Troubleshooting ER Code on Draw Tite Activator Brake Controller

Updated 12/09/2025 | Published 01/31/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Activator IV Trailer Brake Controller - Up to 4 Axles - Time Delayed

(357)

$103.31

Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(2763)

$159.19

Question:

Was working fine.... When applying the brake pedal I get a reading on the controller after I put it in gear and step on the brake pedal I get a code that says ER. Hopefully you can help

asked by: Greg M

Expert Reply:

I wish I had better news, but the ER code means that there is an internal problem on the Draw Tite Activator part # 5504 and that it needs to be replaced.

For a new brake controller I would recommend the Prodigy P2 Brake Controller part # 90885. This is our best selling brake controller because of how well it works and how easy it is to setup. This is a proportional brake controller that senses the amount of braking the tow vehicle is applying and applies a proportionate amount to the trailer brakes.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Richard M.

11/1/2021

So my draw tite controller is approximately 18 months old and I have to replace it? Can't be repaired? Talk about a great product!!! What a sorry company to make trash and sell it with a clear Conscience.

Richard M.

11/1/2021

Les D.

11/2/2021

As described in the article you commented about, yes, and ER code means it has stopped working and are not serviceable. For a new brake controller Prodigy P2 Brake Controller part # 90885 is a good choice. It works well and is easy it is to setup. This is a proportional brake controller that senses the amount of braking the tow vehicle is applying and applies a proportionate amount to the trailer brakes. I am sorry that I don't have better news for you.

Mike C.

9/7/2025

I have the same controller and only after about a week I started getting the E.r message. I run my battery flat quit often when camping and I think that's what did it. I reset the settings and it is working fine now. It seems to go into a protect mode at 0 gain and the error message.

Jameson C.

9/8/2025

@MikeC Makes sense! Yeah they can get a bit glitchy if the voltage drops on the power supply for the controller.

Steve

12/9/2025

I had a error code on my unit all the time even without applying the brakes. I got the error code to turn off by using the slide switch and releasing it. Does that mean that I have to change the unit?

Jameson C.

12/9/2025

@Steve possibly but I would see if it still works right and if the problems comes back. Sometimes you can get lucky and a simple fix like what you did just does the trick. Sometimes you have to unplug the controller and then plug it back in and that works. If neither of those works it would be time to replace the controller.