Lela Stratton
Tekonsha 90195 Electronic Brake Control
Reese Towpower Digital Brake Control
CURT 51140 TriFlex Electric Trailer Brake Controller
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Towing a trailer can be quite a task, difficult and frustrating are the right words actually. It worsens if you do not have a brake controller. If you tow a trailer and you have particularly been worried about your braking, this is the right article for you.
What is a brake controller and why do I need it? You may ask. Well, imagine towing a trailer downhill carrying heavy loads and when you try to brake, your tow vehicle stops, but your trailer doesn’t? Fatal if you ask me!
You probably have your answer by now, yes you do need a brake controller. Why? To sync up your tow vehicle brakes to your trailer brakes hence managing your stopping distance.
Well now you know that you definitely need a brake controller and why you need it. How do you get the right one? Simple, read this article to the end to get a gist of what you need.
I have compiled a list of some of the best brake controllers in the market just for you. Take your time therefore to go through each one of them and pick one that suits your braking needs.
Best Trailer Brake Controller List
1
Tekonsha 90195 Electronic Brake Control
This constitutes a Tekonsha model and most people would consider it the best brake controller in the market. I bet you will too after I take you through its outstanding features. For starters, it has a bright easy to read LCD display screen which makes it easy to take diagnostic readings and make adjustments where necessary.
This model can be considered versatile as it is compatible with electric and hydraulic braking modes. The fact that it comes in three languages and has a break boost feature is a plus. You will be surprised to find out that it works on a maximum of four braking axels and you can save settings for up to five separate trailers.
A downside would be that it is not cheap. You would therefore have to part with quite a huge sum but you could negotiate with your seller for the best possible price. While some would call it expensive, I’d choose to term it as getting value for your money, the decision is yours though.
Pros
Cons
2
Reese Towpower Digital Brake Control
Well if you love simplicity, then this should definitely be your pick. This is a simple design with installation and setting up being pretty straightforward. You just need to use the big chunky buttons to adjust trailer weight and activate the breaks and you’ll be set to go.
Talk of flexibility, this model has no orientation issues thus you can hang it in whichever way that strikes your fancy. A downside would be that it has shorter installation wires compared to other models. Its price is also not that pocket friendly, but it is definitely worth spending on.
Are you looking for a simple, easy to use design? Are you also willing to spend extra on a good brake controller? Well, you have most definitely found your match in this exemplary Reese Towpower digital brake control!
Pros
Cons
3
CURT 51140 TriFlex Electric Trailer Brake Controller
This interesting design is a CURT model. Why do I call it interesting? Look at this, it has a built-in triple axis motion sensing accelerometer, how cool is that!
You may ask why an accelerometer is necessary. This is simple, it measures the acceleration or deceleration the controller undergoes then adjusts the trailer brakes to match this. This therefore means that your braking power is adjusted depending on the type of terrain whether hilly, flat or on gravel, this brake controller has got you covered.
This model has nine levels of braking sensitivity which many may consider a plus. On the flip side though, it is not a true proportional brake control. Whichever way you decide to look at it, keep in mind that it is a great model especially due to its triple axis feature which makes it stand out from other models in the market.
You will be more intrigued to know that its price is quite lower than other models thus very pocket friendly.
Pros
Cons
4
Draw- Tite I-Stop Electronic Brake Control
Unlike the Curt triflex model, it is a proportional trailer brake control. It is however a more basic model compared to other similar models in the market. While this would mean that it is simple, it is quite frustrating to note that it lacks a few things that a premium model has.
You should not worry however because it is self levelling and has a well designed Installation cradle. If you deal in heavy loads especially, you will be happy to find out that its boost is useful for heavy loads.
This model has three braking axels. For 70 bucks, you get a good proportional brake control with three axels, how wild is that! This is too good of a deal to be true if you ask me.
This model is a little to basic though with a small simple screen that won’t let you read complex diagnostic information. You will likewise have a hard time braking on a lose surface like gravel. But, for 70 bucks, you will definitely get what you pay for!
Pros
Cons
5
Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control
This can be considered a simpler version of the Tekonsha model we looked at. It has a simple LED screen and has a dial instead of buttons. Owing to these features, it is impossible to make delicate adjustments to brake power or the set up of the device.
