To see if this custom-fit item will work for you please tell us what vehicle you'll use it with.
Bluetooth-enabled brake controller wirelessly connects to your smartphone, turning your phone into a brake controller interface. Easily adjust braking power, get error readouts, and switch between trailer profiles with the control app.
Features:
Specs:
With a proportional brake controller, you can get heavy-duty emergency braking, general braking, or slow-to-an-idle braking for your trailer automatically. The intensity with which your trailer brakes are activated and the rate at which they are applied are dependent on the deceleration of your tow vehicle. This means that, unlike time-delay controllers - which send the same amount of preset power to your trailer brakes every time - proportional controllers are able to adapt to every braking situation differently. So, if you slam on the brakes in your truck, your trailer brakes will activate with that same extreme intensity. And if you merely slow down as you approach a red light, your trailer will gradually brake in the same manner.
Once the Echo is mounted, it will sense - via an internal 3-axis accelerometer - how your tow vehicle brakes. This inertia-based sensor responds to the deceleration of your tow vehicle as you brake by signaling the controller to send out enough power to your trailer brakes so that they are activated with an intensity that matches. The result is uniform braking across your towing setup. No push-pull action - just smooth, proportional braking every time.
For even easier installation, a vehicle-specific wiring adapter (sold separately) is available for most newer trucks and SUVs. One end of the custom adapter plugs into your vehicle, and the other end plugs into the controller - no hardwiring required.
Note: If a custom brake control wiring adapter is not available for your vehicle, a 30-amp circuit breaker (sold separately) may be required for installation.
See also etrailer.com's exclusive 7- and 4-way brake control installation kit (ETBC7 - sold separately) if you don't already have a 7-way plug at the back of your vehicle.
Videos are provided as a guide only. Refer to manufacturer installation instructions and specs for complete information.
Hi everybody, my name is Andy with etrailer.com. And today we're taking a look at this Curt Echo under-dash proportional trailer brake controller. With this Bluetooth enabled trailer brake controller. This is going to allow you to connect wirelessly to your smartphone, to allow that smartphone to become the primary interface in controlling this brake controller. Let's take a closer look at it together. Now, this is a proportional brake controller.
So that means it's going to activate your trailer brakes in proportion to your vehicle's braking action. And it activates immediately no pausing like with time-delayed brake controllers. The main module that we're looking at here is going to mount out of sight at any orientation. So what that means for you is, no more banging your knee on a bulky brake controller. And there's not gonna be any interference with airbags or other vehicle accessories.
Ultimately, once you have this installed, you're not even gonna know that it's in the cab of your vehicle. And then the Bluetooth is going to connect directly to your smart device for operation, allowing you to operate the brake controller from the cab of your vehicle, using your smartphone. Now the intuitive user-friendly app on your smartphone is gonna allow you to connect, monitor, and control all of your trailer, breaking activities, such as, adjusting the braking, power, and aggressiveness, receiving error notifications if the trailer is overloaded or becomes disconnected during travel and even customize and switch between trailer profiles. This is a triple axis accelerometer that it contains, and it's highly responsive to ensure a smooth uniform stopping action. And it allows the unit to automatically level and calibrate.
Now, once the Echo is mounted, it will sense via that internal three axis accelerometer, how your tow vehicle brakes and this inertia based sensor is gonna respond to the deceleration of your tow vehicle as you brake by signaling the controller to send out enough power to your trailer brakes, so that they are activated with an intensity that matches. The result is uniform breaking across your towing setup. No push pull action, just smooth proportional braking every time. Now this does have an LED indicator light on the body of this module. So when you do mount this, whether it's underneath your dashboard or hidden underneath the panel, you just wanna make sure that you're able to see that led during the setup.
