Does a Brake Controller Have to be Used When Towing a 3,200 lb Trailer with a 2017 Ford Explorer

Updated 08/28/2018 | Published 08/27/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter for Electric Brake Controllers - Ford, Lincoln, Mercury

(1784)

$21.54

Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(6507)

$179.89

Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires

(3326)

$124.36

Question:

Hi - I have a 2017 Ford Explorer and am towing a 3200lbs travel trailer. I have a tow package and am wondering if I need to purchase and install a break controller? Is this necessary? Does the tow package compensate for this feature already? Thanks.

asked by: James W

Expert Reply:

Any trailer that has brakes installed needs to be towed by a vehicle using a brake controller. Some owner's manuals specifically call out that different trailer weights need to have brakes installed but right off the bat, if your trailer already has brakes the answer is yes. I took a look at the online version of the owner's manual for your 2017 Ford Explorer and didn't see any stipulations but you will want to verify this with your copy as well.

If your Explorer came with the factory 7-Way then all you need is an adapter like part # 3035-P which is compatible with the popular Prodigy P3 # 90195. I highly recommend this controller not just because of the almost 4,000 great reviews it has received, but also because it uses an LCD screen that makes operation much easier.

Attached is a review video of both of these parts, as well as the Kit # ETBC7, bing installed on a 2013 Explorer. If your Explorer came with a 4-Way then you will need to install the ETBC7 kit just like what is done in the video, otherwise just skip to the 9:40 mark and you can see where the plug for the adapter is located under the driver's side dash.

expert reply by: Jon G