Choosing Curt C51170 Spectrum or Redarc 331-EBRH-ACCV2 Tow Pro Brake Controller for 2019 Audi Q5
Question:
I need a brake controler for my 2019 Audi Q5 SUV. I'm not sure which to choose between the Curt Spectrum or the Redarc Tow Pro Elite. How do they differ? Which is more recommended?
asked by: Gene S
Expert Reply:
The controllers are fairly similar in that they're designed so that the user interface is very unobtrusive. No more ugly box hanging on the underside of the dash that you can bang your knee on. Both controllers use a small knob that can be mounted pretty much wherever it would be within the driver's reach.
Now, for the differences. The control knob of the # C51170 is quite a bit larger than that of the Redarc # RED44FR Tow Pro Elite, and it surface mounts. The Redarc would require a small hole but an optional bezel # 331-TPSI-001 is available to dress it up, and if your Audi has blank knockouts on the dash for switches they would make a great spot to mount the knob. Both controllers are proportional, but the Redarc also adds a 'user-controlled mode' which allows the controller to act in a time-delayed mode which can be helpful if you're towing off road. The Redarc includes the wiring pigtail, while you'd need to purchase the # C51515 pigtail for the Curt Spectrum.
If I were the one faced with the decision on which controller to mount in a luxury SUV, I'd choose the Redarc strictly because the control knob is smaller and more visually appealing. Either controller would work great for you, there's no wrong choice here.
To wire the controller, you'll need the brake controller installation kit, part # ETBC7 and a functional 4 pole trailer connector, part # 119250KIT.
Products Referenced in This Question
ZCI Circuit Protected Vehicle Wiring Harness w/ 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector and Installation Kit
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Converter
- Universal Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
Universal Mounting Panel for Redarc Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controller Control Knob
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Control Knob Mounting Panel
- Universal
- Redarc
more information >
Universal Wiring Adapter for Curt Trailer Brake Controllers
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Wiring Adapter
- Plugs into Brake Controller
- Universal
- CURT
more information >
Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
more information >
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 >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller - Dash Mounted Knob - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Dash-Mounted Knob
- Hidden
- Up to 4 Axles
- Indicator Lights
- Up to 360 Degrees
- CURT
more information >
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