Can Factory Brake Controller Be Installed on 2018 Chevy Silverado
Question:
Why cant the trailer brake controller be added if its not added at the build of the truck. If I can possess the module and the dash component why cant it be installed no one can tell me a straight answer can you guys?? Thank you
asked by: John
Expert Reply:
Based on my research the issue with installing a factory brake controller on your Silverado (post-factory) has to do with the factory harness and programming on the truck. Chevy's official stance is that it cannot be added after the fact. You might be able to obtain the correct components (controller, module, etc) and physically plug everything in but because of the truck's programming/computer it likely still won't work correctly without expensive modifications to the truck's system.
The best option I can offer for your Silverado is the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite # RED44FR, which provides a sleek OEM type appearance with its small control knob that can mount in the dash. This is a really nice proportional controller that will automatically send power back to the trailer brakes in proportion to the truck's deceleration. If your Silverado has the tow package you just need the Plug-In Harness # 331-TPH-010 to allow for a simple plug-and-play install.
I have attached a customer submitted image of the controller installed on the dash of his 2018 Silverado that you can check out as well.
If you'd rather not have anything mounted in the cab at all we also have the Curt Echo # C51180 that simply plugs into the 7-Way connector at the back of the truck and pairs to your smart phone via Bluetooth. Your phone is then what is used to adjust any settings or activate the manual override so nothing extra needs to be added to the truck.
I have attached a short video demonstration that you can check out as well.
Products Referenced in This Question
Redarc Plug-and-Play Wiring Harness for Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controllers
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Wiring Adapter
- Plugs into Brake Controller
- Vehicle Specific
- Redarc
more information >
Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller - 7-Way Plug Mount w/ Bluetooth App - 1 to 2 Axle - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Hidden
- Up to 2 Axles
- Smartphone Display
- CURT
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Brake Controller - Dash Knob - 2 Braking Modes - 1 to 3 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Dash-Mounted Knob
- Hidden
- Up to 3 Axles
- Indicator Lights
- Redarc
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Shop: Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Brake Controller - Dash Knob - 2 Braking Modes - 1 to 3 Axles - Proportional
- Shop: Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller - Dash Knob - 1 to 2 Axles - Proportional
- Shop: Redarc Plug-and-Play Wiring Harness for Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controllers
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Shop: Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller - Dash Mounted Knob - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Shop: Air Lift Union Tee for 1/4" Air Lines
- Shop: Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate Air Helper Springs with Internal Jounce Bumpers - Rear Axle
- Shop: Performance Chip Tuners
- Shop: Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Universal Wiring Harness - Dash Knob - Proportional
- Search Results: roof vent
- Video: Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller Installation - 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- Search Results: 331~tph~010
- Video: Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller Review
- Video: Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller Installation - 2020 Chevrolet Colorado
- Q&A: Factory Brake Controller Port Location on 2018 Chevy Silverado 1500
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Q&A: Can a Trailer Brake Controller be Added to 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 With Factory Tow Package
- Video: Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Trailer Brake Controller Installation - 2022 Nissan Frontier
- Q&A: Disabling the GM Factory Installed Integrated Trailer Brake Control (ITBC) on 2018 Silverado 2500 HD
- Shop: Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Shop: Towing Mirrors
- Video: Review of Air Lift Vehicle Suspension - SlamAir Air Helper Springs for Lowered Trucks - AL59202
- Q&A: Harness Needed To Install Curt Brake Controller On a 2015 Chevy Silverado 1500
- Article: The 5 Best Trailer Drop Hitches You Can Buy
- Shop: Nerf Bars - Running Boards
- Video: Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Trailer Brake Controller Installation - 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- Search Results: red44fr
- Search Results: 51170
- Video: Rampage SuperBrite LED Tailgate Light Bar Review RA960134