12 best reese trailer brake controllers

Reese trailer brake controllers are essential components used in towing setups to control and manage the braking of a trailer while it is being towed by a vehicle. These controllers are an important safety feature, ensuring that the trailer's brakes are synchronized with the towing vehicle's brakes, thereby enhancing overall towing safety. Here are some key points about Reese trailer brake controllers:

Function: Reese trailer brake controllers are electronic devices designed to apply the brakes on a trailer when the driver of the towing vehicle applies the brakes. They help distribute braking force proportionally between the towing vehicle and the trailer, allowing for smoother and safer stops.
Types: Reese offers a range of trailer brake controllers, including time-delayed controllers and proportional controllers. Time-delayed controllers have a preset delay in braking force application, while proportional controllers provide braking force proportional to the vehicle's deceleration.
Installation: Installing a Reese trailer brake controller involves connecting it to the towing vehicle's electrical system and brake system. This typically includes wiring it to the vehicle's brake pedal, brake lights, and battery, as well as connecting it to the trailer's wiring and brakes.
Adjustability: Reese brake controllers often feature adjustable settings to fine-tune the braking force applied to the trailer.This allows drivers to customize the braking performance based on the load and towing conditions.
Compatibility: Reese brake controllers are designed to work with a variety of towing setups, including different trailer types, sizes, and weights. It's important to select a controller that is compatible with both your towing vehicle and your trailer.
Safety: Trailer brake controllers play a crucial role in enhancing towing safety. Properly adjusted controllers ensure that the trailer doesn't push the towing vehicle during braking and prevents issues like trailer sway.
Monitoring: Many Reese brake controllers come with monitoring features that display real-time information about the trailer's braking activity. This allows the driver to stay informed about the trailer's behavior while on the road.
Trailer Accessories: In addition to brake controllers, Reese also offers various trailer accessories and towing-related products, such as hitches, hitch balls, and towing mirrors, to help make towing safer and more convenient.
Compliance: When using a trailer brake controller, it's important to ensure compliance with local and regional towing regulations, which may dictate the use of specific braking systems based on the size and weight of the trailer.

In summary, Reese trailer brake controllers are crucial components for safe towing. They come in various types and are designed to be compatible with a wide range of towing setups. Proper installation and adjustment are essential to ensure that the trailer's brakes work effectively and enhance overall towing safety.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best reese trailer brake controllers on the market

Reese Towpower 8508211 Brake Control (Proportional BRAKE-EVN)

Reese

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Reese Towpower BRAKE-EVN brake controller offers advanced proportional braking by applying brake pressure to match the vehicles deceleration rate. Proportional braking gets you get smoother stops that traditional time based controls. The boost feature gives the ability to apply more initial braking at the onset of stopping when towing heavier loads. When adjusted properly for your load, proportional brake controls can even extend the life of your vehicles brakes. The large LED display is easy to see when adjusting the control to handle the weight of your loaded or unloaded trailer. The BRAKE-EVN brake control can handle up to brake 4 axles and offers a simple plug in installation option, so be sure to get the proper factory harness for your vehicle. The perfect choice for light or heavy trailer loads.

1-4 Axle capacity
Boost feature gives ability to apply more initial trailer braking
Reverse battery protection
No leveling required
Diagnostics features incorporated in easy to read LED display

User questions & answers

Question:	Do I need to buy the pigtail for it to fit my 06dodge ram
Answer:	Just type in your 2002 Suburban and Amazon will put the one you need right there. That is what I did and it was perfect plugged right in. Easy as that
Question:	Is there an off and on switch or does LED indicator stay on all the time
Answer:	After 2006, Chevrolet stopped putting a terminal connector on the wire harness for the brake controller. Curt makes a “universal” harness connector that you can use to connect the controller to the truck harness. It is really very easy. Check YouTube for a video. I’m sure someone has done a video for your truck. Sorry, I don’t know the Curt part number for that universal harness but it is less than $10. I bet Amazon will List this harness as an add on if you go to the purchase page for the controller. Be sure to specify your truck info.
Question:	What is the dimensions of this unit (height, width, length front to back
Answer:	Yes, it has a knob on top and a sensitivity bottom on side. The unit will also automatically sense if you need more trailer braking on emergency stops. If you have it set on 3.0 and you are only using 2.2 , it will automatically go to 3.0 if needed. It is a nice unit. Pulling 20 ft. Enclosed with Chevy Duramax.
Question:	Why does Amazon say it won't fit my 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK, aren't they all fairly universal? Or is it just because I don't have a factory harness
Answer:	Proportional..the internal 'tri axis' sensor varies the intensity of electrical brake output dependent on vehicle motion.

