Installing a Brake Controller on a 2011 GMC Sierra and Why GM Stopped Using a Plug for Controllers

Updated 04/29/2016 | Published 04/27/2016

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)

$159.00

Question:

Why did GM stop having the plug and play adapters for trailer brake controls from 2008 - 2013 ?

asked by: Doug

Expert Reply:

GM actually started to use a tow package wire bundle instead of a plug for a brake controller in the 2007 New Body Style Sierras and Silverados. Why they did it is a mystery but they went back to it in the current generation of trucks probably due to demand and the fact that Ford and Ram have always offered a plug (during the time period that GM did not).

But it is still pretty easy to install a brake controller by hardwiring it in using the truck's tow package wiring located under the dash, to the left of the steering column, held together with a white tag. Pull this wire bundle out and make the following connections to a brake controller:

Tow package red to controller black for 12 volt power
Tow package dark blue to controller blue for output to the trailer brakes
Tow package light blue or orange to controller red for input from the brake switch
Tow package white to controller white for ground

There may also be some connections that will need to be made under the hood to make everything fully functional. the help article I have linked covers this and more.

If you need a new brake controller I recommend the P2, # 90885, because it's easy to set up and use and it is reliable. I have linked a video that should also help.