Basic Electric Brake Controllers for a 2012 Toyota Tundra with Tow Package

Updated 06/16/2026 | Published 06/11/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Custom Harness - Dash Knob - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional

(2943)

$200.00

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

(1086)

$198.44

Question:

Hello, can you provide me some options on an electric brake controller for the 2012 Tundra. It has a tow package, but the controllers Im finding say without tow package. Can you send a link or two on basic controllers that will work with a 2 axle trailer that has a tow package? Thank you

asked by: Chuck S

Expert Reply:

Sure, I can help with that. I can see why the fitment notes are confusing. For a 2012 Toyota Tundra with the factory tow package and factory 7 way connector, you'll want a brake controller that plugs into the factory brake controller port under the dash. The good news is that there are several options that work great with a 2 axle trailer and install without any hardwiring.

If you're looking for a basic, reliable, and easy to install brake controller option, I recommend the Curt TriFlex NEXT Brake Controller part # C67GV. This is a proportional controller, which means it applies the trailer brakes in proportion to how hard you're braking the truck. It includes the custom wiring harness for your Tundra, making installation very straightforward. A lot of customers like this controller because it's easy to use and provides smooth, predictable braking. We have also had one customer say it took 3 minutes to set up.

Another option that I personally really like is the Redarc Tow Pro Liberty part # RED82CR. It also includes the custom harness for your Tundra, but instead of a traditional controller mounted under the dash, it uses a small control knob that can be mounted in a dash panel. It gives the cab a much cleaner look and doesn't take up knee room. The installation is a little more involved because you'll need to mount the knob, but the finished result looks almost factory installed.

Both controllers will work very well with your truck and a 2 axle trailer. If your goal is simply to get a dependable brake controller installed quickly and economically, I'd go with the Curt TriFlex NEXT. If you'd prefer a cleaner looking setup that takes up less space in the cab, the Redarc is tough to beat.

What will you be towing most often with the Tundra, a camper, a boat, or a work trailer?

expert reply by: Heather A

redarc
(click to enlarge)

curt
(click to enlarge)

Chuck S.

6/12/2026

I'm very interested in the second one mentioned, the RED82CR. When I go to the description of this one, it says "without factory tow package". Can I assume this will not work with my Tundra since my Tundra does indeed have the tow package?

Heather A.

6/12/2026

@ChuckS think the confusion may be coming from the way the fitment information is displayed. The Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty # RED82CR is a confirmed fit for your 2012 Tundra with the factory tow package, and it includes the custom plug that connects to the factory brake controller port under the dash. I can't see exactly what you're seeing on your screen, but I can assure you this is the correct setup for a Tundra equipped with the tow package. :)

Chuck

6/12/2026

@HeatherA When you click on your link for the RED8CR - https://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Brake-Controller/Redarc/RED82CR.html Under the box that says CHANGE VEHICLE, it states to use this controller (RED8CR) without tow package.

William

6/13/2026

@HeatherA i used the red arc plug and play worked great very easy to install

See All (6) Replies to Chuck S. ∨

Matthew B.

6/13/2026

I have been successfully using the Redarc Tow Pro Liberty for about a year and have had good results with my 2023 4Runner pulling a ~4000 single axle travel trailer. The installation was very straightforward and the tweaking/tuning of the controller for my load is simple (with a turn of the dial).

Heather A.

6/13/2026

@MatthewB Thanks for sharing your experience! It's always great to hear from someone who's been using the Tow-Pro Liberty in the real world. I agree that the simple adjustment knob is one of the biggest advantages of the Redarc system, and the compact design makes for a really clean installation. Just curious, what kind of travel trailer do you have?

Matthew B.

6/14/2026

@HeatherA: Catalina Coachman

Heather A.

6/16/2026

@MatthewB Nice!

James

6/14/2026

I have the RED82CR and use with my 2009 Tacoma PreRunner with tow package. Works great, dash dial install, very simple/hidden/clean install. Harness no issue, connects to brake controller harness located driver side kick panel. Bit of cable management and a zip tie or two and you’re all set.

Heather A.

6/16/2026

@James Thanks for sharing your experience! The dash mounted control knob really does make for a clean, factory looking installation. We appreciate you taking the time to pass along those installation details since they'll be helpful for other Tacoma owners considering the same setup. What do you usually tow?

James

6/16/2026

@HeatherA I tow a 2024 Keystone Bullet Crossfire 1700BH (electric brakes). It’s about all my lil dependable Taco can handle. :)

Heather A.

6/16/2026

@James Those Bullets are really nice! Toyota's are tough. People always joke that they're family heirlooms because they end up getting passed down to the kids.

Gary W.

6/16/2026

The Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty brake controller was super easy to install in my 2016 Sequoia. Guessing about ~45 minutes. I watched the installation video, it was very helpful. I've towed the travel trailer three times since installation. The brake controller is easy to adjust and worked great. I do have the tow package on the Sequoia.

Heather A.

6/16/2026

@GaryW Thanks for sharing your experience! It's great to hear the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty was such an easy install on your 2016 Sequoia and that our installation video helped make the process even smoother. Getting everything installed in about 45 minutes is impressive! What kind of travel trailer do you have if you don't mind my asking?