Recommended Wireless Trailer Brake Controller For 2017 BMW X5 Xdrive

Updated 12/29/2020 | Published 12/27/2020

Question:

Considering this product for a 2017 BMW X5 Xdrive: Curt Echo Wireless Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 2 Axles - Proportional Item # C51180 Also: Hayes Sway Master Electronic Sway Control System - 1 to 4 Axles Item # HA81775 Now, leaning to the Hayes as that would serve as sway and brake controller at same time. Is that correct? Any suggestions. Note: BMW does not recommend installing any type of weight distribution or sway bars on their vehicles!

asked by: Samson

Expert Reply:

I have another option, but the Hayes Sway Master HA81775 will not work as a trailer brake controller.

The Hayes HA81775 is designed to apply brakes based on the amount of sway the gyroscope detects, and will not apply the trailer brakes based on the brakes being applied to your 2017 BMW X5 Xdrive.

I recommend using the Curt Echo # C51180 you were considering, as it will apply the trailer brakes on your trailer with the same intensity that you apply the brakes to your vehicle. The Curt # C51180 will be able to be controlled by your smart phone, and will not require you to drill any holes to mount a trailer brake controller inside of your vehicle.

If you are experiencing sway when towing your trailer you can use the Hayes # HA81775 with the Curt Echo # C51180 by plugging the Curt Echo into the 7-way connector on your vehicle, and plug the Hayes connector into the Curt Echo, but it will not replace a trailer brake controller.

I included videos for both of the products mentioned for you to take a look at.