Troubleshooting Curt Spectrum Brake Controller Not Working Properly
Updated 10/09/2023 | Published 10/07/2023
Question:
I Have a Curt spectrum brake controller, even with the settings on one the brakes are jerky, when I push the brake peddle it comes up not connected then tries to re calibrate itself, any ideas? Thanks
asked by: Chris M
Helpful Expert Reply:
Whenever a brake controller is having issues, like your Curt Spectrum # C51170, the first step is to make sure all of the wiring is properly connected, secured, and undamaged - this includes making sure the grounds are connected to a clean, bare-metal surface. Any loose wiring or exposed parts can cause random issues that are extremely frustrating. Be sure to check both the wiring on your tow vehicle as well as your trailer since trailer wiring can backfeed and cause that "no connected" note you're seeing as well.
If all of the wiring looks good then I recommend checking the Blue wire coming out of the box on the Spectrum. Probe or cut and use a circuit tester to ensure this is getting power when you use your manual override. If all of that looks good then the issue is somewhere between the wiring you checked and your trailer brakes, but if you're still seeing problems then you'll want to check to make sure the controller is getting proper power and potentially replace the controller if it has good power but is still showing problems.
Let me know if you're still having issues after checking all of that and I can see if there are any other steps we can take to getting your controller working for you!
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller - Dash Mounted Knob - Up to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Plug-In
- Dash-Mounted Knob
- Behind-Dash
- Up to 4 Axles
- Indicator Lights
- Multiple Trailers
- CURT
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Shop: Curt Spectrum Brake Controller w/ Custom Harness - Dash Mounted Knob - Up to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Shop: Curt Spectrum Brake Controller w/ Custom Harness - Dash Mounted Knob - Up to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Search Results: electronic brake controller
- Search Results: trailer brakes
- Search Results: e brakes
- Video: Curt Spectrum Brake Controller Installation Made Easy - 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- Shop: Curt TriFlex NEXT Trailer Brake Controller w/ Custom Harness - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Curt Spectrum Brake Controller - No Lights On Control Knob
- Q&A: Troubleshooting No Power To A Curt Spectrum Brake Controller In A 2022 Chevy Silverado 1500
- Q&A: Will a Dead Battery In the Breakaway Box Cause Trailer Brakes to Not Disengage?
- Search Results: 500212
- Q&A: Replacement Oil Seal and O-Ring for Dexter Drum Hub with Oil Bath
- Shop: Timbren Suspension Enhancement System - Rear Axle
- Shop: Spectro Stackable Electrical Quick-Connect - 2 Gauge - 175 Amps - Gray - Qty 1
- Search Results: quick connect leads jump starters and jumper cables
- Search Results: quick connect wire connectors
- Shop: Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Custom Harness - Dash Knob - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional
- Shop: Curt Spectrum Brake Controller w/ Custom Harness - Dash Mounted Knob - Up to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Q&A: Where To Find The Factory Brake Controller Wire Harness In A 2023 Ford F-150
- Q&A: Troubleshooting a Curt Spectrum That Does not Go Through Calibration Sequence
- Search Results: tow chain hooks
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Intermittent Connection Issues With Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller # C51170
- Video: In-Depth Review of the Curt 7-Way to RV Socket LED Circuit Tester
- Video: Curt 7-Way to RV Socket LED Circuit Tester Review
- Video: How to Choose a Trailer Brake Controller
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Video: Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller Review RED24FR
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
on Trailer Brake Controller
