Can Factory Brake Controller Be Installed on 2018 Chevy Silverado

Updated 07/01/2019 | Published 06/29/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Brake Controller - Dash Knob - Off-Road Mode - Up to 3 Axles - Proportional

(1701)

$290.00

Redarc Plug-and-Play Wiring Harness for Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controllers

(172)

$27.00

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

(1832)

$289.95

Question:

Why cant the trailer brake controller be added if its not added at the build of the truck. If I can possess the module and the dash component why cant it be installed no one can tell me a straight answer can you guys?? Thank you

asked by: John

Expert Reply:

Based on my research the issue with installing a factory brake controller on your Silverado (post-factory) has to do with the factory harness and programming on the truck. Chevy's official stance is that it cannot be added after the fact. You might be able to obtain the correct components (controller, module, etc) and physically plug everything in but because of the truck's programming/computer it likely still won't work correctly without expensive modifications to the truck's system.

The best option I can offer for your Silverado is the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite # RED44FR, which provides a sleek OEM type appearance with its small control knob that can mount in the dash. This is a really nice proportional controller that will automatically send power back to the trailer brakes in proportion to the truck's deceleration. If your Silverado has the tow package you just need the Plug-In Harness # 331-TPH-010 to allow for a simple plug-and-play install.

I have attached a customer submitted image of the controller installed on the dash of his 2018 Silverado that you can check out as well.

If you'd rather not have anything mounted in the cab at all we also have the Curt Echo # C51180 that simply plugs into the 7-Way connector at the back of the truck and pairs to your smart phone via Bluetooth. Your phone is then what is used to adjust any settings or activate the manual override so nothing extra needs to be added to the truck.

I have attached a short video demonstration that you can check out as well.