Will The Curt Echo Trailer Brake Controller Activate Of An Exhaust Brake On Diesel Pusher?
Updated 02/17/2026 | Published 06/22/2024
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Question:
Echo Brake controller. 1When my diesel pushers exhaust brake is engaged and no foot on service brake pedal, does the echo brake controller enguage the trailer brake? 2Is the brake controller triggered by the coach brake lights?
asked by: Joe
Expert Reply:
This can vary from vehicle to vehicle as many manufacturers began to wire in the brake lights to operate when an exhaust brake is used. Since the Curt Echo # C51180 activates when it sees the brake lights are on this may cause your trailers brakes to also activate. The only way to know is by verifying if your brake lights are activated off your exhaust brakes by visually checking. This is why I always recommend the Hayes Air Actuated Trailer Brake Controller # HA100400C to ensure the trailer brakes only activate when the brake pedal is used on vehicles with air actuated brakes. If you have hydraulic brakes you could wire a controller like the Tekonsha P3 # 90195 and a Universal Stop Light Switch # RM-751000 if the cold side of your brake switch gets power when exhaust brake is used.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller - 7-Way Plug-in w/ Bluetooth App - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Plug-In
- Smartphone App
- Under-Dash
- Up to 2 Axles
- Smartphone Display
- Multiple Trailers
- CURT
more information >
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Jerred H.
2/17/2026
Hey, were you able to check if your brake lights come on when the exhaust brake is engaged? Knowing that would show whether the Echo controller is activating your trailer brakes. Your update could make it easier for others with similar setups to confirm how theirs works.