Do I need to Disconnect Factory Brake Controller to Use Curt Echo

Updated 04/02/2019 | Published 03/31/2019

Question:

I have a 2019 toyota tundra with the integrated Brake control. I would like to use a curt echo. Do I have to disable the integrated Brake control . Will it damge the curt echo if it is left connected. I assume the voltage from the IBC does not pass through the echo? Thanks

asked by: Dave

Expert Reply:

The Curt Echo Mobile Trailer Brake Controller part # C51180 works with any factory integrated brake controller according to Curt. The Curt Echo does override the integrated brake controller and they do not interfere with one another so there is no need to disconnect the factory brake controller.

Since the Echo is powered from the 12V wire from the Tundra's 7-way to the battery, it does not need any power from the blue brake wire that runs from the 7-way to the factory brake controller to function. Since it does not use the power from the blue wire, the power does not affect the Echo because it does not accept it. It can function with only the 12v because it uses an inertia-based sensor that senses with the towed vehicle is stopping, it then sends a signal back to the trailer brakes to stop.

expert reply by: Heather A