REESE Towpower 8507111 Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control, Small Compact Design

Reese

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The REESE Towpower Brakeman IV is a smart electric brake controller that mounts in any direction with no leveling required. Its small, compact design and pre-wired plug-and-play feature allow for quick and easy connection to 2-, 4-, 6- and 8- brake systems. This 100% solid-state electronic includes two separate easy push-button adjustment controls (output and sync) that allow for not only different trailer weights (output) but also the speed of activation (sync) depending on your driving style. For easy-reading, the bright and prominent digital display clearly indicates the output setting, sync setting, brake overload or short connection. Smoother braking starts with a sensing device that determines the voltage power being delivered to the towing vehicle’s brakes and assists in accurately adjusting the trailer brakes for city or highway driving. Safety is key, which is why this controller includes advanced internal circuit protection to help prevent damage and is meant for use on 12-volt negative ground systems only. This essential accessory is backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

INSTALLS QUICKLY: This 100% solid-state electronic with a small compact design mounts in any direction, no leveling required. Pre-wired plug-and-play feature allows for quick and easy connection to 2-, 4-, 6- and 8- brake systems.
ADJUSTS EASILY: Two separate easy push-button adjustment controls (output and sync) allow for not only different trailer weights (output) but also the speed of activation (sync) depending on your driving style.
DIGITAL DISPLAY: Bright and prominent digital display clearly indicates the output setting, sync setting, brake overload or short connection.
SAFE & SECURE: This device includes advanced internal circuit protection to help prevent damage and is for use on 12-volt negative ground systems only. Includes a limited lifetime warranty.

User questions & answers

Question:	Will this plug and play on a 1995 gmc sierra
Answer:	Yes, they are a separate purchase, vehicle dependent, for my silverado it was $15
Question:	will this work on 2018 Silverado
Answer:	The LED lights stay on all the time.
Question:	Will it work on a 2018 dodge 3500 heavy duty
Answer:	Height is about 1 inch. Width is 2.75 inches. Length is 4.0 inches. The wire pig tail sticks out the back. With the bracket, the height is 1.5 inches and 3.0 inches wide and the length is unchanged.
Question:	does it come with a mounting bracket
Answer:	It should. They are only two kinds. You do need an additional harness to connect the unit to your factory wiring. Amazon did the same thing with my Tacoma, even though it was the ONLY controller that fit. I love it and it's very compact. It should be a good fit for your Jeep.

Reese Pilot Brake Controller, Black (74378)

Reese

Based on 580 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Pilot Brake Control, for 1 to 3 Axle Trailers, Timed Actuated

Smoke color lens is ideal for direct light application
Can be mounted upside down and still have a readable display
Protection against short circuit and loss of ground
Mounting bracket included for standard mounting
Lifetime limited warranty
Fit type: Universal Fit. For use on any 12 volt negative ground system

User questions & answers

Question:	Will this work on my 2014 toyota sienna? if so what other parts do i need
Answer:	There should be a Toyota harness. If not you'll have to create one. For my Ford Expedition, we used the Ford harness adapter. Works great!
Question:	does it works on a NISSAN ARMADA 2006 ???what else i need
Answer:	You may need additional wiring and splices/connectors. I recommend you become familiar with the installation that is unique to your vehicle before purchase.
Question:	does it work on aa 2007 chevy
Answer:	I installed this on my 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche 2LT which already came equipped with a receiver and wiring. There are a few YouTube videos and forums that include detailed write ups regarding trailer brake controller installation. Just follow them for your vehicle and use the appropriate wires per the unit's wiring diagram. I didn't use the harness and had this installed in ~ 30 minutes. So far, I've had this unit installed since 2012 and it works great with my 18 foot car hauler. No issues stopping even when fully loaded.
Question:	Is this a proportional brake controller? Or is it a time delay controller
Answer:	It is a time delay controller.

Reese Towpower 74377 Pod Brake control, Black

Reese

Based on 296 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Reese Towpower Pod Brake control is your best choice for one or two axle trailer, especially when your installation options are limited. The controller features solid state electronics, power-on LED for a positive tow vehicle-to-trailer connection and up-front manual over-ride controls. Mounting hardware included for a smooth and simple installation.

