Is the Curt Echo C51180 Approved by the Department of Transportation?

Updated 08/18/2021 | Published 08/09/2021

Products Featured in This Question

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

(1769)

$279.95

Manual Override Button for Curt Echo Brake Controller

(96)

$62.95

Tekonsha Prodigy RF Wireless Brake Controller - Trailer Mount w Remote - 1 to 3 Axles - Proportional

(324)

$360.53

Question:

Is this item DOT approved? I need to tow in PA and the rental place tells me I need an electric brake controller, before I buy this I would like to make sure Thank you for your help

asked by: John

Expert Reply:

I spoke to Curt and the Echo Brake Controller # C51180 is not DOT approved. Unfortunately, they also mentioned none of their brake controllers are DOT approved and could not give me a reason as to why this is.

With this in mind, I decided to contact Tekonsha as they have the Prodigy RF Wireless Controller # TK94FR. They also mentioned that none of their controllers are DOT approved. Again I asked why this is, and received pretty much the same response of not knowing. He did mention that it has not been needed before, however, so this could be why manufacturers do not get approval for them.

With all that being said, I do suggest going with the Curt Echo # C51180. This is a very easy to use and set up controller and is much easier to move between vehicles if needed. Also, once the initial set up on your smart phone is completed, you can use the Manual Override Button for Curt Echo # C83HR instead of the manual override button in the app. This is a great add-on that I always suggest with the Echo controller.

expert reply by: Lazer S