Does the Curt Echo Still Work When Using Apps on my Phone

Question:

Looking to purchase break controller for 2017 GMC Serria 1500 to tow 20ft airstream Bambi. Thinking about the Bluetooth technology of the Curt Echo wireless. Can you keep apple car play on while using the app? Want to use google maps from phone and the break control app. Can you do both? Thanks for your help.

asked by: Seth

Expert Reply:

For the most part, the Curt Echo # C51180 is going to allow you to do what you're wanting to do; you'll still be able to have the google maps and phone functions available and running while towing. Because the Curt Echo Mobile brake controller # C51180 works to offer proportional braking for your trailer by sensing the deceleration in the vehicle, it will still apply the brakes even when the app isn't open. However, when the Echo app is not open, you won't have the emergency/manual override function available to use in a pinch. So basically, the brakes on the trailer will work, but you won't be able to have the manual override feature available if the app isn't open and you're using the phone.

If you don't like the idea of not always having the manual override available, I recommend checking out the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Trailer Brake Controller # RED44FR which can be installed easily on your 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 using the adapter plug # 331-TPH-010. This is also a proportional controller and it installs pretty much anywhere on your truck, so it's out of the way and will give you the same convenience of the Echo-minus the phone controls. The Tow-Pro Elite has a control knob that is used for user control mode and the manual override/emergency brake control, so it's a great option that won't interfere with your Apple CarPlay features and still provides you with many of the same perks found on the Echo.

I've linked some short review videos of these parts that you can check out and learn a bit more.

expert reply by: Erik B