Will the Curt Echo Work on a 2016 Audi Q5 with the 7 Way Plug Angled Down Slightly

Updated 03/21/2021 | Published 03/18/2021

Products Featured in This Question

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

(1887)

$289.95

Curt TriFlex NEXT Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(1150)

$141.95

Curt Custom Wiring Adapter for Trailer Brake Controllers - Dual Plug In

(17)

$30.22

Question:

I am looking for a brake controller for my 2016 Audi Q5. I have been told about the Curt Echo but I have reservations about it. Does it work with my car hitch outlet angled down and is it worth the money?

asked by: Jason S

Expert Reply:

To start, the Curt Echo # C51180 will work when the 7 way plug in bracket is angled down; this doesn't affect the functionality of the controller and you'll still get responsive braking for your trailer.

Part of the appeal of using a wireless controller like the Curt Echo # C51180 is that there isn't any wiring that needs to be done inside the vehicle and it's a simple plug and play installation. The issue with needing a brake controller for vehicles that aren't typically setup for towing a trailer with brakes, like the 2016 Audi Q5, is that if you don't use a wireless controller like the Curt Echo # C51180 you'll be forced to splice into the wiring on your vehicle.

With that said, it does look like the 2016 Audi Q5 has a plug and play harness available for most brake controllers if your vehicle came with the factory tow package included. If you have the factory towing package and wanted to go with a more traditional controller I recommend going with the Curt TriFlex Trailer Brake Controller # C24VV and plug and play adapter # C51522. The TriFlex gives your proportional braking in the same manner that the Echo will, but you will have a brake controller mounted in the cab of the vehicle on the dash board.

I still prefer the Curt Echo # C51180 in this situation since it's generally easier to install and you won't have to worry about knocking your knees on a brake controller mounted on the lower dash board. I've linked some review videos of these parts for you to check out.