2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 Factory Brake Controller Stops Working When It's Over 70 Degrees Out

Question:

I have 2021 Silverado LT Trail Boss with the factory trailer brake controller. Even after the dealer replacing it it still displays a message saying “service trailer brakes” anytime its over 70F outside with or without a trailer hooked up. I read on some forums of others having similar issues that heat for some reason is causing an error but no one seems to have a solution. With summertime approaching Id like to get this fixed so I can tow heavier loads more confidently that my brakes are going to stay working as the temp rises.

asked by: Samuel T

Expert Reply:

Hi Samuel,

If the temperature is an issue that tells me you either have some sort of software issue that is somehow linked to a temperature sensor in your truck or something is overheating in your brake controller setup and shutting off. Either way, that's something only GM would be able to correct. In the meantime you can use an aftermarket brake controller to override your factory one.

You could go with the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 # 90195 along with a plug-and-play adapter # 3064-P for a quick and easy installation. This will take over and allow you to activate the trailer brakes without issue.

expert reply by: Kevin C