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Towing? There's an app for that. This brake controller connects to your phone with Bluetooth so all your settings are right in your hand. The unit plugs into your 7-way for a one-step installation with no wiring.
Features:
Specs:
Pair with other OneControl systems for convenient control of your trailer in one app!
Quick Tip: The Bluetooth PIN for initially pairing to your smart device is located in the quick reference guide!
Note: If Bluetooth connection is lost, the brake controller will continue to function safely, using the most recently programmed settings. This brake controller is not compatible, but will not interfere, with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
The Curt Echo is unique for its plug-and-play installation. With no wiring or permanent installation, setting up the Echo is a breeze.
The main unit plugs into the 7-way at the rear of your vehicle and then the 7-way trailer connector plugs into it. Use the included strap, found inside the cap, to secure the Echo in place. It will help ensure a constant connection between vehicle and trailer.
That done, download the OneControl app on your Apple or Android smartphone and wirelessly pair the unit to your phone via Bluetooth, following the in-app instructions. It should take about 5 seconds for them to pair. Once paired, the LED light on the unit will turn a solid blue. Plug in your trailer's 7-way and let the whole system calibrate for another 5 seconds. When the LED turns green, configure your desired trailer brake settings in the app and save it as a profile. Then you're ready to tow!
Note: If you don't already have a 7-way plug at the back of your vehicle, check out our exclusive 7-way upgrade kit for brake controller installation (ETBC7L - sold separately).
Besides the crazy-easy installation, the Echo is unique for giving you control of your towing through your smartphone. You can set the maximum braking output, adjust the braking sensitivity, apply the manual override - all from the OneControl app.
Completely wireless, the Echo connects to the app via Bluetooth. You can save multiple towing profiles in the app, a big plus if you have a fleet and want to be able to just select a pre-set configuration and get towing. And don't worry; after you've downloaded the app, you don't need to have data on to use the app with the brake controller. You'll be able to receive calls and texts and access your other apps.
OneControl App
Simple, intuitive, and user-friendly, the OneControl App makes it wicked easy to manage your settings and control your trailer.
1. Manual Override
This big orange button in the middle of the app is your manual override. Press and hold the button, and the brake controller will smoothly apply the trailer brakes without applying your vehicle's brakes. This is perfect for stopping sway or controlling your trailer's momentum in an emergency.
Quick tip: Put manual override right at your fingertips by adding this button (C83HR - sold separately) to your dash. The app must be running for the button to work, but it can be in the background while you use other apps on your phone. The button has an adhesive back and runs on a replaceable battery.
2. Brake Output Indicator
The outer ring gives you a visual indicator of how much power is being applied to the trailer brakes. This is determined by your max output setting.
3. Max 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.
To set your maximum braking output, tap this button and increase or decrease using the + and - buttons. You want to set the braking output as high as you can without locking up the brakes.
4. Sensitivity Level
This controls the aggressiveness of your trailer's braking, meaning how quickly the brakes reach the max 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.
Just like max output, if you need to change your sensitivity level, use the + and - buttons. 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.
5. Vehicle Hazard Lights
If you turn on your vehicle's hazard lights, there's a chance the trailer brakes will pulse on and off as the lights flash. Turn this setting on any time you activate your hazard lights to prevent this problem.
Save Multiple Trailer Profiles
Get on the road faster by saving your settings. With the app, you can add and store multiple profiles for both trailers and vehicles so that your preferred settings will be ready to go as soon as you hook up. This is perfect if you own a fleet and don't want to have to reset the controller every time you swap out trucks, trailers, or drivers. You'll have the ideal settings saved and waiting for you. To switch between profiles, just swipe left or right.
If you like the idea of monitoring your trailer from your phone, the other OneControl systems could be a great fit for you.
The Curt True Course (C94VV - sold separately) is an advanced Bluetooth sway control system that automatically triggers the trailer brakes (independent of the vehicle's brakes and the brake controller) when it detects dangerous trailer movement. The Curt Tire Linc (C54VV - sold separately) Bluetooth TPMS monitors the temperature and pressure of your trailer tires. All of these systems use the OneControl app so you can manage all of them in the same place on your phone.
The LED indicator light on the top of the plug-in module will show you when the brake controller is connected. You can also check the LED for simple diagnostics when you need to troubleshoot.