Power-on LED for a Positive tow vehicle to trailer connection
Smooth and simple installation
Up-front easy access adjustment controls, even when mounted upside down
5 year limited warranty

User questions & answers

Question:	My 2001 tundra did not come with a tow package and there is no underdash plug for a brake controller. do the instructions give me wiring information
Answer:	Stan,Yes they give you instructions. The controler comes with a wire harness, a connector is on the end of it that you might want to remove and use the wire ends. You probably could order and adapter plug for the Tundra but running the wires yourself will save money. The Hopkins 47185 Multi-Tow Adapter $20.27 has all the wire connections for the rear already prewired. You will need to run 2 12 guage wires from the connector in the rear, one to the controler (Blue) for the Brakes and one to the battery for 12 Volt power to connector if you think you need it back there (RED). Also a 12 guage wire from the battery to the controler (RED). The controler has 4 wires coming from it. 12V Power (RED), Ground (WHITE), Brake wire (BLUE) and a wire (BLACK) that connects under the dash to the stoplite switch at the brake pedal. The ground wire may be long enough, but the rest need to be extended. Use the proper guage wires. The multi tow adapter has all the wires you need to hook up the Tail and Right and Left turn signals, but they to are in a 4 pin plug that is of no use. Cut it off and extend the wires you need to the tail lights. You will need Hopkins 48615 Mounting Bracket $4.98 also. You might need to get a repair manual from Auto Zone to find the correct wires under the dash by the brake and for the Tail and Turn Signals. Hope this helps.Mike
Question:	Will this plug directly into my 2013 Tacoma
Answer:	If you purchased your Tacoma with a Tow Package there will be a pigtail with a connector on it on the Driver side behind the cover next to the emergency brake. You may need the dealer to find it. You should have gotten a wired pigtail that would have been in the glove box that has an adapter on it to plug into the wired pigtail, if not you will need to purchase that also. That a pigtail will wire directly to the pigtail on the controller and that one will plug into the one on the truck. Make sure you know where to mount the controller so you can make the wires long enough. If you purchase a Tacoma without the Tow package you should get the dealer or an auto shop to wire it in.
Question:	will the reese wiring adapter 78124 work with this model on a 2011 ford f
Answer:	If you have the factory Ford pigtail for the brake controller, you don't need anything else , it wires right up.
Question:	Do i need wiring harness for my 2011 nissan titan or does it come with everything i need
Answer:	If your Titan came with a tow package there should be a connector somewhere under the dash. Have the dealer locate it for you. When you order the controler order the harness for that 2011 truck so it will plug into the one provided on the truck. You will have to splice the harnes to the wires coming from the controler. If the Titan didn't come with a tow package you will have additional wiring to do.

Reese Towpower 8508700 Compact IQ Brake Control, 1 Pack

Reese

Based on 154 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The REESE Towpower's Compact IQ professional-grade brake controller helps alleviate the stress placed on a vehicle when towing heavy loads. The controller offers advanced proportional braking by applying just the right amount of brake pressure needed to match the vehicle's deceleration rate.

LED indicator to continuously check the electrical circuit to ensure it is in sync and active
In-dash mounting for a less-intrusive appearance
Compatible with 1-, 2- or 3-axle trailers
Easy to install
Boost option to allow additional braking power when towing heavier loads
Fit type: Universal Fit

User questions & answers

Question:	What harness do i need for a 2004 chevy silverado 2500hd
Answer:	Reese part #7805011, available on Amazon.
Question:	Would this brake controller be plug and play for a 2001 Range Rover
Answer:	With an adapter cable from Tekonsha, it will work plug & play.
Question:	Can I hardwire this into an old Ford Superduty truck
Answer:	It's universal but make sure you check your wire harness in your truck first.
Question:	Where can I find a detailed how-to installation video for this product
Answer:	i found it through google for an install in a FJ cruiser. it helped me a lot

Product features

Reese Towpower 8508700 Compact IQ Brake Control

The REESE Towpower's CompactIQ professional-grade brake controller helps alleviate the stress placed on a vehicle when towing heavy loads. The controller offers advanced proportional braking by applying just the right amount of brake pressure needed to match the vehicle's deceleration rate.

