Choosing the Best Tekonsha Trailer Brake Controller for Your Needs

• Oct 05, 2024 @ 14:51

When it comes to towing safety, a reliable trailer brake controller is essential. The Tekonsha trailer brake controller stands out as a top choice for many drivers, offering a range of options to suit different needs and budgets. These devices play a crucial role in managing your trailer's electric brakes, giving you better control and peace of mind on the road.

In this article, we'll look at three popular Tekonsha brake controllers: the entry-level Voyager, the mid-range Primus IQ, and the advanced Prodigy P2. We'll explore their features, including Plug & Play installation, manual override functions, and reverse-polarity protection. By the end, you'll have a clear idea of which Tekonsha trailer brake controller is the best fit for your towing setup, whether you're a weekend camper or a frequent hauler.

Tekonsha Voyager: Entry-Level Option

The Tekonsha Voyager is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and affordable trailer brake controller. This entry-level option offers a range of features that make it a popular choice among weekend campers and occasional haulers.

Features

The Voyager is a proportional electric brake controller that provides automatic braking based on the intensity and rate at which you apply your tow vehicle's brakes. This is made possible by an internal inertia sensor, which ensures smooth and secure trailer braking in any situation.

One of the standout features of the Voyager is its easy-to-read indicator. The bi-colored LED display shows settings, real-time diagnostics, and alerts. When the light is green, it indicates a secure connection between your vehicle and trailer. As you apply the brakes, the light gradually changes to red, showing the relative braking power being applied.

The Voyager also offers a manual override function. If you need to manually apply the brakes, you can simply move the manual control lever to the left. The controller will then apply power to your trailer's brakes up to the amount you've previously set.

Installation is a breeze thanks to the Plug & Play feature. The Voyager comes with a snap-in dash mounting clip and a Plug & Play port for two plug adapters. The electrical connector is removable, allowing you to easily unplug, unclip, and store the unit when not in use.

The Voyager is versatile, working with trailers that have 1 to 4 axles (2 to 8 brakes). It's compatible with a wide range of vehicles, including Ford, GM, Chevy, Dodge, RAM, Toyota, Jeep, and more. However, keep in mind that a vehicle-specific Tekonsha Plug & Play brake controller wiring harness is sold separately.

Pros and Cons

Pricing

The Tekonsha Voyager is priced competitively, making it an attractive option for those on a budget. While prices can vary depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions, you can generally expect to pay around $80 to $100 for this brake controller.

It's worth noting that the Voyager comes with all the mounting hardware needed for installation. Additionally, it's backed by a five-year limited warranty, providing peace of mind and protection for your investment.

When considering the price, remember that you may need to purchase a vehicle-specific wiring harness separately. This additional cost should be factored into your budget if your vehicle doesn't already have a compatible wiring setup.

In conclusion, the Tekonsha Voyager offers a solid balance of features and affordability. It's a great starting point for those new to towing or those who don't require the advanced functionality of higher-end models. With its easy installation, reliable performance, and budget-friendly price, the Voyager proves to be a valuable tool for enhancing your towing safety and control.

Check out our review to see why this product is great for towing!

Tekonsha Primus IQ: Mid-Range Choice

The Tekonsha Primus IQ is a step up from the Voyager, offering more advanced features and improved performance. This mid-range trailer brake controller has been an industry staple for over a decade, providing reliable braking power in a compact design.

Features

The Primus IQ is a proportional electric brake controller that uses an internal inertia sensor to provide smooth and secure trailer braking. It's self-leveling when mounted within a 70-degree vertical range, eliminating the need for manual adjustments after installation.

One of the standout features of the Primus IQ is its easy-to-read LED display. This digital readout shows real-time diagnostics, including voltage output to the trailer brakes and connection status. It also has self-diagnostic capabilities, alerting you to any issues with your trailer brake system.

The Primus IQ includes a "Boost" feature, which gives you the ability to apply more initial trailer braking when towing heavier loads. This feature offers three levels of additional stopping power, providing extra confidence in various towing situations.

Like the Voyager, the Primus IQ has a manual override function. However, it uses a slide knob instead of a lever, which some users find more intuitive. This allows you to manually apply the trailer brakes when needed, such as when backing into tight spots or if you need to correct trailer sway.

The Primus IQ works proportionally in reverse, making it easier to back up your trailer. It's compatible with trailers that have 1 to 3 axles (2 to 6 brakes), making it suitable for a wide range of towing setups.