It is quite similar to the former model in so many ways including its simplicity. It also utilizes the primary sensor technology which includes the boost feature. You definitely know what that means, you do not need to worry about braking power when carrying heavier loads because of the boost feature.
When issues occur, its self diagnostic feature will illuminate the LED read out. It works proportionally in reverse. It also has a snap in dash monitoring clip and removable electrical connector allowing the unit to be quickly stored when not in use.
How about the price? Your guess is as good as mine. Like the former model, It is quite pocket friendly and therefore worth spending on considering its features.
Pros
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Things to Consider Before Purchasing the Best Trailer Brake Controller
Choosing the best trailer brake controller can sometimes be a hard task to manage. There are a lot of factors affecting the purchase and acquisition of these items. You are required to be extra keen when attempting to add these products to your shopping cart.
A trailer brake controller performs a variety of functions in relation to the performance and workability aspects of the brake system. It enhances its performance to ensure that minimalistic accidents occur when stopping.
Before making any purchases, you should consider the types of controllers to purchase. In this segment, we intend to review the different types of controllers and how to know the best ones for your vehicle.
You should always choose models that work properly. A perfectly working controller will perform its functions for a long time. In addition, it won’t let you down at any instance. It is a lifelong investment that you should actually keep in mind.
The ease of installation should definitely be at the core of your considerations. Such a model will be easier to work with. A model that works well will definitely enhance your working experience. Driving will be safer with such types at your disposal.
We have carefully reviewed the particular types of trailer brake controllers and the factors you should always bear in mind when making purchases. Furthermore, we have included a number of specifications that you can always look out for.
Conducting Market Research
This is definitely one of the most important considerations. It is the first process when it comes to making any particular purchases. Market research is imperative to the purchasing experience as it gives you more knowledge and information.
The most common categories of market research are online research and offline window shopping. Both methodologies have been found to be effective. You can choose the ones that suit you best.
It is all a matter of personal preference. We shall first take a look at online research. Online research basically involves the visitation of online stores so as to find the best option for you.
Additionally, you can take a good look at the specifications of the products in the market. Knowing your products is very important. It not only ensures that you get the quality products also the ones that are in perfect working condition.
For a very long time, buyers have fallen prey to the malicious actions of fraudulent sellers, especially in online markets. This has resulted in the purchase of poor-quality products that are complex to use and also costly to maintain.
This, however, has been avoided, thanks to the introduction of legitimate online stores that give all customers the chance to find the quality product they deserve. Relevant information has been made available on such platforms.
There are no instances where you will find it hard to determine the right product for your trailer.
The information that has been made available is sufficient to create awareness about all market products and the acid test you should conduct to stay on the safe side at all times.
Additional aspects when it comes to brake controllers are customer reviews and product ratings. Both aspects have been found to be critical to the research process, as they are rewarding in their own unique ways.
A customer review gives you information stemming from the buyers' perspective. A review from an authentic purchaser will indicate to you the proficiency of the product in terms of performance and workability in modern markets.
Product ratings essentially give you a bearing on what to consider. They are usually done out of five. An average model will score a rating of four.
You should definitely consider picking such models, as they have been considered by a majority to be perfectly suitable.
Window shopping, on the other hand, seeks to give the buyer the perspective of an ordinary person. This is because you get to conduct your research in person.
You basically make trips to the local stores, supermarkets or wholesale shops, so as to determine the product you want to choose with respect to the specifications, testing and durability aspects.
The good thing about this method of research is that you get to see your products. You are able to test them. You can also ask any types of questions. You actually enjoy the privilege of asking anything you want and also trying out any product.
Consultations are made faster. It is easier to make a purchase. This is because you get to interact with the seller first-hand. Additionally, manufacturers and sellers can give you sale discounts.
Before making any purchase, it is advisable that you conduct adequate market research. Some experts recommend that you handle both methodologies in equal measure. It is all about preferences and convenience.
You can choose the method that suits you best. Furthermore, you can complement both aspects, so as to get a rewarding experience in the long run.
Brake Boost
A good model will be able to sense the heavy braking at any given time. After doing so in relevance, it will make emergency stops without resulting in defectiveness or sluggishness. Performance is assured.
