Does a Trailer Need a Battery for the Brakes to Work

Published 08/08/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Venturer NEXT Trailer Brake Controller - Up to 3 Axles - Time Delayed

(126)

$75.96

Curt Trailer Breakaway Kit with Trickle Charger, LED Tester, and 5 Ah Lead Acid Battery - Top Load

(234)

$84.88

Question:

I read confusing information out there. Here I read that the electric trailer brake works with power from the tow vehicle electrical system. Somewhere lese I heard that you have to have a battery on the trailer too. So do you need a battery on the trailer for the electric brakes to work or not?

asked by: Victor

Expert Reply:

No, you do not need to have an auxiliary battery on the trailer in order for the brakes to work. The brakes are powered by a brake controller like part # C74VV which draws power from the tow vehicle's battery, not the trailer's battery. You will however need a battery on the trailer to activate the breakaway which is required by law in most states however, this battery is very small and is included with most kits like the Curt Push-To-Test Trailer Breakaway Kit part # C52044.

If you need any other parts to set either your vehicle or trailer up for towing, please let me know and I would be happy to help.

expert reply by: Conner L