Because the Echo mounts outside the vehicle, it's designed for maximum weather resistance. The unit is filled with an epoxy resin that seals off the internal components from moisture and the elements. The Echo also has a soft locking tab for connecting to your 7-way plug that reduces vibration and helps ensure a constant connection.
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 hard; 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 Echo 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.
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A great controller. It was simple to setup and use. I love the ability to use it in different vehicles ---- and no wiring hassle. Plug and play, make a couple adjustments and it worked like promised. I have showed it to several friends, who were totally amazed, had no idea there was a product like it out there. Towing a 18ft enclosed trailer with a Tahoe presently.
Works amazingly well after the brief learning curve. You just can’t over think the process and do it. What a difference not having to install a brake controller on a new vehicle. I would buy it again.
Charles
4/20/2025
Still working nicely after cleaning all contact parts for best connection. Hope to use it for many seasons.
Customer service response is prompt. Order arrived quickly. I’ve attached, synced, and tested the controller on my 2020 Tacoma, pulling my 16ft travel trailer. Lights and app indicate it is working. I’m still testing adjustments, as I’ve never used a brake controller. I saw some reviews that complained about brake pulsing at low speeds. I have NOT experienced this problem. Manual actuation works well at low speed. Information says app must run in the foreground. I’m trying to determine what that means. Can I open the app and switch to another app, or does the app need to stay on constant display?
Brooke M.
2/26/2024
Yes! The app should be the one on constant display on your phone screen; the one you are viewing. It looks like the reason is if its running in the background, if you have a different app on display while towing, it can cause delays in breaking times. Best to be safe and just run the OneControl Auto app when towing.
Vickie
2/15/2025
Happy after using controller for a year. Tends to lose Bluetooth connection a lot, but the controller continues to work on previous settings, so that’s not a problem. After a few tweaks, I didn’t need to change anything. Each time I connect it for a trip, it defaults to my last setting.
Kate F.
2/16/2025
Curt echo wireless brake controller could not be setup to work properly, on the lowest settings no brakes at all , next step up brakes would grab and lock up.
Trailer brakes working perfectly with a factory in dash brake controller. Would like to return.
Gwendolyn Y.
3/10/2025
Hey Norman. Most of the time when you are using an aftermarket controller when your truck has a factory controller, they start to argue with one another in away. You will need to take your truck to your Dealer and have them reprogram the truck to disconnect the factory brake controller.
Gwendolyn Y.
3/10/2025
I bought a 2021 Tahoe High Country that was built during Covid. Little did I know that it was missing critical chips and parts that would normally be standard equipment. Consequently I found that the trailer wiring that is normally installed under the dash was missing! Luckily, the 7 wire plug receiver had the minimum 4 wires connected that makes this product work. It was simple to install and program. A lifesaver for me, as I pull a tandem trailer and need the braking. ( P.S. don’t buy a Covid Era vehicle!)
Gwendolyn Y.
3/3/2025
Hey David. I'm glad that the install was still easy and simple! What are you hauling?
I haven't used the product for towing yet. I have a trip scheduled soon. I'll update my review after using it, but I will comment on the setup process.
It is very easy to install, however, the company should emphasize not to look for the Bluetooth connection in your phone settings. It will show up in the App and ask for the PIN number to pair the product. The other thing the company should do is replace the current rubber strap with a Velcro strap. I connected the brake controller and wrapped the rubber strap around the brake controller as shown and found the strap did not hold the unit tight enough. As noted in other reviews, I replaced the rubber strap with a Velcro strap and it is much more secure.
This was my second Echo brake controller. The first worked almost flawlessly for three years but had to be replaced after it became unattached from the trailer and dragged on the ground. This was still worked well but had more trouble with getting the bluetooth synced. Not sure why; maybe a phone update. As others have mentioned, the rubber strap doesn't secure the device to your car very well. I used two pities to tighten it in and that did the job.
The wireless brake controller worked perfecty! that is the best thing when you have trucks that dont have the brake controller installed on them and it can be used on multiple trucks or braked trailers.
Used a couple of times and worked well. Then I bought a truck with trailer brake controls so it’s collecting dust now. Just haven’t found anybody to seek it to yet.
Well I got this unit for my 40' motorcoach. Unfortunately it doesn't stay connected on my phone through the app inside the coach. But once you open the app and correctly set the app with your settings for the trailer or whatever you're towing it does a great job. So that's why it only got 4 stars. At least I didn't have to wire my whole coach, what a pain that would've been.
