Can 2015 Chevy Silverado 2500 With Factory Brake Controller Use Aftermarket Brake Controller
Updated 01/19/2026 | Published 12/24/2025
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Question:
I have 2015 silverado 2500. the factory brake controller works intermittently brought to the dealer they cant fix it. my question is this, can i use a aftermarket brake controller with a truck that has a factory controller mounted in the dash?
asked by: Erik c
Expert Reply:
Hey Erik! Yes, you can use an aftermarket brake controller on your 2015 Silverado 2500. Did they tell you what was wrong with it? If it is the brake controller itself and your factory wiring is fine you could use something like the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Custom Harness # RED26CR. This has a custom wiring harness that will connect to your factory wiring and 7-way.
If you have an issue with your vehicle wiring, specifically the brake output wire, you could still install a brake controller but it would be a manual installation. The # RED52VR with a universal wiring harness would work, and you could run a new brake output wire # 10-1-1 back to your 7-way. If you have other wiring issues, you could completely bypass all of the factory wiring and add a new 7-way using the # ETBC7 as well.
Ideally you can use the factory wiring. I added the other options to illustrate that one way or another it is possible to use an aftermarket brake controller. I would steer clear of the Autowbrake # 3430001 you were looking at unless this is a trailer you're renting out to people who have a 7-way but don't have a brake controller. A traditional brake controller will give you better performance and save money.
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Product Page this Question was Asked From
Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Custom Harness - Dash Knob - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Plug-In
- Dash-Mounted Knob
- Behind-Dash
- Up to 2 Axles
- Indicator Lights
- Single Trailer Only
- Redarc
more information >
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on Trailer Brake Controller
Robin H.
1/19/2026
Hey Erik, how did things go with adding the aftermarket brake controller to your Silverado? Did the Redarc setup work smoothly with your factory wiring? Your update could make it easier for others dealing with the same issue.