Can You Bypass Factory ITBC on 2015 Chevy Silverado 2500

Updated 04/18/2023 | Published 04/17/2023

Question:

I am at a loss on my pickup, a 2015 Silverado 2500. When pulling my 32foot Travel Trailer 8000#, after about an hour of driving my truck throws several codes, including wheel speed sensors code C0045, C0050 and Invalid data received from ABS Control Module U0415. This issue progresses and after about an hour of driving, the codes eventually render the electric trailer brake inoperable. All other trailer lights work. I can clear codes and regain functionality, but the issue progresses after about 90min of driving to the point I can no longer clear the codes and regain brakes. I have had the truck in the shop and Ive rewired the harness on trailer, checked brake assemblies at each wheel, cleaned every ground and every wire connection and I cannot find the issue on the trailer. If I use the integrated trailer brake bypass method https://www.etrailer.com/question-523521.html and get a Tekonsha P3 controller, will the controller retain the ability to stop the trailer, regardless of the codes the truck throws? I fear I will bypass ITBC on truck and one of the other pins will be the source of the problems and the truck will still shut down the brakes somehow, or worse, well stumble upon a larger problem with the ABS system on the truck. My truck mechanics blame trailer and the trailer guys blame these sensitive trucks. Im desperate to keep hauling the RV but I need confidence in safety for my family.

asked by: Brandon R

Helpful Expert Reply:

I would love to help you with all the issues you're having but sadly I cannot since it's a factory trailer brake controller. That said, I think it's time you find a new dealer or service center if they were unwilling to help as it's absolutely an issue with the tow vehicle and or factory trailer brake controller. That said, you can bypass the factory trailer brake controller to get the trailer brakes working again, it's hard to say what that might do for the vehicle though as the dealer usually has to program out the factory trailer brake controller once done so. The Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller part # 90885 or similar is going to be a much more reliable option for you though, these are much preferred over the troublesome factory trailer brake controllers. I have attached an article below that goes over the bypass process.

expert reply by: Conner L