Brake Controller Option for a 2018 BMW X3

Updated 04/15/2026 | Published 04/06/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Brake Controller - Dash Knob - Off-Road Mode - Up to 3 Axles - Proportional

(1740)

$290.00

Curt TriFlex NEXT Trailer Brake Controller w/ Plug-In Harness - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(20)

$170.02

Question:

I have a 2018 bmw x3 and found the hitch and 7 pin wiring harness but I have not seen anything in writing or in the videos about how to control trailer brakes . Am I missing something? I’m looking to pull a lightweight camper but it is still about 3000lbs and has brakes. I also understand that any controller will probably need to be programmed to the vehicle. Thank you for any help.

asked by: Jeff P

Expert Reply:

Hey, Jeff.

Yes, if your trailer has electric brakes, you will also need a brake controller to be able to control them. For a traditional controller, I recommend the Curt TriFlex NEXT Trailer Brake Controller # C67PQ. You will need to hardwire this in and also mount it on your dash.

If having a controller mounted on your dash isn’t something you want, then I recommend the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite # RED44FR. This controller uses a knob that can be mounted anywhere on your dash, making for a much cleaner look.

You will also have to hardwire this controller, but a major feature is that once you plug in the trailer, it will auto-calibrate, and then you can fine-tune the settings via the knob. The auto calibration makes first time towing easier and smoother since it takes some of the initial guesswork out of the equation.

I included some pictures below of how each one looks once installed.

expert reply by: Gwendolyn Y

Redarc Knob Mounted
(click to enlarge)

Curt TriFlex Mounted
(click to enlarge)

Jon K.

4/14/2026

I have had many different controllers over the years and the Redarc is by far the best one out there

Gwendolyn Y.

4/14/2026

@JonK That's great to hear. What kind of trailer/camper are you towing?

Sharon

4/15/2026

I purchased the RedArc trailer brake controller after much research. You will definitely have to have a brake controller installed with your BMW. I have been 100% satisfied with the RedArc because it offers progressive braking in unison between your vehicle and trailer i.e. when you apply your vehicle brakes it automatically applies the brakes to the trailer with the same amount of pressure and that is a beautiful thing. I had it professionally installed in my VW touareg. I have been using it for 2.5 years. My travel trailer is 20.5ft.

Gwendolyn Y.

4/15/2026

@Sharon Thanks for sharing all this, Sharon. I also couldn't agree more with the progressive braking. So much better than the older style of controllers there used to be. When's the next trip with your camper?