Comparing Curt Spectrum and Redarc Tow Pro Elite Brake Controllers for 2020 Audi Q5

Question:

I have a 2020 Audi Q5 with an OEM hitch and wiring. I'm looking to add a brake controller and wanted to know what the benefits of the Curt Spectrum or the Red Arc tow pro elite are, which one is better for my Q5?

asked by: Blake A

Expert Reply:

Both the Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller # C51170 and the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Trailer Brake Controller # RED44FR are excellent brake controllers for your 2020 Audi Q5, I recommend the Redarc Tow Pro Elite over the Curt Spectrum.

Both controllers can be used as a proportional brake controller, which means they will apply the brakes to your trailer at the same time and intensity you apply the brakes to your Audi, however the Redarc also has a "User Control Mode". This applies the brakes to the trailer in a predetermined time and intensity when you brake in your Q5. This is a really nice feature that allows you to fine tune how your trailer acts when braking and can be used in many applications which gives it an edge over the Spectrum.

Aside from that the controllers are both very similar, both controllers are remote mount and can be mounted in such a way that they look factory, or close to it. The advantage the Spectrum has over the Tow Pro Elite is the control knob mounting. The Spectrum can be mounted using adhesive and the wires are very thin coming out of the back, so in some cases it can be mounted without drilling. With the Tow Pro Elite the face is smaller, but the mounting depth is much larger and you'll need to make sure there is enough clearance behind where it's mounting and will require drilling to be mounted..

I linked both the controllers, and included a few review videos for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Robert C