Why Wouldn't Curt Echo Brake Controller Apply Trailer Brakes with Brake Pedal at Stop

Question:

Hello, I have the Curt Echo Brake Controller. Today I tested the brakes without using the app to engage the brakes. When I had someone press on the car brake, I did not hear the electronic brakes engaging. They definitely engage when I use the app though. Is the app required for the controller to engage the brakes? I should be able to just press the car brakes to engage the trailer brakes correct? Thanks.

asked by: Ken

Expert Reply:

The Curt Echo Mobile Trailer Brake Controller # C51180 that you have is a proportional controller which means it needs to sense deceleration for it to start applying trailer brakes. If you apply the vehicle brakes while at a stop the controller can tell you aren't moving so it doesn't apply the brakes. Basically when you apply the brakes in the vehicle that tells the Echo that it needs to start looking for deceleration and to apply a proportional amount of braking on the trailer brakes.

expert reply by: Jameson C