Does the Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller Part # TK90160 Have a Sleep Mode

Question:

I had a brake control installed on my 1994 gmc 1500. They hook it where the controller is hot all the time even when key is turned off. Should that be wired where it’s only on when the key is on? I don’t drive the truck much and don’t want it to run battery dead.

asked by: Brad

Expert Reply:

The way we recommend to power a brake controller is directly to the battery with either a 20 amp circuit breaker like part # 9506P or 30 amp circuit breaker like part # 38630 placed 6" from the positive terminal. The correct size circuit breaker for your application will depend on how many axles have brakes on your trailer.

Since the controller is wired directly to the battery then it will receive power constantly however, most controllers including the Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller part # TK90160 have a sleep mode feature that activates about 15 minutes after the vehicle is turned off. This sleep mode feature will ensure the controller does not drain the vehicle's battery.

expert reply by: Conner L