Wireless Brake Controller Compatibility with 2014 Audi Q5

Published 01/29/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller - 7-Way Plug-in w/ Bluetooth App - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional

(1769)

$279.95

7-Way Trailer Adapter for Towing Trailers with LED Lights

(167)

$34.73

Question:

Hello etrailer.com, while getting my 2014 Audi Q5 ready to tow our small tear trailer, I was thrilled to see a wireless brake controller being offered on the market, and almost purchased the Prodigy RF without doing any reading about it. However, as I read through customer comments and questions on your message board, I saw a lot of issues getting this unit to pair with the controller when installing for use on European vehicles Audi, VW, Mercedes. So, my question is: will this unit work for my Q5? If so, are there special instructions I should follow when installing several posts noted that one should omit certain steps in the pairing process? Will I need to purchase an additional adapter Curt part# C57003 as one post suggests? I’d like to better understand what I’m trying to get myself into before I hit the “checkout” button. Thanks in advance for your guidance.

asked by: Dale A

Expert Reply:

The now-discontinued Prodigy RF you asked about can have serious issues pairing with European vehicles and while this used to be the only option for a wireless brake controller, that isn't the case anymore and I recommend an alternative that isn't going to have the amount of potential headaches.

So long as your 2014 Audi Q5 has the factory tow package the Curt Echo # C51180 will simply plug into the 7-way on the back of your Audi. There is no other wiring needed and the only other thing you would need in order to use it is a smartphone. Once you download the Echo's app you will use that to set up the brake controller and you'll be set!

I have added links to a couple of video reviews as well as the installation instructions for this controller that I highly recommend checking out.

expert reply by: Kyle S