How To Prevent Tekonsha Primus Trailer Brake Controller From Draining Vehicle Battery When Sitting

Updated 03/08/2024 | Published 03/01/2024

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Question:

How much current does the controller draw when it is in sleep mode? I see that the LEDs go out ofter some minutes of not being used, so I assume it enters a low-power sleep mode? My concern is battery drain if the vehicle is left sitting for a few months.

asked by: Steve H

Expert Reply:

I wish I could give you an exact power draw for the Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller # TK90160 but after spending 2 hours on hold with them they only said it is near 0 draw. Since it sounds like your Primus is connected directly to the battery and not a ignition powered switch you might consider adding a Relay # BDW42035 so the power going to the controller will switch off when the ignition is switched off.

With any battery which sits for months at a time you really should use a Maintainer # 329-GENIUS1 to prevent damage to the battery. Even without a draw a battery can still degrade over time.

expert reply by: Bud M