Comparing the Tekonsha POD and Prodigy P2 Brake Controllers for 2022 Honda Ridgeline

Question:

I am sifting through the product information to understand the difference between the Tekonsha POD and the Prodigy P2. Other than the P2 being a bit narrower and can activate an ele/hyd system I read that the performance items are identical. Can you illuminate any other differences? Is the parasitic drain the same for both units? Thanks.

asked by: R. C

Expert Reply:

It looks like you are comparing the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Brake Controller # 90885 with the Tekonsha POD brake controller # 39523, both of which are compatible with your 2022 Honda Ridgeline when used with the Plug-In Adapter # 3070-P.

To start off, you are correct that the Prodigy P2 can be used with electric trailer brakes and electric-over-hydraulic trailer brakes, while the POD is only compatible with electric trailer brakes. Assuming your trailer has electric brakes, the next comparison is that the P2 works with up to 4 braking axles, while the POD works with up to 2 braking axles, which shouldn't be an issue considering your Honda Ridgeline likely won't be pulling a 4 axle trailer. There will be no noticeable difference in parasitic draw between these two controllers.

When it comes to the overall function, these controllers are very different. The P2 is proportional, meaning it applies the trailer brakes at the same time and force as the tow vehicle brakes. The POD is time-delayed, meaning the trailer braking is not immediate and not at the same force as the tow brakes. For these reasons, I would go with the Prodigy P2 # 90885 and the adapter # 3070-P