Can I Bypass the Factory Brake Controller On a 2008 Chevy Silverado To Get Rid Of the Error Message
Updated 05/22/2019 | Published 05/20/2019 >
Question:
I have a 2008 silverado Z71 with factory trailer equipment. Awhile back I broke the clip on my factory trailer brake controller, I used super glue until a replacement came. After replacing the controller, I have been getting service trailer brake system error messages. I have no codes, checked the fuses, and replaced the relay above the spare tire. as well as the actual controller. Im thinking the super glue might be causing a short if it got into the plug? I got a 7 Way Blade Trailer Connector Tester with Red LEDs and everything workedbrakes, turn signals, hazards, etc... Would it be possible to bypass it with an aftermarket? Im really just wanting the error message gone, I dont pull trailers.
asked by: Cody K
Expert Reply:
I think you are asking if you can bypass the factory brake controller with an aftermarket brake controller. If that is the case then yes you can, in order to do this you will need to follow the instructions in the attached help article. For a new brake controller, I then recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller part # 90885 because of its reliability.
That said, it's hard to tell if this will fix the error message you are having as I don't really know what caused this when you replacement the factory brake controller. It would be best for you to take the truck into a service center for repair but if you want to save some money then yes, an aftermarket brake controller which bypasses the factory brake controller would be your best option to get rid of the error message.
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: B&W Heavy-Duty Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class V - 2"
- Shop: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class IV - 2"
- Shop: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class V XD - 2"
- Shop: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class IV - 2"
- Shop: Gooseneck Hitch
- Shop: B&W Turnoverball Underbed Gooseneck Trailer Hitch w/ Custom Installation Kit - 30,000 lbs
- Shop: B&W Turnoverball Underbed Gooseneck Trailer Hitch w/ Custom Installation Kit - 30,000 lbs
- Article: Aftermarket Brake Control Wiring for 07-13 GM Full-Size Truck with Factory-Integrated Brake Control
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Q&A: Is there a King Pin Adapter for OEM Prep Package for My Inverted 5th Wheel Set-up?
- Q&A: Trailer Brakes Not Working On A 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 3500
- Q&A: Bypassing the Factory Brake Controller on a 2016 Chevy Silverado 3500
- Q&A: Bypassing Factory Brake Controller and Installing Aftermarket Model on 2018 GMC Sierra 3500
- Q&A: Troubleshooting the Electric Trailer Brake Controller on 2011 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
- Q&A: Bypassing the Factory Brake Controller on a 2015 Chevy Silverado 1500
- Q&A: Disabling the GM Factory Installed Integrated Trailer Brake Control (ITBC) on 2018 Silverado 2500 HD
- Video: Firestone Ride-Rite Air Bags with Easy Mount Compressor Feature Breakdown
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Shop: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Video: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness Review C56040
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Search Results: trailer jack