“Boost” option to allow additional braking power when towing heavier loads
LED indicator to continuously check the electrical circuit to ensure it is in sync and active
In-dash mounting for a less-intrusive appearance
Compatible with 1-, 2- or 3-axle trailers
Easy to install

Reese Towpower (74642) Brakeman Timed Compact Brake Control

Reese

Based on 421 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Brakeman Timed Compact Brake Control is designed for single and tandem axle trailers. Made of 100% solid state construction, this item has no moving parts or pendulums, no hydraulic connections and no leveling is required. The compact size allows to mount anywhere inside the passenger compartment. This brake control features a unique “sync” adjustment for towing different trailers, fingertip output controls and a soft touch variable manual control. Mounting bracket, hardware and instructions are included for easy installation. For use on 12 volt negative ground systems only. Reese Towpower brake controls are 100% "solid-state electronic." Models are designed for use with one to four axle systems. These units meet all National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA/DOT) regulations regarding tow vehicle/trailer stoplight activation. Their ease of operation and innovative design features make them perfect choices for today's towing vehicles. Time-Based Brake Controls generate an output signal that increases over a period of time (Ramp Cycle). The Time-Based Brake Controls apply braking power at a fixed rate that is NOT proportional to the pressure applied to the brake pedal.

Completely compatible with anti-lock braking systems
Slide adjustment
No moving parts and no leveling required
Red indicator light
For 2 and 4 brake systems

User questions & answers

Question:	dodge ram 1500. I have the factory brake pigtail. Do i need anything else
Answer:	I think that is all you need to install it.outside of a few butt splices and wire connectors.. GOOD LUCK MY FRIEND!
Question:	i don't have the owners manual and need to know how to set it up for another trailer, its a 32ft 5th wheel. it worked on my 19ft tow behind 10yrs ago
Answer:	Nothing physical should have changed with wiring , your still going to have trailer brake wire brake switch wire and power .. the trailers should not make a difference .. towing vehicle may have. The sync on the side is if you want trailer more or less stopping power keep in middle to start out , the power slide adjustme t on front is amount of power your wanting to stop with keep in middle the adjust from there The sync is slide forward to make tow vehicle stop more, slide back for trailer stop more . Its a compensation switch.. the slide on the front is power to brakes
Question:	Fit a 1995 silverado
Answer:	It has no plug . It will fit anything. It must be hardwired.
Question:	Will this fit 2007 doge ram 2500 deseil or do I need another wiring harnes
Answer:	You will need to get the pigtail and mate it to it. And install it .if your truck has the plug in for for it.. Check YouTube for tips .. The brake controller works on any truck the pigtail is the different part.

Reese Towpower 7805011 Brake Control Wiring Harness (For Chevy)

Reese

Based on 541 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Brake Control O.E.M. style wire harness are designed for models equipped with trailer tow package. The quick and easy plug in style connections reduces possible short circuits and cross wiring of brake controls. This custom pre-wired brake control harness will mate directly between your vehicle and several Reese Towpower brake controls. REESE is the market leader in automotive and recreational product solutions, engineered and designed to meet the demands for work and active lifestyles. Reese Towpower pioneered the technology that has set the standard for today's most advanced towing systems. We cater to the towing needs of everyone from recreation enthusiasts to heavy-duty agriculture users by manufacturing the largest selection of receiver hitches; ball mounts and hitch balls; trailer and hitch locks; couplers, jacks and winches; and electrical and lighting components that meet and exceed industry standards.

Fit Type: Universal Fit

User questions & answers

Question:	Will this fit my 2002 gmc sierra
Answer:	No this will not fit a 2002 it is for 2003-2007 GM trucks. The wiring changed in 2003. You will need the Tekonsha 3025-P made for 1999-2002 GM trucks. It is also cheaper.
Question:	Will this fit 02 Silverado
Answer:	Yes
Question:	will this fit 2003 chevy workhorse chassis? Its on a Gulf Stream Sun voyager motorhome
Answer:	See if you have the right fuse panel arrangement for electric brakes first.
Question:	Will this fit the newer body silverado
Answer:	Tekonsha 3064-p for 2019 2020 Silverado

Reese Towpower 78051 Brake Control Wiring Harness for Chrysler/Dodge

Based on 248 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Brake Control O.E.M. style wire harness are designed for models equipped with trailer tow package. The quick and easy plug in style connections reduces possible short circuits and cross wiring of brake controls. This custom pre-wired brake control harness will mate directly between your vehicle and several Reese Towpower brake controls. To be used with the following vehicles: 2007-2009 Aspen with Factory Tow Package; 1997-2011 Dakota Pickup with Factory Tow Package; 1998-2009 Durango with Factory Tow Package; 1995-2009 Pickup, Ram, Full Size 1500 Only, All Models; 1995-2009 Pickup, Ram, Full Size 2500 Only, All Models; 1995-2009 Pickup, Ram, Full Size 3500 Only, All Models.

