Bypassing ITBC of 2014 Silverado 3500 and Installing Aftermarket Brake Controller

Updated 04/14/2014 | Published 04/12/2014

Question:

I have a 2014 Chevy Silverado 3500 with factory integrated brake controller and and OEM 7 blade plug but I have issues when hooking up to some trailers that work fine with other vehicles/brake controllers. I am wondering if there is a simple plug in adapter available if I purchase the Tekonsha P2 or P3. I believe etrailers codes are Code: 90885 and Code: 90195 for the controllers. I prefer using the integrated system when it works with my trailer I pull most frequently but want the option to quickly change over when I encounter issues with other trailers. I am not opposed to going fulltime with the Tekonsha or another reliable brand controller but would like the option if at all possible. Thanks

asked by: Chuck

Expert Reply:

We have heard numerous reports on the factory GM, Dodge and Ford brake controllers working intermittently with certain trailers over the years, which is why Tekonsha has actually put out a tech bulletin showing how to bypass the factory controller and install an aftermarket model.

I'm not aware of any adapter, but the ITBC (integrated trailer brake controller) can easily be bypassed using the tech bulletin I've linked for you.

I suppose if you wanted to, you could switch back and forth between the ITBC and the Prodigy P2 or the P3, but it would be easier to just stay with the aftermarket controller. Although both controllers are pretty similar function-wise, I really like the more user friendly display of the P3.

expert reply by: Mike L