Plug And Play Brake Controller For A 2023 Ford Explorer XLT With Towing Package

Updated 06/11/2026 | Published 06/09/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller - Dash Knob - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional

(2933)

$190.00

Universal Mounting Panel for Redarc Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controller Control Knob

(448)

$13.00

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

(1713)

$290.00

Plug-and-Play Wiring Harness for Redarc Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controllers

(183)

$27.00

Question:

I have a 2023 Ford Explorer XLT with a class IV trailer package. I would like to know the best trailer brake controller for my vehicle. I want a package that will plug into the factory plug under the dash, no splicing. I will be towing a 2 axle trailer. Thank you

asked by: Richard M

Expert Reply:

Hi Richard!

The best brake controllers on the market for your 2023 Ford Explorer XLT are going to be from Redarc. They're super easy to use and set up, and they are very reliable. They are the ones to get.

Since you said you will be towing a tandem axle trailer, the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty # RED24FR is going to be a great choice. It can handle 2 axles with brakes on them and will have you completely covered. The Redarc Tow-Pro Elite # RED44FR can handle up to 3 axles with brakes, which is nice, but I'm not sure it's really needed in your case. Plus that one is more expensive. I would go with the Liberty # RED24FR.

Whichever way you go, the Plug-and-Play Wiring Harness for Redarc Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controllers # RED87FR will plug directly into a port under your dash, making this almost completely plug and play. You will still need to mount the knob though, so you will need to drill a small hole for that. A lot of people have been using the # 331-TPSI-001 panel for this, but if you have a switch blank anywhere on your dash or center console, that where I tend to tell people to drill a hole for mounting. I think it looks cleaner.

What kind of trailer are you going to be towing with this?

expert reply by: Lazer S

Jason S.

6/11/2026

I highly recommend the Redarc Tow-PRO Elite. I installed one on my 2022 Nissan Frontier and tow a 16’ tandem trailer with brakes. Super easy to install and it performs just as well as a traditional under dash controller. Take the time installing to make it look factory.

Chris H.

6/11/2026

Ill second the redarc, ive had very good success. Easy install, low profile, mounts to dash so you dont knock your knees.

Jay

6/11/2026

I installed a Redarc Tow-Pro Lberty brake controller on my 2017 Honda Ridgeline to pull my single axle pop-up camper. It plugged directly into my Hondas factory harness by the e-brake pedal. The install was quick & easy (about 30 minutes). The install was also very neat & professional (I am not a pro installer). No drilling was needed as I had an extra slot on my button panel for the controller. 1 thing to note: This control knob is small & will not be in the way at all. You will not accidentally hit it with your knee like other controllers. I have been using this controller for 3 years now. VERY SATISFIED WITH IT!