Tekonsha 90195 P3 Brake Controller Doesnt Shut Down With Vehicle Ignition Shut Off

Question:

My 2018 Tacoma was prewired for a brake controller, so it was easy to install the Teknosha P3, and it works fine. My problem is that the power to it never shuts off. The display is on all the time. Im sure its not much of a draw, but just seems wrong. It shouldnt be powered up when the key is off. Solution? Thanks.

asked by: Wayne B

Expert Reply:

Your brake controller is operating as it should.

Brake controllers are intentionally installed to that they have a direct power feed from the battery. This is done as a safety feature, so the user doesn't forget to turn the controller on before towing. The Tekonsha Prodigy P3, part # 90195 will go into a sleep mode after 15 or so minutes of inactivity. While in sleep mode, the power draw on the vehicle is tiny. So tiny that it would take the vehicle being left unattended for months before there'd be any danger of discharging the battery.

If it would ease your concerns, you could always unplug the # 3031-P harness from the rear of the unit when you're not using it, but you'll lose any settings you have stored. If you go that route, please don't forget to plug the controller back in before towing.

expert reply by: Mike L