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  1. Trailer Brake Controller
  2. CURT
  3. Electric
  4. Electric over Hydraulic
  5. Proportional Controller
  6. Up to 4 Axles
Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller - Dash Mounted Knob - Up to 4 Axles - Proportional
CURT

Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller - Dash Mounted Knob - Up to 4 Axles - Proportional

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$239.95
Retail:$304.95
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You can stick the control knob to the dashboard, plug in the module, and your brake controller installation is done with no drilling and no hardwiring. The knob is large and easy to use, while the main unit is out of sight behind the dash. Great Prices for the best trailer brake controller from CURT. Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller - Dash Mounted Knob - Up to 4 Axles - Proportional part number C51170 can be ordered online at etrailer.com or call 1-800-940-8924 for expert service.
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  • Reviews (384)
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CURT Trailer Brake Controller

  • Electric
  • Electric over Hydraulic
  • Proportional Controller
  • Up to 4 Axles
  • CURT
  • Behind-Dash
  • Dash-Mounted Knob
  • Plug-In
  • Indicator Lights
  • Multiple Trailers

You can stick the control knob to the dashboard, plug in the module, and your brake controller installation is done with no drilling and no hardwiring. The knob is large and easy to use, while the main unit is out of sight behind the dash.


Features:

  • Proportional braking - Smooth, safe, and good for your brakes long-term
  • Fingertip control
    • Adjust braking output and sensitivity by turning the dial
    • Push the button to activate manual override
    • Troubleshoot with colored LED indicators
  • No-drill installation - Knob adheres to dash, main unit installs behind it
  • Assembled in the USA


Specs:

  • Application: trailers with up to 4 axles (8 brake assemblies)
    • Compatible with electric or electric-over-hydraulic trailer brakes
    • Compatible with ABS brakes, cruise control, low-voltage wiring, multiplex wiring, and PWM systems
  • Main unit dimensions: 3" long x 3-1/2" wide x 7/8" tall
  • Control knob dimensions:
    • Extension: 1-1/2"
    • Diameter: 1-3/4"
  • Cable length: 4'
  • Warranty:
    • Limited lifetime on brake controller
    • Limited 1-year on wiring harness


How Does the Curt Spectrum Work?

The Spectrum puts control of your trailer's brakes at your fingertips and, with bright LED indicators, you know what your brake controller is doing at a glance.


Curt Spectrum Dash-Mounted Knob

You can adjust all of your settings using the control knob. To switch between modes, press the control button in the center of the knob. Each mode has its own distinct LED display with several different colors and patterns to eliminate any guesswork as you cycle through.


Curt Spectrum LED diagnostics

Output: Braking output is the maximum amount of power that will be applied to your trailer's brakes. How much braking output you need is determined by the weight of your trailer; a heavier trailer will need more power to bring it to a stop. You want to set the braking output as high as you can without locking up the brakes.


Sensitivity: This controls the aggressiveness of your trailer's braking, meaning how quickly the brakes reach the set output level. This is a great adjustment to make when you're towing a heavy load and the trailer will need more umph to bring it to a stop so it doesn't push your vehicle forward. If your vehicle takes too long to come to a stop, increase the setting. If it stops too abruptly, lower the setting. You may also need to adjust the sensitivity based on your own preferences, or when the trailer load or road conditions change.


Manual Override: The Curt Spectrum keeps the manual override within easy reach. The manual override functions as time-based for a slow reduction in trailer braking, great for stopping sway or controlling your trailer's momentum in an emergency. To engage the manual override, just press and hold the button on the control knob. This will activate the trailer's brakes and brake lights without you having to apply the brakes on your tow vehicle, perfect for limiting trailer movement while you're cruising.


Curt Spectrum review

No-Drill Installation

The Curt Spectrum comes in 2 pieces: the main unit and the control knob. Because the only part that you need to be able to access is the control knob, the main unit can be mounted out of sight and out of the way. You don't have to worry about banging your knee on a bulky brake controller or interfering with your vehicle's lower airbags.


Curt Spectrum Dash Knob

The dash-mounted control knob can be installed in any convenient spot that's easy for you to see and reach. This can be a blank switch panel, an open spot on your center console, or wherever there's space on your dashboard. The knob sits flush against the dash, so you don't have to worry about finding enough clearance behind the dash. You can use either the included screw to mount the knob, or the adhesive pad for a drill-free installation.


