Plug and Play Brake Controller Options for 2016 Chevy Silverado

Published 12/06/2019

Products Featured in This Question

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

(171)

$27.00

Universal Mounting Panel for Redarc Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controller Control Knob

(370)

$13.00

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

(1782)

$279.95

7- and 4-Pole Trailer Connector Socket w/ Mounting Bracket - Vehicle End

(2644)

$44.19

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

(1683)

$290.00

Question:

My son has a 2016 chevy silverado. He is looking for a brake controller but he wants one that looks like original chev equipment. However he does not have a tow package in his truck. I am not sure there is any wiring to just plug and play. Can you help me?

asked by: Darin

Expert Reply:

We don't offer an alternative that would mount in the dash super-neatly like the factory brake controller would, but we do indeed have options that don't involve a box that's strapped to the underside of the dashboard.

The Curt Echo, part # C51180 is without a doubt the easiest to install and least visually intrusive brake controller, hands down. If your son's truck doesn't have an existing 7-way trailer connector, one can be installed using part # HM40975. The controller would use a iOS or Android smart phone as the in-cab controller, and would wirelessly connect. Plug and play? You betcha!

Another alternative would be the Redarc # RED44FR Tow Pro Elite. The control box can be mounted anywhere under the dash so it's out of sight and nobody will bang their knees on it. The control box uses the # 331-TPH-010 wiring harness that plugs into the connector located in the black junction box behind the emergency brake pedal as shown in the video I've linked. The control knob for the controller would install in the dash, perhaps using an un-needed switch knockout or in the center console if there is one (the universal mounting panel, # 331-TPSI-001 makes for a clean looking installation if a knockout isn't available). I've linked you to a video showing how the Tow Pro Elite works.