Curt Echo Brake Controller Only Works With Manual Override

Updated 02/15/2022 | Published 02/13/2022

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

7-Way Round RV Style Trailer Connector - Trailer Side

(373)

$13.57

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

(2636)

$43.11

Question:

2017 Grand Cherokee SRT. Mopar class IV hitch installed and trailer tow package enabled in ECU. Echo brake controller will connect just fine to app. App recognizes controller as being connected. All turn signal, brake light and running light functions work correctly. Manual brake control works and trailer brakes will engage. Maximum brake output works correctly and brakes will respond accordingly to output power desired. The Curt Echo Bluetooth controller will not engage the brakes automatically. I have to manually cycle the brake button when stopping to be able to use trailer brakes to assist vehicle in stopping.

asked by: AJ

Helpful Expert Reply:

When a brake controller, including the Curt Echo # C51180, works only with the manual override but not otherwise, the issue is almost always the connector or wiring on the vehicle or trailer. So first, check the 7-way on your 2017 Grand Cherokee and see if there is an issue with possible damage on the wires, and check to see if there is any corrosion on the pins or other dirt or anything built up. If so, clean it, or replace with 7- and 4-Pole Trailer Connector Socket # HM40975.

If that's fine, move onto the trailer wiring connector and inspect the wiring, specifically to make sure you have a good ground. Check the trailer 7-way as well to see if there is damage or corrosion, and either clean it or replace with # A7WCB.

Should all that be fine, the only other issue I can think of is that the Echo's accelerometer may have become faulty and the controller - which does have a lifetime warranty - would need to be replaced.

expert reply by: Kyle S