Once you've decided where you want to put the control knob, you'll need to find a good place to install the main unit. Your only restriction is the 4' plug-in cable that has to be able to reach between the main unit and the control knob. Thanks to the 3-axis accelerometer, the main unit can be positioned at any angle or position. No matter how you install it, the unit will sense the direction of travel and its orientation.


If your vehicle already has a plug-in brake controller wiring harness, just connect the main control module to it. Otherwise, you will need to purchase a vehicle-specific wiring harness (sold separately) to plug into. If a harness is unavailable for your vehicle, hardwiring will be necessary.


If you don't already have a 7-way plug at the back of your vehicle, take a look at our exclusive 7- and 4-way brake control installation kit (ETBC7 - sold separately.


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.


What is Proportional Braking?

What is proportional Braking

Proportional braking means that your trailer brakes mimic your tow vehicle's brakes. If you slam on the brakes in your vehicle, your trailer brakes will activate with the same intensity; if you brake lightly, your trailer brakes lightly too. The trailer's braking is in proportion to your vehicle's braking. This saves wear and tear on the tires and the brakes on both your vehicle and trailer.


The Spectrum uses an internal 3-axis accelerometer to sense how your vehicle is braking so it can send the right amount of braking power to your trailer. It measures the inertia of your tow vehicle and activates the trailer's brakes to ensure that your trailer slows at the same rate. The result is uniform braking across your towing setup. No push-pull action - just smooth, proportional braking every time.



51170 Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller - Dash Mounted Knob - Proportional - 1 to 4 Axles

Item # C51170

Installation Details C51170 Installation instructions


California residents: click here


Customer Satisfaction Score:

Ratings & Reviews

4.6

384 reviews
You can stick the control knob to the dashboard, plug in the module, and your brake controller installation is done with no drilling and no hardwiring. The knob is large and easy to use, while the main unit is out of sight behind the dash.

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Martha was excellent to work with!



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A wonderful customer experience. Worked with professionals who guided me in selecting the correct product. Thank You!



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Brittany was professional and patient not to mention helpful.



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Excellent service



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Great shopping experience and quick del ivery.



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Only ised a short time and it worked as advertised.



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Small form factor works great



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Installation was easy, really liked the tape option to try out different placements before drilling for a permanent mount.



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Extremely easy to install. Works great!



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Install was a breeze because of the vehicle specific pigtail, etrailer's customer service is excellent and the information on installation helped me locate my plug



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They were very helpful on the phone to make sure i purchased the correct setup for my truck. I received it that week and installed it over the weekend. So far it is out performing the previous brake that was installed.



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As far as activating trailer brakes, it works. The dark mounted knob is too large and cheaply made. I wish I’d purchased something else. Had to pull a trailer, so couldn’t send it back.


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See what our Experts say about this CURT Trailer Brake Controller

