Does the Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller Drain the Battery While Being Used?
Updated 09/26/2025 | Published 04/27/2025 >
Question:
We just had this installed and now our battery is drained everytime we turn the truck off. Does the break controller cause battery drain?
asked by: Tina R
0
Expert Reply:
Hey Tina. The Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller item # TK90160 would not drain your battery when you're driving or pulling a trailer. It only pulls 12 volts when used, which should easily recharge while you're driving. Sounds like you've got an alternator going out or it's time to replace your battery.
Did you just start towing a trailer with your 2001 Silverado?
expert reply by:
Jerred H
0
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller - Up to 3 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Splice-In
- Under-Dash Box
- Under-Dash
- Up to 3 Axles
- LED Display
- Single Trailer Only
- Tekonsha
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Continue Researching
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Search Results: 6927
- Article: Which RV Propane Tank Size Do I Need?
- Shop: Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller w/ Custom Harness - Up to 3 Axles - Proportional
- Shop: Ultimate Trailer Jack - Sidewind - 27-1/2" Lift - 1,500 lbs
- Shop: Master Lock Trailer Coupler Lock - 1-7/8", 2" and 2-5/16" Ball Couplers
- Shop: Ultimate Trailer Jack - A-Frame - Topwind - 27-1/2" Lift - 2,000 lbs
- Q&A: Mounting Dash Clip for the Tekonsha Primus IQ Brake Controller
- Q&A: Replacement Mounting Bracket for a Primus IQ Brake Controller
- Shop: Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller w/ Custom Harness - Up to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Shop: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Article: Towing a Trailer? Let's Talk About Brake Controllers
- Q&A: Primus IQ Brake Controller Wiring Functions
- Q&A: Parts Needed To Install Trailer Hitch, 7-Way And Brake Controller On 2018 Chevy Express 3500 Van
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 and the P3 Brake Controllers
- Q&A: Parts Needed to Add 7 Way Connector to 2013 Ford F-150 XL
- Article: Parts Needed to Add Electric Drum Brakes to a Trailer


Jerred H.
9/26/2025
Hey Tina, did you find out if the alternator or battery needed replacing on your Silverado? I'm curious to know what worked for you, as it could help others experiencing similar issues.