Does P3 Brake Controller Need Power Ran to it at all Times

Updated 06/10/2025 | Published 06/05/2025

Question:

I have installed the controller in my 2009 Chevy Silverado 1500. I connected all the wires per your video for the 2010 Silverado. When I connected up the power wire to the stud on the battery, the controller powered up even without the key in the ignition. The display correctly shows that there is no trailer connected. I thought the unit would power up with the key on. Did I wire something incorrectly? Is there a way to manually shut off the controller? Do I need to wire in a relay to switch the power to the controller?

asked by: Daniel S

Expert Reply:

Hey Daniel, you did everything right so don't worry. The P3 part # 90195 is designed to have power and be "on" at all times. When it's not used for several minutes it goes into a sleep mode so it won't drain your battery. The reason you want it to have power at all times is so that it doesn't forget the settings you pick so there's no need to manually power of the controller either.

What will you be towing?

expert reply by: Jameson C