Aftermarket brake controller vs OEM

[abody711]

Trying to decide on brake controller for my Big Horn. The question is if there a reason to go with OEM rather than aftermarket. The only reason I see that it looks better. Any input is appreciated.

TIA
Allen

 

[Johnvan]

I think the factory brake controller uses actual data from the vehicle computer vs an aftermarket which is likely going to be using an accelerometer. The factory would be superior. An aftermarket OBD2 brake controller would be more expensive than just buying the factory one.

 

[FredFlintstone]

I can confirm, the OEM controller uses a sensor to detect how much brake pressure is being applied. Aftermarket brake controllers only detect change in inertia which results in less proportionate braking .

 

[Rick3019]

After market very jurky you’re always trying to fine tune it between highway and city driving Factory set it once and you’re done very smooth not only that it shows up in gauge cluster. I added factory for $270 and had dealer program for $62

 

[abody711]

Went ahead and ordered individual parts listed on another thread. Cost was $115 vs $259 for kit. Also found instructions online.

 

[bpgbg9]

Just got my 2019 1500 last month and they said the factory TBC is on back order until late June. I had a hitch place install an aftermarket TBC, which would not show power being sent to the brakes?? So, I had to take it back to the dealer for a software update and now the aftermarket TBC is testing fine BUTTTTTTTT, dash lights up that I need to service my TBC every time I start the truck and it's showing a red sign on the dash (looks like a trailer with a red line through it). Anyone else have this issue yet? Does the dash code go away once I hook in the trailer??? I am new to all of this. I pick up my travel trailer in a few weeks so I have not towed with it.

 

[FredFlintstone]

Just got my 2019 1500 last month and they said the factory TBC is on back order until late June. I had a hitch place install an aftermarket TBC, which would not show power being sent to the brakes?? So, I had to take it back to the dealer for a software update and now the aftermarket TBC is testing fine BUTTTTTTTT, dash lights up that I need to service my TBC every time I start the truck and it's showing a red sign on the dash (looks like a trailer with a red line through it). Anyone else have this issue yet? Does the dash code go away once I hook in the trailer??? I am new to all of this. I pick up my travel trailer in a few weeks so I have not towed with it.

Sounds like they flashed the code for OEM Trailer brake controller and it's giving you the errors because you do not have the TBC installed. Your aftermarket TBC isn't going to show anything on the dashboard. It will show output either time or inertia based relative to your truck. What controller?

 

[Azarmyguy918]

After market very jurky you’re always trying to fine tune it between highway and city driving Factory set it once and you’re done very smooth not only that it shows up in gauge cluster. I added factory for $270 and had dealer program for $62

Dang I wish my dealers were that nice! Cheapest I’ve found been quoted is between 600/800 bucks and that’s with multiple dealerships here in Az!