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Is Curt Echo Brake Controller Reliable  

Updated 09/12/2025 | Published 05/27/2025



Question:

I currently have a pilot brake controller that is not functioning properly, It brakes the trailer to firmly. It is hard wired in by UHaul. I am interested in the Curt Echo but my wife is very concerned we get out somewhere and it doesnt work. Also, how do I undo the Pilot wiring without loosing power to my seven pin connector. Thanks

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Expert Reply:

Hey Jerry! One way or another I would get rid of that Tekonsha Pilot brake controller. It is time delayed which doesn't perform nearly as well or as smoothly as a proportional brake controller. To remove it all you need to do is disconnect those wires running from the brake controller under your dash. The only impact it will have on the 7-way is you will no longer have power running to the brake output pin.

The Curt Echo # C51180 is a nice option but it does require using an app. Once it is set up it will continue to run at the previous settings even if you can't connect through the app for some reason. We do see issues with them from time to time but overall they perform as intended.

If you want my recommendation I would get the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller # RED52VR. It is simple, reliable, and doesn't take up space in the cab of your vehicle. The main unit installs behind the dash so only the control knob is visible giving a nice, clean, OEM appearance. The knob controls the braking power and acts as the manual override so you won't have to mess with an app or worry about it connecting.

This will install where the Pilot was so you can match up the wire colors the way they are now. Do you have a black connector running off of the Pilot that you can disconnect? If so, you could actually use the # RED24FR with the Redarc Tow-Pro Wiring Adapter for Tekonsha Brake Controller Harness # 331-TPH-017 and plug it right in where the Pilot was plugged in. They might have cut off the connector when they spliced it in but it is worth checking.

If you have any other questions feel free to reply below.

expert reply by:
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Robin H
Tow-Pro Liberty Control Knob
Tow-Pro Liberty Control Knob
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Etrailer Expert

Robin H.

9/12/2025

Hey Jerry, did you have a chance to check if there's a black connector running off the Pilot that you can disconnect? I'm asking because it could help others who are looking to replace their brake controller.

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