Electric Trailer Brake Controller Recommendation for a 2008 Chevy Suburban

Updated 02/25/2011 | Published 02/24/2011

Products Featured in This Question

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

(2763)

$159.19

Replacement Custom Multi-Tow 7-Way and 4-Way Trailer Connectors

(411)

$44.25

Question:

Which brake controller is best for a 2008 Chevy Suburban? The Prodigy or P2? Do we need a wiring harness adapter?

asked by: Steve

Expert Reply:

Brake controllers are not vehicle specific so you could go with either the Prodigy or the P2. But I recommend going with the Tekonsha Prodigy P2, # 90885, because it is the newest model in the popular Prodigy series. It has some advantages over its predecessor including the ability to be mounted in a 360 degree vertical range. The P2 also offers better protection with reverse battery protection for vehicle and trailer breakaway systems, it works with electric-over-hydraulic trailer brake systems, and has a blue LED digital display.

If your 2008 Chevy Suburban has a factory installed 7-Way trailer connector, all you will need is the brake controller. The vehicle has the tow package wiring under the dash, to the left and above the brake pedal, in a harness held together with a white tag. The tag should have the functions of the wires on it.

The white wire on the brake controller is ground, black is 12 volt power, red is for the stop light switch, and blue is brake output. I have included a link to an FAQ article that should help with installation. If you do not have a factory 7-Way, the wiring will still be there under the dash, but you will also need to add Replacement Multi-Tow 7-Way and 4-Way Trailer Connectors, # 30955. I have included a link to a video showing this part being installed.

expert reply by: Michael H