Will Redarc Tow-Pro Link Work On 2021 Silverado 1500 With Factory Brake Controller

Updated 02/13/2026 | Published 02/12/2026

Question:

Has anyone tested the new Tow-Pro Link on a 2021 Silverado 1500 that originally came with the OEM brake controller? I bought a Redarc Tow-Pro Elite that I was never able to use because it wouldnt play well with OEM brake controller and I could never get a straight answer from Chevy on how to disable the OEM controller. I worked with Redarc for quite some time and finally gave up on the aftermarket controller. Im curious if this new controller somehow works.

asked by: Jeff

Expert Reply:

Hi Jeff, welcome back and sorry to hear that gave you so much trouble. The Redarc Tow-Pro Link Bluetooth Brake Controller # RED57AR will work on your Silverado. This plugs in-line at the back of your 7-way at the rear of the truck. You can either disconnect the OEM brake controller completely or sever the brake output wire before it gets to the 7-way connector and cap it off.

If you cut the wire the OEM controller will still send power back for brakes but it will never actually make it to the trailer. The Tow-Pro Link will still get power from the 12V line to operate. The brake output wire running from the cab on the vehicle side isn't required for this to function so you're completely bypassing the factory brake controller.

What trailer are you planning to tow with the Silverado?

expert reply by: Robin H

Tow-Pro Link
(click to enlarge)

Jeff

2/13/2026

Thanks, Robin. Just to be clear, you're saying cut the wire that would eventually power the #2 (trailer brake) pin on the 7 pin connector, upstream, or before the wire would plug into the RED57AR brake controller wiring? I did reach out to Redarc as well and they stated the RED57AR uses the 12v wire for its power along with the brake light circuit. We tow our Intech Sol Horizon Rover with our Silverado. At first, I thought it would be cool to have the OEM brake controller, but after years of using Prodigy and Redarc brake controllers I've not been pleased with its operation. It applies the brakes fine, but it's horrible if you're in any kind of stop and go traffic, or when navigating the campground. Unless I turn it way down, the GM brake controller jerks the trailer brakes, when applying and releasing. Unfortunately, the way their brake controller is designed, it's not a trivial task to disable or remove it. I'm hoping this new Redarc unit will solve that.

Robin H.

2/13/2026

@Jeff that is correct, you would sever the wire before it gets to the connector where the # RED57AR plugs in at the rear. I would do it a few feet away, leave yourself wire on either side just in case you want to use it at some point down the line. Typically blue, 5 o'clock position, typically labeled pin #2. The Tow-Pro will get the 12V power still from the vehicle, and which also passes through to the trailer. The brake controller will supply power on the brake output pin right there at the connector, which will run through to the brakes on the trailer. I agree with you on the OEM vs some of the better options. We're pretty excited about the Redarc wireless model since the Liberty and Elite are such awesome products. Prodigy (Tekonsha) is good too but their future is a little uncertain since the parent company just went under and they're for sale now.