  • Troubleshooting Curt Spectrum Brake Controller - No Lights On Control Knob
    The Curt Spectrum Brake Controller # C51170 should illuminate, even if the trailer is not connected. If you are getting no lights at all, this likely means the control unit is mis wired, or there is contamination in the trailer plug socket. We recommend double checking your wiring and making sure everything is done correctly. Also clean and dry your trailer plug. I have included Curts troubleshooting guide below.
    view full answer...
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  • Troubleshooting Installation of Curt Spectrum Brake Controller on 2011 Toyota Sienna
    The calibration process of the Curt Spectrum # C51170 should only happen after initial installation and should be run before you plug in the trailer to your tow vehicle. You should have seen the green lights on the knob light up in a clockwise motion 7 times, which indicates the calibration is occurring. If you've gone through this process and the error occurred, then the lights on the knob can tell you a bit about what's potentially going on. If you're seeing all red lights that would...
    view full answer...
  • How Does Brake Controller Unplug from Vehicle to Prevent Battery Draw
    Hey Joe, while I don't know what brake controller you have you should be able to unplug it from the back of the brake controller and that would accomplish what you are wanting. What brake controller do you have?
    view full answer...
  • What Lights On Curt Spectrum Are Supposed to Activate When Pressing Brake Pedal and No Trailer?
    I have added a link near the bottom of this page with the instructions for the Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller # C51170. When not connected to a trailer and pressing on the brakes you should see 2 blue lights flash on each side of the control knob. If you can tell me what you are seeing I can help you to determine what fault you may be having.
    view full answer...
  • What Colors Will Curt Spectrum Brake Controller Light Up with Brake Pedal Pressed
    The Curt Spectrum # C51170 will light up from green to red (with the trailer connected) depending on what power setting you chose. This will be the case whether you are parked or heading down the road. I confirmed this with my contact at Curt. I've also attached a photo showing what the display will look like as well as a review video you can check out.
    view full answer...
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  • Curt Brake Controller Plug for a 2020 Ford Explorer
    Yes, the Curt Custom Wiring Adapter for Trailer Brake Controllers part # C51322 will allow you to use a Curt brake controller like the Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller part # C51170 on a 2020 Ford Explorer (All Models). I checked with Curt just to confirm that the Curt Custom Wiring Adapter for Trailer Brake Controllers is indeed correct for a 2020 Ford Explorer so you can be confident this is the correct harness. The plug will be located under the driver dash, near the center console...
    view full answer...
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  • Single Red LED Lights Up When Brakes Pressed on Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller
    What you have is in fact the Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller # C51170. The single red light means it is working properly. More lights will light up as more brake power is asserted. This all depends on the settings of the brake controller. If you haven't changed any settings yet I recommend starting on page 11 of the manual to get it properly setup and adjusted. I have attached the link to the instructions below.
    view full answer...
  • Recommended Plug and Play Brake Controller Adapter for a 2022 Nissan Pathfinder
    No, I am sorry we do not because Tekonsha did not make one for your 2022 Nissan Pathfinder. The Prodigy P3 Brake Controller item # 90195 includes a universal harness you can use but you'll need to cut and splice wires. Curt does have a plug in play adapter but it only works with their brake controllers. It is the Curt Custom Wiring Adapter for Trailer Brake Controllers item # C51382. It will allow you to easily install the Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller item # C51170.
    view full answer...
  • Recommended Brake Controller for a 2018 Thor Ace Motorhome
    For your 2018 Thor Ace Motorhome, I recommend using the Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller part # C51170. The reason for this is because this unit is composed of two main parts, the control box and the output knob. The control box gets mounted out of site and then the output knob will get installed up on your dash for easy use and a very aesthetically pleasing look. The color output of the knob also helps with ease of use. Since your motorhome is on a Ford F-53 chassis, you can use...
    view full answer...
  • Comparing the Curt Spectrum Brake Controller to Redarc Tow-Pro Elite
    By all accounts the Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller # C51170 works well and is easy to use and install on most vehicles. It is a brand new item so not a lot of feedback has come in on it. I did learn a few things though after speaking with our install team about this controller. First, compared to the Redarc controller # RED44FR, the Curt Spectrum is easier to install. It can be surface mounted meaning that drilling is not necessarily required (depends on how you run the wiring)....
    view full answer...
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  • Troubleshooting a Curt Spectrum That Does not Go Through Calibration Sequence
    There could be a couple of reasons why your Curt Spectrum # C51170 is not calibrating, but it's likely due to your wiring. Even though you're using a plug in adapter # C51523, there still can be an issue with your vehicle wiring. I recommend physically checking your grounds, to make sure that it's to a clean secure surface. If your grounds are good, then check the white and black wires on the main module and make sure they're not flipped; If they are flip them and check again. I also...
    view full answer...
  • Troubleshooting Curt Spectrum Output and Sensitivity Adjustment
    It sounds like the sensitivity needs to be adjusted on your Curt Spectrum # C51170 since it is too aggressive leading to the jumpy stop. To adjust the output and sensitivity you want to follow the instructions. This means you only make adjustments while stopped, with the transmission in park or neutral, parking brake applied, foot off the brake pedal, and no manual control actuation. Adjust the sensitivity by pressing the rotary knob until the brake control is in the sensitivity control...
    view full answer...
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  • Does Curt TriFlex Plug Into 2007 Chevy TrailBlazer