Randal
1/9/2025
So far the unit is performing good. Just be sure each time you hook up open the app so it is active on your phone. Im so thankful I didnt have to run all the wires for a internal brake control.
I like this. Once it is set up you don't need to worry about it.
Lessons learned:
* The strap is under the cap, I thought mine was missing, I had to call and they told me where to look.
* There are a couple of similarly named apps, if you go looking for it in the app store, you might find the wrong one.
* Once you have the right app, it fairly easy to set up.
* Once set you may not need to use the app again.
Brooke M.
4/7/2025
I really appreciate your review and calling out where to look for the strap and calling attention to be careful as to which app is downloaded. I think you will be saving lots of time for anyone who comes across this review. Thank you, James!
The controller works great. Installed brakes on a prior non-braked trailer. Also, the 51180 docs say it is compatible with all three of my vehicles. Can't beat one controller for three vehicles, and the controller can be set up to memorize various vehicle/trailer options. Really plug and play.
This controller was recommended to me by my Aluma Trailer supplier. It works well. Very happy I followed his advice. Since I use it with the save truck and towed vehicle, I don't even need to worry about my phone battery going down.
Rodney W.
1/3/2025
The brake controller has worked well for me on the several lengthy trips I have taken this past year. I do not regret buying it in the least.
Works well and have had no issues with function. You do need to keep the app up and open to use. Adjusting was easy and initial setup was literally plug and go in 5 minutes. No issues disconnecting while driving as I read in other reviews. I like that it's one controller I can use for multiple vehicle and trailer combinations.
1 year of using this controller and still very happy with it. No problems with the control app on my android phone and it works great. Pulled our camper with it 6 or 7 times and never had issues getting it synced with the app and trailer brakes have activated properly for every stop.
I'm having trouble with it on my small trailer locking up the brakes
Jenny N.
2/9/2024
Thank you for reaching out. Have you been able to adjust the output and sensitivity on the controller? Lowering the settings can prevent the brakes from locking up.
Barry
2/8/2025
Its ok, it seems sensitive on getting settings correct, they are touchy
Jon G.
2/8/2025
Easy to install. No drilling dash or ru nning
wires.
Tommyg
4/4/2025
Great! Use it when I tow our trailers.
For use on multiple vehicles that do not have built in brake controllers. Or for just one vehicle without a brake controller, this device is super. I have been buying vehicles over the years that come with brake controllers integrated in them. But I just purchased a 2025 Tahoe and 2025 Wrangler. Both had receiver hitches and 7 pin plugs. The problem was neither vehicles had brake controllers. Problem solved. Curt is a brand you can trust. I have owned several of their other products so I know they have a great reputation.
This works very well with my Sienna and small travel trailer. Easy to setup app and the in app emergency button and monitor work well. I am very satisfied!
I really like the Echo Wireless Brake Controller! It's easy to program and install. It also has programming for multiple vehicles so I can program it for each vehicle I use!.
I'm new to pulling a trailer and using the Echo controller made this part of all the new things I'm learning easy peasy!!
Bluetooth connectivity drops a lot while driving. Annoying.
Victoria H.
4/3/2025
I definitely understand your annoyance with it Jason. Please be assured if you lose connection, the trailer brakes will still work, but you won’t be able to use the manual override until the Bluetooth reconnects. The Bluetooth connection on the Curt Echo Wireless part # C51180 may drop for a few reasons. Your phone might have a weak or intermittent signal, or the 7-way plug or trailer plug might not be fully connected to the Echo. I would double check your Echo's plug-in connection, as well as make sure there aren't any other Wi-Fi or Bluetooth devices could also cause interference issues. Let us know if this helps.
Great product. So much easier then wiring in a control box.Just plug in,set phone,works great. Definitlya good product.
Connected quickly & didn't drop once on our first 3 hour trip! I was able to adjust the braking percentage & sensitivity on the fly until I dialed it in perfectly. Couldn't be happier! (2019 Chevy Silverado connected to a 2024 Nucamp Tab 320S)
I think the most important thing for someone who is installing the 7 way plug is that the blue wire is not required. Please stress this fact. I spent several days trying to get a definitive answer on this issue.
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Phillip
5/3/2025
After using it for a year, I still think it is the greatest. I have showed it to a number of others - totally amazed at how simple but versatile it is. Only disappointment is not being able to use it more.