Curt Echo or Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Brake Controller for 2019 Honda Passport

Question:

I just bought a new 2019 Honda Passport with the factory tow package, and while the Curt Echo brake controller looks like a great option, Im concerned with some of the reviews Ive seen on Amazon related to overheating and other electrical issues. What issues have you heard about with the Curt Echo? The other option Im looking at is the Tekonsha Prodigy P3. Is that a good option for the 2019 Passport? And if I dont mind having something mounted under the dash, would you recommend the Curt Echo or the Tekonsha P3? Thanks!

asked by: Matt W

Expert Reply:

For your 2019 Honda Passport I do recommend going with the Curt Echo Brake Controller # C51180. We honestly have not heard of any of the over-heating/electrical issues that you mentioned seeing and we do get a lot of customer feedback on this particular unit.

This is actually a really great question because it's putting what many have believed for a long time to be the golden standard for trailer brake controllers with the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 # 90195 against the new and unique Curt Echo # C51180, which has quickly established enormous popularity and praise because of its modern design.

The Curt Echo, as you already mentioned, eliminates the need for an additional component mounted in the cab. This doesn't sound like something you are terribly against to begin with, but it is a major plus with the Echo and something I think you will eventually appreciate more over time. Having a monitor in the cab for the Prodigy P3 (and most other brake controllers) isn't a negative at all when you're actually towing a trailer - it allows for easy adjustments and peace-of-mind monitoring during this scenario. The problem though is all the every day trips you take without a trailer attached where you still have this monitor taking up space and potentially battling your shins when it's simply serving no purpose.

Because the Echo allows you to use your phone to adjust any settings or monitor potential issues, it simply creates a much cleaner user experience as you transition back and forth between towing and every day driving.

The Curt Echo also allows for an easier initial installation, since it simply gets plugged into a 7-Way at the rear of the vehicle. And that's it. It only requires that the 12V circuit on the 7-Way is activate so you also don't need to worry about an additional brake output wire extending from the connector up to the cab of your vehicle. This also makes it incredibly easy to transfer the unit between different vehicles if you happen to tow your trailer with anything other than the Passport.

The Prodigy P3 is a fantastic brake controller but I just think the ease of use paired with the excellent function of the Curt Echo makes it the better choice for your Honda Passport. I have attached a short video demonstration that you can check out as well.