Custom pre-wired Chrysler/Dodge brake control harness
O.E.M. Style Wire Harness
Reduces possible short circuits and cross wiring of brake controls
Quick and easy plug in style

User questions & answers

Question:	Does this have a plug on both ends
Answer:	It has a factory connector that plugged right into my trucks factory brake harness. It did have a pigtail , if you need to wire it in.
Question:	Will this plug into a 2019 dodge Ram Classic
Answer:	I’m not sure, it plugged right in to my factory pigtail. I have a 2001 Dodge 2500 diesel. I think the specs list which trucks it will work on.
Question:	how long is the harnass
Answer:	The harness is about 10-12 inches long.
Question:	This plugs directly into tow package under dash? No need to hardwire
Answer:	Plugged right in for me in my 06 mega cab. I believe the plug is standard in those rams. Look for the blue plug under your dash. Kind of behind the parking brake. Can be hard to see at first.

Reese Towpower 7437711 Pod Brake Control

Reese

Based on 179 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Reese Towpower Pod Brake control is your best choice for one or two axle trailer, especially when your installation options are limited. The controller features solid state electronics, power-on LED for a positive tow vehicle-to-trailer connection and up-front manual over-ride controls. Mounting hardware included for a smooth and simple installation. REESE is the market leader in automotive and recreational product solutions, engineered and designed to meet the demands for work and active lifestyles. Reese Towpower pioneered the technology that has set the standard for today's most advanced towing systems. We cater to the towing needs of everyone from recreation enthusiasts to heavy-duty agriculture users by manufacturing the largest selection of receiver hitches; ball mounts and hitch balls; trailer and hitch locks; couplers, jacks and winches; and electrical and lighting components that meet and exceed industry standards.

Power-on LED for a positive tow vehicle-to-trailer connection
Solid state electronics with up-front manual over-ride controls
Rugged, easy mount chassis
Timed activation
Mounting hardware included for a smooth and simple installation

User questions & answers

Question:	Is this plug and play on a 2000 silerado or does it need an adapter
Answer:	Apparently there is a law in CA that states the battery has to be sealed and 10 year life.
Question:	Dose this product come with wire to plug in 2 gen Dodge Ram
Answer:	Very easy. Twist the unit to take it off the base, 9v battery is loose with a snap-on lead. Takes ten seconds.
Question:	Will this work on a 2000 tundra
Answer:	That is normal, do not worry about that
Question:	Does this come with generic wiring ? I have an add on wiring harness in my truck. Just wondering if I need an additional wiring package
Answer:	No they are individually separate

Reese Towpower 78056 Brake Control Wiring Harness for Infinity/Nissan

Based on 98 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Custom pre-wired Infinity/Nissan brake control harness
O.E.M. Style Wire Harness
Reduces possible short circuits and cross wiring of brake controls
Quick and easy plug in style

User questions & answers

Question:	Will this fit a 2017 Titan
Answer:	It fit my 2016 Frontier so there should be no problem with the Titan. If you have the factory Towing Package, the connector is to the right of the steering column taped to other wiring. It fits the white connector on this harness. There was plenty of length to put the controller to the left of the steering column. There is PDF online (not at Reese) that gives good instruction. Reese said it would not fit my Frontier but it does and works very well. Hope this helps, george
Question:	Will this fit a 2017 Nissian Titan
Answer:	Yes
Question:	Will this fit my 2019 Nissan frontier
Answer:	It fit my 17 titan, initially...I removed the lower dash panel and found what I thought was the wiring harness and it didn't fit, turns out there was another wiring harness above it that was the correct one. Plugged right in and worked perfectly

Reese Towpower 78059 Brake Control Wiring Harness for Ford Super Duty

Based on 24 reviews Check latest price

Custom pre-wired Ford Super Duty brake control harness
O.E.M. Style Wire Harness
Reduces possible short circuits and cross wiring of brake controls
Quick and easy plug in style

Reese Towpower 78055 Brake Control Wiring Harness for Lexus/Toyota

Reese

Based on 126 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Custom pre-wired Lexus/Toyota brake control harness
O.E.M. Style Wire Harness
Reduces possible short circuits and cross wiring of brake controls
Quick and easy plug in style

User questions & answers

Question:	Will 78055 fit 2001 tundra
Answer:	No
Question:	any idea if it fits a 2018 tacoma
Answer:	You Do need an adapter cable in order to direct plug into Dodge ram. The brake controller then becomes a plug and play unit. Works great with my Gulf Stream Trailer.
Question:	With this work in a 2003 Tacoma with a factory tow package
Answer:	That’s what I bought it for! Mounted easily and with the Ford harness adapter it plugged in under dash and was ready to use in minutes!
Question:	What is the length of this from plug to plug
Answer:	What’s an f.53