Best Brake Controller Options For 2025 Ford Explorer Pulling Rove Lite BH 14  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Hey Mark, thanks for reaching out. I can definitely help with that.

Does your Explorer already have the factory 4-flat trailer connection? If so, the Curt Echo # C51180 can work great and will require less installation time than really any other option. You will need to install a 7-way using the # ETBC7L install kit. All this involves is plugging the current 4-flat into the 7-way adapter and run a wire from the 7-way to the vehicle battery. You do not need to tap into the break switch or anything.

If your explorer does not have the factory tow package, you can still install a controller, but there will be more installation. You will need to install a 4-flat part # C56093 and a 7-way using the # ETBC7 install kit. This kit is intended to be used with in-cab controllers like the Tekonsha P3 # 90195, which is what I recommend.

The in-cab controllers tend to be a bit more reliable since they don't require a smartphone connection. If you plan to tow with your Explorer pretty frequently, it is probably worth doing the in-cab option. If you will only be towing every now and then, the Bluetooth controller is a great option because it is super easy to set up and take down as needed. This is also the best option if you don't want to install anything in the cab of the vehicle itself. Ultimately it comes down to your preference though.

Do you have the factory tow package? Let me know if you have any questions.

expert reply by: Jesse M

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Mark S.

8/26/2025

Hi, Jesse. Yes, our Explorer does have a tow package but since sending my inquiry I have decided to go with an in cab solution. If I did my research correctly, I believe there is a “plug and play” option that Curt offers that basically gets plugged in under the dash, inline with the power to the brake pedal? Please advise. Mark.

Jesse M.

8/26/2025

@MarkS Yes there is a plug and play option from Curt, the Curt Echo In-Line Bluetooth Brake Controller # C79DR. Just keep in mind in order to use this you will need to install the # ETBC7 kit to upgrade your factory 4-flat to a 7-way.

Mark

8/26/2025

@JesseM The tow package on the Explorer has both the 4 pin and the 7 pin connectors. The device I was talking about does not plug into the back of the vehicle, it goes under the dash, is NOT Bluetooth and is specific for your vehicle because it plugs into the power line feeding the brake pedal.

Jesse M.

8/26/2025

@Mark Oh so you do have the 7-way already. Gotcha. What brake controller are you referring to exactly? I am not seeing anything like that on the Curt site. Do you have a part number for it? I can definitely look into it.

Mark

8/26/2025

@JesseM it is the REDARC Tow-Pro Elite Electric Trailer Brake Controller, Jesse. I believe I may have been mistaken when I said it was on the Curt website. To install a wiring harness and dash mount knob are also required.

Jesse M.

8/27/2025

@Mark Ah ok yes now I am tracking. I am Familiar with that one. We are a Redarc distributor. Did the factory tow package on your Explorer include an under-dash plug for a brake controller? If so, I am assuming that plug would be the same as all the other Ford plugs. Redarc does not show a fit for the 2025 Explorer but if you do have the factory under-dash plug, part # RED55CR is what you would need. It comes with the Tow-Pro Elite controller and the custom pigtail for the Ford OEM connection. If you do not have the under-dahs plug, the # RED55CR also comes with a universal pigtail that can be used to hardwire the controller if needed.

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