    Even if your 2007 Chevy TrailBlazer has a factory 7-way there is not a plug underneath the dash for a trailer brake controller such as the Curt Spectrum # C51170; you will need to hardwire it with Wiring Adapter # C51515 though the wires will already be run if you have the factory 7-way (you should already have a factory 4-way). If you do not have the factory 7-way you will need to add the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controllers # ETBC7. I've added a link on installation...
    view full answer...
  • Is Curt Spectrum Compatible With Demco Stay-IN-Play Duo Braking System
    The Demco Stay-IN-Play Duo Braking System # DM86VR is a standalone system so no brake controller is required. The same is true for our other supplemental braking systems for flat towing. The Stay-IN-Play senses the rate of your RV's deceleration and triggers your towed car's brakes to slow down at the same rate just like a proportional brake controller. The Curt Spectrum # C51170 is only designed to work with trailer brakes.
    view full answer...
  • Troubleshooting Red Light On Curt Spectrum With Trailer Brakes Not Working On a 2014 Toyota Tacoma
    The first place I would start is with the Curt Custom Wiring Adapter # C51362 that you have connected between the Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller # C51170 and your 2014 Toyota Tacoma. The red light that you are getting when the brakes are pressed indicates that the red wire that connects to the brake switch is either connected to the ground side of the switch or there is a short to ground. I do believe that you have a ground wire issue. The Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter 3040-P...
    view full answer...
  • Where is The Connector For Installing a Trailer Brake Controller Located On a 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe?
    The location of the connector for connecting the Curt Wiring Adapter # C77BR on your 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe is under the dash to the left of the steering column. The 4-pin connector is cream colored and should be exposed. Be sure to look and feel around the wiring harness as the connector could be on top of the wiring where it is difficult to see. I recommend using the Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller # C51170 as it will allow you to locate the control knob where it is most convenient.
    view full answer...
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  • Is 3.6V on 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Trailer Plug Abnormal
    If it's just a 4-Way Flat connector like the T-On # 118786 then I would be surprised to see that much power being pulled to the back of your 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, but if you have a 7-Way like what we find with the Wiring Kit # ETBC7 then 3.6V on the 12V power pin isn't out of the ordinary and you'll be fine. Attached are photos showing the functions per pin on both a 4-Way and a 7-Way connector for you to reference.
    view full answer...
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  • Recommended Brake Controller for 2018 Nissan Titan With Factory 7-Way
    For your 2018 Nissan Titan I very strongly recommend going with the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite item # RED44FR over the Curt Spectrum item # C51170, which does use Wiring Adapter item # C51382 to connect to your 2018 Nissan Titan. The Redarc Tow-Pro item # RED44FR, which you can install in your '18 Titan with Wiring Adapter item # 3050-S, is by far the superior option because it is not only extremely effective and responsive but its manual control knob makes it simple to use; the Tow-Pro can...
    view full answer...
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  • What Should Display of Curt Spectrum Show When Not Connected to Trailer
    Hey Paul, with the Curt Spectrum part # C51170 you should have blue lights on the sides of the display flashing when a trailer isn't connected and then the same lights go solid when the brakes are applied.
    view full answer...
  • Curt Spectrum - What Do Two Flashing Blue Lights Mean?
    Hello Trent, thanks for getting in touch. The two blue lights on the Curt Spectrum # C51170 knob mean the trailer is disconnected. The lights should flash blue when the trailer is disconnected or they will be steady blue with the brakes are pressed with no trailer connected. The green lights when towing are also normal. The knob will show green/red depending on your braking power setting. I have included the list of the LED color patterns for the knob below. If there is an issue you are...
    view full answer...
  • Easy to Install Brake Controller Recommendation for 2009 Ford F-750
    I have a really easy to use Curt brake controller solution for your 2009 Ford F-750 but we don't have any plug and play solutions like you are wanting. Instead though we have the Curt Echo Mobile part # C51180 which basically just plugs into an active 7-way and once synced to a smart phone is ready to tow. It's also a proportional brake controller which means it senses how hard you are applying the vehicle brakes and applies a proportional amount of braking pressure.
    view full answer...
  • Comparing Redarc Liberty and Curt Spectrum Brake Controllers For a 2023 GMC Sierra 1500
    Personally, I have seen a lot fewer issues with the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty # RED24FR than with the Curt Spectrum # C51170. The Spectrum was released in early 2018. Currently Redarc only offers the one size control knob. To install the Redarc Liberty # RED24FR in your 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 you will need the Tekonsha Pigtail # 3064-P and the Redarc to Tekonsha Adapter # 331-TPH-017. This will support up to 2 braking axles or 4 brake assemblies. If you go with the Curt Spectrum # C51170...
    view full answer...
  • Parts Needed to Add 7-Way to 2012 Mercedes Sprinter For Brake Controller
    You are 100 percent correct with what you need to add a brake controller to your 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter with the 4-way and then 7-way: - T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # 118650 - Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller # ETBC7 You will first install the 4-flat, which will activate your trailer's lighting functions, and you'll then plug that into the 7-way that comes with the # ETBC7, which also gives you the wiring, circuit breakers,...
    view full answer...
  • Recommended Trailer Brake Controller For a 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe w/ Factory Tow Package
    I recommend the Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller # C51170 for your 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe. This will plug and play with your factory wiring using the Adapter # C77BR. The small control knob allows you to position it on your dash where it is most convenient. This is much better than having a large dash mounted control box which often gets in the way.
    view full answer...


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