indicated below. Any additional wires will not be needed and can be taped up and stowed out of the way.

Brake controller white wire = ground
Brake controller black wire = 12 volt power
Brake controller blue wire = output to trailer brakes
Brake controller red wire = stop light circuit

For a brake controller, I recommend the Tekonsha P2, # 90885, because it is easy to set up and easy to use. It is one of our most popular brake controllers.

If your truck did not come with a factory installed 7-Way trailer connector, you will also need to add Twist-in, 7-Pole, RV-Style Trailer Connector, # PK11916. There also may be some additional connections that need to be made under the hood to make everything functional. I have included a link to an FAQ article that will help with the installation along with a video showing a typical installation of PK11916.