The rates of power can range at 5 or 10%. This is very helpful to the user, as the extra power is needed to boost braking and make emergency stops in quick succession.
The advantage of purchasing a model with a higher brake boost is that you will be able to stop a heavy load with ease. The motion will be done quickly, and all road users will be completely safe during the incident.
Number of Axles
When determining this factor, you are basically required to consider the wheels on the trailer. You can then divide this by two, so as to determine the exact number of axles your controller needs to stay in control.
A good number of models will work perfectly in handling two or three axles. There are other models, however, that can handle as many as four axles. You should consider this factor, as you definitely appreciate an extra set of wheels.
Built-in Screen
The availability of a bright LED display will be an additional accessory. The screens are easier to set up. Furthermore, they come with tons of advantages, the major one being the ease of getting diagnostics in a simple presentation.
These displays are user-friendly in every aspect. You should choose a model that has a bright display. Additionally, it should be easier to read. Some have red indicators. All in all, picking a model with this feature is an added advantage.
Additional Features
It is advisable that you go for a model that is easier to set up. Furthermore, the compactness of the unit will make it easier to install and use. The design of the controller should be wholly durable and structured with high-quality materials.
Safety
You are advised to always adhere to the safety rules and regulations. The brake control kit is an accessory that will act to give you additional safety assurance.
Application of the brake force is aided by the controller when the braking power is activated by the trailer brakes.
The best brake controller will give you good value for money.
The Types of Trailer Brake Controllers
When choosing a brake controller, it is advisable that you first look at the difference between the types of controllers. There are basically two types of controllers.
You are required to choose the best from this category, or the one that suits your needs perfectly
Proportional Brake Controllers
The proportional brake controllers have been designed in a complex nature. They are considered to be the premium models, essentially because they are sold at a relatively higher price than their counterparts.
The systems of these models are quite superior. They can work perfectly and efficiently. They work by monitoring the speed of the vehicle. The good thing about these models is that they can easily sense deceleration rates and respond appropriately.
When choosing the brakes, you are advised to consider picking the types that are compatible with the brake controllers. This will reduce the instances of incompatibility that may result in accidents or sluggishness when it comes to application.
Their bespoke application with regard to braking power is quite something to reckon. They smooth down the slowing process. You may require some technical aid to install such models. However, you won’t be disappointed with their performance attributes.
The proportional models are to be installed in a particular angle arc so as to work in perfection. Proper functioning of the controller is important as it affects the braking motion. You should always consider this factor.
Time-delayed Brake Controllers
These types are considered to be much simpler in functionality and installation. They are also cheaper to acquire. In a nutshell, you won’t be required to pay large sums of money for acquisition.
Installation is a short process. This allows you to focus more on testability and workability. The mounting can be done at a certain angle, so as to guarantee the user of impeccable performance.
Furthermore, it allows you to set a percentage of braking power that is applied to the trailer brakes. This occurs when the brake pedal of the trailer is pushed at any particular time. This will give it quality working properties.
The functionality that has been observed in this model is the nature of the controller to effectuate the holding of power for a set amount of time.
The system of this model does not involve the supply of bespoke braking power levels. Stopping can be a bit abrupt. You will have to adjust to these workability characteristics, as they need time to get used to.
Conclusion
Your doubts as to whether you need a brake controller have been answered by now and you probably have a particular one on mind. No one certainly wants uncontrollable braking or unnecessary accidents when stopping a tow vehicle.
Of the five models I have analyzed, I would recommend the Tekonsha 90195 Electronic brake control. Anyone would recommend this given its exemplary features. A bright easy to read LCD display screen, a brake boost feature and multiplicity in languages are features worth spending on.
You should also not forget that it works on up to four braking axels and you can save settings for up to five separate trailers. You will need to convince me that there’s a brake controller in the market that works better than this. Though you will spend quite a fortune on it, you will definitely get value for your money.
It is also important to note that many satisfied users have reviewed this model as the best in the market. You cannot be left lagging! Join other users in having a great braking experience.
Don’t crack your head trying to deliberate on what brake controller to purchase or whether you do really need one. A Tekonsha 90195 electronic brake control is what you really need! Get yourself this model to suit all your braking needs!