And that is going to help you with troubleshooting. And what I have here is this does come with a quick reference guide. And I just wanted to walk through what the individual lights mean. And I would recommend keeping this quick reference guide in the console of your vehicle or in the glove box, just so you always have it on hand. But the first light that's on this quick reference guide is the blue flashing light. And that's gonna indicate that your device is not paired and that there's no trailer connected. And then moving at the next light here, the solid blue light. That's gonna indicate that the device is paired, but there's no trailer connected. And then moving to the flashing yellow light, that's gonna indicate that your Curt Echo trailer brake controller is calibrating. And then obviously, if there is no light, that means no power. Moving down to the solid green light. That's gonna mean that your device is paired and that the trailer is connected. And then the flashing green light is going to indicate that the device is not paired and that the trailer is connected. And then moving down to the flashing red light, that's gonna indicate a wiring error. And then the solid red light is going to indicate a hardware fault. Also on this quick reference guide, it's going to show you how you can activate your profile, but your profile's in the app. And then it's also gonna have QR codes for the app, whether you're using your iPhone or your Android device. And then it's going to have the Bluetooth pin number on the back here. So, this is again, something that you'll wanna keep in your vehicle for a quick reference. And that's gonna be are really helpful for you. Now, not only do you have that LED light, but you also have these very small switches here. And what those switches are, is the first one, is gonna be your brake light activation feature with the manual control. And then the second switch in there is gonna control the level of output available to the trailer brakes when using the manual control. Again, the instruction guide will show you how to use those switches and how to change them. And it's very easy to do and very clear instructions on how, to use those. Now, there are integrated safe guards to protect the vehicle, the trailer and controller, such as the controllers built to function based on selected settings, even if the Bluetooth connection is lost. And there is built-in reverse polarity and short circuit protection. This brake controller is compatible with, ABS brakes, cruise control, low voltage wiring and pulse with modulation. A plug-in vehicle specific wiring adapter is sold separately. And you can find one of those for most newer trucks and SUV's. And that can be used to reduce your installation time. And the one end we'll just plug, the one end of the custom adapter is just gonna plug into your vehicle and the other end will plug into the controller. And if you have one of those available for your vehicle, then no hard wiring will be required. Now this will include this under-dash unit that we've been looking at, but it also will include the instructions that I've mentioned before, and that very handy, quick reference guide. And then you're gonna get four zip ties and an adhesive pad to help you mount this module. Again, the Bluetooth pin is going to be on this quick reference guide. And that's going to help you in pairing your smart device with your controller. And this is going to work with trailers up to four axles and eight brake assemblies. And this is designed for use with electric or electric over hydraulic trailer brakes. And the smart device OS requirements for Apple, it's gonna be iOS 8.0 or newer. And for Android, it's going to be 4.4 and newer. And again, just to give you an idea of the size here, we're gonna be looking right at, about 3 1/8 by 3 1/2. Just kinda giving you an idea of the size there of this controller itself. And this does have a limited lifetime warranty. Now for custom brake controller wiring adapter is not available for your particular vehicle, a 30 Amp circuit breaker, which is sold separately, may be required for the installation. And if you do not have a seven way plug on the back of your vehicle, take a look at ETBC7 on etrailer.com, our website. And that is a seven way and four way brake control installation kit that will work with this brake controller if you need that seven way plug. Another recommendation that I would have, is the Curt manual override button for their Bluetooth wireless brake controllers. And that's just a button, a manual override button to help you engage those brakes manually. If you're using your phone for something else. You can find that on our website item number C-8-3-H-R. And that would be a good item to consider picking up along with this brake controller. Well, that's gonna conclude our look today at the Curt Echo under-dash proportional trailer brake controller. Again, my name is Andy. Thank you for joining me..
Average Customer Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars (797 Customer Reviews)
Bluetooth-enabled brake controller wirelessly connects to your smartphone, turning your phone into a brake controller interface. Easily adjust braking power, get error readouts, and switch between trailer profiles with the control app.Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
I used this kit to convert an OEM 4-way flat connector to a 7-way on a 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser. Easy, straightforward install. Only issue I ran into was that I had to elongate the kit mounting bracket holes to use the existing bracket holes. etrailer provides excellent written and video installation instructions.
Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
We purchased a new Hyundai Palisade that had an OEM hitch and “prewiring” for trailering. Unfortunately this prewiring was only a 4-pin connector so it did not include wiring for controlling electric trailer brakes. We finally convinced the dealer to install a 7-pin connector - if we obtained the appropriate parts from etrailer.com. George J. at etrailer.com recommended this kit (#ETBC7) as the parts we needed for conversion to a 7-pin connector. The car dealer’s service department installed the 7-pin connector while we waited for 5 hours. With a wireless brake controller, everything now works properly for towing our Casita. This photo shows the installation after I modified it so that the connector was above the hitch instead of below it (too close to the ground). I had to fashion a bracket for appropriate spacing and I left several bolts that attach it to the etrailer.com bracket (oops).
Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
A GREAT product! I use this for a 20ft. Carson enclosed trailer I tow with a Tesla Model Y. This solved the whole issue of installing a brake controller in the Tesla, as it simply plugs into the trailer wiring connector and pairs with my iPhone. My phone app acts as the accelerometer and the screen is a big red button that applies the brake if you need to. But, the accelerometer braking is smooth and steady and worked perfectly right out of the box in just minutes! This also allows me to have brakes if I want to use another vehicle to tow with, I just plug it in to that vehicle. THANKS CURT & etrailer.com!
Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
I like it. It works as advertised. My 2019 Buick Enclave was not prewired for a controller. I could not find the correct wires and the dealers could not provide a wiring diagram. They were charging more to install my 17 year existing brake controller than the Curt product cost. Some dealers would not install a used product. I just finished a six hour trip with a two horse trailer, problem free. It has a band to secure it, but there is a lot of weight bearing on the connections. I may design a way to help support it. I love the portability and convenience. I highly recommend this product.
George - 01/11/2022Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
It is potentially a good product but at this point, I will probably buy a hard wired unit. #1. It does not provide enough power to the trailer brakes. I have tested it against my hard wired truck. The truck can nearly lock the brakes manually applied, this unit, with my Ford Flex, will barely slow the car down at an idle roll. I don't know if the reason is that the Flex trailer connector is angled down. I can't change that. Fortunately, the trailer is under 2000# and has the optional brakes. #2. I use my phone for GPS also. That does not allow the use of the trailer emergency braking button, which in my case does virtually nothing.
Jenny N - 12/09/2021Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
The package arrived crumpled in the box and was missing its strap
Brooke M - 09/14/2021Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
Easy install and setup but would prefer in cab unit Big issue was it would lose its connection with phone when sitting unused and had to start over. Good news is it retains its last setting and function even with contact loss. I complained to Curt and they sent me a upgraded unit as mine was a first issue. They expect a better result but I have had an occasion to use it. I am not a big fan of smart phones and using it in a emergency stopping situation seems impractical for me.
Bruce S - 01/04/2022Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
This was so easy to use! The videos were a great source of inspiration, having not ever used a 7 pin connector before and about to tow a trailer a few hundred miles for the first time!
Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
I Actually like this better than the hard wired controller. It applies the brakes more evenly and proportionate to how hard the brake pedal is being pressed. Since I only transport one trailer at a time, I’ve unhooked the power to the hard wired controllers in all of my vehicles and use this solely. Great product and I’ll be buying another for aure
Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
Have had a hard wired break controller in the past. It worked great. This one here works very good. I really like that it is universal from one vehicle to another. I use the option for multiple vehicle / trailer configurations for when my trailer is loaded or unloaded. The availability to switch from one tow vehicle to another and have the electric breaks work is a real plus. I went way to long with no trailer breaks before I had my previous hard wired unit installed on my previous vehicle. I really do like this new wireless unit (Don’t be afraid to work with the Bluetooth adjustments a bit to get it dialed in to near perfection)
Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
This brake controller is super easy to use. We had no issues setting it up. The small rubber strap That secures it is concerning So we also used a zip tie. etrailer is amazing with customer service and delivery
Azure - 11/18/2021Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
The Curt Echo Wireless Trailer Brake Controller is a perfect solution for a wireless brake controller.
Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
Terrific product! So far, it has worked flawlessly for me. So much easier to install than running wires through the cab to a manual controller on the dash. Plug, sync, and play. I bought an inexpensive, unlocked smartphone to install the app on. I've got it mounted in a cup holder in my center console. At that location, the controller is right at my fingertips.
Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
BEWARE! Poor product design, and NO customer service help from CURT. The controller does have a safety strap, the ONLY method to secure it to the tow vehicle. BUT, the essential button fastener is not permanently attached, is very small, easy to lose, can't cost more than a few pennies to manufacture, and the strap is USELESS without it. Curt could at least include an extra fastener in the controller package. Having to purchase an entire strap to replace the fastener is very inconvenient and expensive for the consumer.
Jenny N - 10/25/2021
Helpful LinkReview from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
I used this pulling a 9000 lb camper it worked great all you need to do is download the app plug it in and connect to it via Bluetooth. Even if you loose Bluetooth the brakes still work. The only draw back is you don’t have a button to apply brakes in the trailer only, I don’t remember if the app had that option
Sam J - 10/11/2021Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
I needed this for the trailer behind the fifth wheel. And it has been working awesome. Does loose it’s blue tooth but still make the brakes work as I had it set.
Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
Product works completely as described. Easy to add a controller to ANY vehicle that has a 7 point trailer plug like my 2018 Chevy Silverado (no factory brake controller but has a prewired 7 and 4 point trailer plug) or my 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Trailer is a 2 axle CargoMate. App was a bit hard to find on the AppStore (iphone). Search "Echo" not Curt then it comes up. Set up is quick and easy to modify if necessary with load changes. App does not need to be normally running if you don't need to apply brakes manually. But if you do need to apply brakes, the response is surprisingly fast through the Bluetooth communication. No delay whatsoever. It doesn't interfere with other apps running either. I like to use navigation and stream music from my iphone 8. Only real issue I have with the product is that its not lockable. Very easy for someone who knows what they are looking for to just unplug and run. I parked overnight at a hotel and didn't realize it until the next day. Got lucky that it didn't get stolen, but now I'm aware and take it off when done towing.
John - 12/06/2019Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
The Curt Echo brake works flawlessly, and their support is over the top. We had a problem with our original Echo - due primarily to the wiring adapter etrailer sent that was mis-wired - the connections to the flat blades were reversed. It did something to the brake controller, but when I called Curt Echo they not only sent a new one, but had me stay on the line while they tracked one down to make sure it was in stock, and confirm that it would be sent out ASAP. Later, when I finally got my travel trailer, I called and they walked me through the settings I should use for the Echo. The new models have a strap that attaches it securely to the 7 pin connector. My only option for my Telluride turned out to be the best option.
Irene - 08/17/2021Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
I like the easiness of this brake controller without having the wires unit screwed Into lower dash. After properly setting the sensitivity, the unit has worked well. I tried to submit a few photos, but the download was unsuccessful.
Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
This works with my Genesis GV 80 with all it’s electronics but it needs more receiver stabilization in order to prevent it from dropping and rebooting the signal while driving . The rubber band attachment broke right away (button dropped off )and did not stabilize the receiver even before it broke.
Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
Great technology. Works great. Sometimes it pulls loose from plug, so I wrapped a little electrical tape around it to hold it tighter in place. Other than that, it is the best device I have found. I've pulled my trailer over 10,000 miles using it.
Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
It works reliably, but I did have some difficulty getting it set up. At speed it works smoothly, but at very low speed, when only going two or three miles per hour in a parking lot, the brakes come on rather suddenly and with some intensity.. This doesn't happen at normal driving speeds. I've been unable to adjust it so this doesn't happen. But the device works and saves me the hassle of wiring in a brake controller.
Sierra K - 10/25/2021Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
“All or nothing” the controller works and connects as described but doesn’t provide any gain control to adjust the sensitivity of the brakes. They are either 100% or zero. For clarity, the device provides both gain control and sentitivity they don’t appear to work with my vehicle (2015 RR sport) I called the manufacturer but they couldn’t trouble shoot a solution. Still, it’s better than nothing and under a heavy load it works well. When my trailer is empty (3000lbs ATC car hauler) it locks up the brakes when engaged.
Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
It has worked perfectly for me. I install it when I need it, and remove it when I don’t. The connection looks a little weak, but the locks work fine, I never had it unplugging by itself. The rubber belt that comes with it to secure the lock to the 7 pin cover is weak and easily gets lost, but I use some zip ties now and it works fine. I use single axel trailers up to 2800# and braking control is good.
Review from a similar Echo in Trailer Brake Controller
We installed the Kurt echo this morning step-by-step each step worked on my new Ford ranger pick up truck the car knew the trailer was there in the echo no the trailer was there we just did the sensitivity just one step and everything seems fine went for a nice long ride tried different speeds it’s everything works so I am so happy that it works.We installed the Kurt echo this morning step-by-step each step worked on my new Ford ranger pick up truck the car new the trailer was there in the ECHO no the trailer was there we just did the sensitivity just one step and everything seems fine went for a nice long ride tried different speeds it’s everything works so I’m so happy that it works
Daniel R - 08/22/2021The good news is the Curt Echo does not require cell phone service to function properly since it uses Bluetooth to connect.
-- Heather A - 9/1/2021
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