Wireless Brake Controller - Curt Echo vs Tekonsha Prodigy RF
Question:
I am planning to purchase a wireless brake controller for my 2016 Toyota Highlander and Aliner popup camper [GVWR ~3,000]. I have discussed controller options with different dealers and get different opinions as to using the Curt C51180 or the Tekonsha Prodigy RF wireless controller. I am not sure if the Tekonsha is still available. I don’t want to cut into existing wires nor permanently mount the controller on the dash as I will be towing only occasionally. Related, I installed the flat 4-pin but will also need a conversion from flat 4 to round 7 so I can utilize the electric brakes Item # ETBC7L? I’d appreciate your advice on how to best proceed.
asked by: John G
Expert Reply:
The best option for wireless brake controllers is the Curt Echo # C51180. It is the easiest to plug in and go when you need to use a brake controller with your trailer. Once you have a 7-way connector installed in your vehicle, all you need is to connect the Echo to your vehicle and your trailer connector to the Echo and you are good to go. All the settings can be adjusted from the Echo Smart Control App, so there is no need to add any additional mounts or knobs inside the cab of your vehicle.
The Tekonsha Prodigy RF works similarly, but there are a couple downsides to it that make the Curt Echo a better option. First is that the Prodigy RF requires installation directly on the trailer. This means that if you ever have another trailer that you want to use with your brake controller, you will need to uninstall it from your existing trailer first or purchase another unit. The other downside is that the Prodigy cannot distinguish between hazard lights and brake lights, so if you find yourself needing to use your hazards while towing your trailer, your trailer brakes will pulse with the lights. The Echo has a setting specifically for this problem that prevents trailer brake pulsing while using hazard lights.
Since you only have a 4-way flat connector, you are correct that you need the 7-Way Upgrade Kit # ETBC7L to add a 7-way connector to your vehicle You do have to do a bit of wiring, but if you are comfortable splicing wires, it's really not too difficult of an install. Check out the videos linked below for installation details.
Products Referenced in This Question
Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger - Dual Input - DC to DC - 12V/24V - 25 Amp
- Battery Charger
- Battery Charger
- RV/Camper
- Trailer
- 75 Ah
- 200 Ah
- Charges/Maintains
- DC to DC
- 12V
- Solar Panels to Auxiliary Battery
- Vehicle Battery to Auxiliary Battery
- Redarc
more information >
7-Way RV Upgrade Kit for Trailer Brake Controller Installation - 12 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller - 7-Way Plug-in w/ Bluetooth App - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Hidden
- Up to 2 Axles
- Smartphone Display
- CURT
more information >
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on Trailer Brake Controller
John G.
9/21/2020
I am planning to purchase a wireless brake controller for my 2016 Toyota Highlander and Aliner popup camper [GVWR ~3,000]. I have discussed controller options with different dealers and get different opinions as to using the Curt C51180 or the Tekonsha Prodigy RF wireless controller. I am not sure if the Tekonsha is still available. I don’t want to cut into existing wires nor permanently mount the controller on the dash as I will be towing only occasionally. Related, I installed the flat 4-pin but will also need a conversion from flat 4 to round 7 so I can utilize the electric brakes Item # ETBC7L? I’d appreciate your advice on how to best proceed.