Can I Install an After Market Brake Controller if I Already Have an OEM Controller on my Truck?

Question

Question:

I have a 2025 3500 cheverolet with factory trailer brakes, it works very intermittently, which is interesting to say the least, I had it back to dealer three times. my question is can I install this with my existing trailer brake system ? maybe this question cant be answered. thank you jgibbs

asked by: Jerry G

0

Expert Reply:

I'm sorry to hear what's going on, Jerry.

If your 2025 Chevy 3500 already has a factory brake controller built in, you will need to have the truck’s computer updated to remove it. If you skip that step, your truck will try to revert to using the OEM controller instead of the Curt Spectrum Brake Controller # C36QV.

The only way to do this is to take your truck to the dealer and have them remove it from the computer.

Your factory controller definitely shouldn’t be doing that. When you took it to the dealer, what did they tell you?

expert reply by: Gwendolyn Y

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Jerry G.

4/13/2026

I have had it to two different dealers three times, they plug a simulator into the trailer plug, and can find nothing. I asked them to let the tech pull an RV with electric brakes for a few days, they didn't. it's a known intermittent problem. I had the same problem with the last two Chevrolets. I probably will have to get a wiring diagram and trace it back and look for a wiring issue or bad module etc. or do what you suggested, or maybe trade it. thanks for your answer and getting back to me. jgibbs

Gwendolyn Y.

4/14/2026

@JerryG If everything is fine on your trailer and you’ve checked to make sure there are no bad magnets, then checking the wires on your truck would be a good start. If you can find the ground, make sure that it’s not loose. Also, check the 7-way at the back to inspect the blades.

Ethan M.

4/14/2026

@JerryG are you experiencing these issues while pulling the same trailer? It might help in narrowing down the issue by using or borrowing another trailer equipped with electric brakes to see if it’s a ground issue with the trailer. I don’t have factory trailer brakes but my aftermarket controllers will cut in and out with the beat up farm trailers I pull, and for me, it’s always my trailer plug and or wiring where is been abused from work or chewed on by rodents. Might be an easy fix. Hope you find the solution and if I find new information I’ll be sure to share.

Jerry

4/15/2026

@EthanM thanks, yes i pulled multiple trailers with the same results, and when I use my lighter truck everything works fine. thanks for your input. i'm thinking maybe a module etc. I understand there are two of them. when the dealer plugs in the simulator there is no issue, tried to explain a simulator is just a tool and not real time driving. I do get an intermitten problem is a real headache for the techs, who knows ????

See All (5) Replies to Jerry G. ∨

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Answer 2

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Answer 3

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Answer 4

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Can I Install an After Market Brake Controller if I Already Have an OEM Controller on my Truck?

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