Installation is straightforward thanks to the Plug & Play feature. The Primus IQ comes with a snap-in dash mounting clip and a Plug & Play port for two plug adapters. The removable electrical connector allows for easy storage when not in use.

Pros and Cons

Pricing

The Tekonsha Primus IQ is priced in the mid-range category for trailer brake controllers. While prices can vary depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions, you can generally expect to pay around $150 to $180 for this brake controller.

It's worth noting that the Primus IQ comes with all the necessary mounting hardware for installation. Additionally, it's backed by a limited lifetime warranty, providing long-term protection for your investment.

When considering the price, remember that you may need to purchase a vehicle-specific wiring harness separately. This additional cost should be factored into your budget if your vehicle doesn't already have a compatible wiring setup.

The Primus IQ offers a good balance of features and affordability. It's a step up from entry-level models, providing more advanced functionality without the higher price tag of top-tier controllers. For those who tow frequently or need more precise control over their trailer brakes, the Primus IQ is a solid choice that offers good value for money.

Read our review to learn how this product can help with your towing!

Tekonsha Prodigy P2: Advanced Functionality

The Tekonsha Prodigy P2 is a top-tier trailer brake controller that offers advanced features for those who need precise control and versatility in their towing setup. This proportional brake controller uses cutting-edge technology to provide smooth and efficient braking in various situations.

Features

The Prodigy P2 stands out with its state-of-the-art tri-axis accelerometer, allowing for installation at any 360-degree vertical angle. This flexibility makes it easy to mount in almost any vehicle, regardless of dashboard layout or available space.

One of the standout features of the Prodigy P2 is its patented boost system. This system allows you to adjust the feel of each braking event, offering four levels of boost: b, b1, b2, and b3. The factory setting is b1, which provides a subtle braking experience where you can barely feel the trailer's response. As you increase the boost level, the braking becomes more aggressive, with b3 being ideal for situations where the trailer is significantly heavier than the tow vehicle.

The Prodigy P2 also offers a unique reverse feature that temporarily disables the boost. This is particularly useful when backing up, where aggressive braking isn't necessary. To activate this feature, you simply press the boost button continuously for five seconds with the brake pedal depressed.

Another advanced feature of the Prodigy P2 is its compatibility with electric over hydraulic braking systems. This makes it suitable for trailers with disk brakes, which are becoming increasingly common in larger boat trailers and horse trailers. The controller can be easily switched between standard electric brakes and electric over hydraulic systems through a simple setting change.

The LED digital display on the Prodigy P2 is easy to read and provides real-time information about your braking activity. It shows voltage output to the trailer brakes and connection status, allowing you to monitor your system's performance at a glance.

Pros and Cons

Pricing

The Tekonsha Prodigy P2 is positioned as a premium trailer brake controller, and its pricing reflects its advanced features and capabilities. While prices can vary depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions, you can generally expect to pay between $150 to $200 for this brake controller.

It's important to note that the Prodigy P2 comes with all the necessary mounting hardware for installation. Additionally, it's backed by a limited lifetime warranty, providing long-term protection for your investment.

When considering the price, remember that you may need to purchase a vehicle-specific wiring harness separately. Tekonsha offers Plug & Play wiring harnesses that are compatible with a wide range of vehicles, making installation much simpler. These harnesses typically cost around $10 to $15 and are well worth the investment for the ease of installation they provide.

While the Prodigy P2 is more expensive than basic brake controllers, its advanced features and reliability make it a worthwhile investment for those who frequently tow heavy loads or need precise control over their trailer brakes. The added safety and peace of mind it provides can be invaluable, especially when towing in challenging conditions or with heavier trailers.

In conclusion, the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 offers advanced functionality that sets it apart from entry-level and mid-range brake controllers. Its versatile mounting options, customizable boost settings, and compatibility with various braking systems make it a top choice for serious towers who demand the best in trailer brake control technology.

See our review to find out how this product makes towing easier!

Conclusion

Tekonsha's range of trailer brake controllers offers options to suit various needs and budgets. From the entry-level Voyager to the mid-range Primus IQ and the advanced Prodigy P2, each model brings unique features to enhance towing safety and control. The choice between these controllers depends on factors such as towing frequency, trailer size, and desired level of precision.

When selecting a Tekonsha brake controller, consider your specific requirements and budget. The Voyager provides basic functionality for occasional towers, while the Primus IQ offers more advanced features for regular use. For those needing top-tier performance, the Prodigy P2 stands out with its customizable settings and compatibility with various braking systems. No matter which model you choose, Tekonsha's reputation for quality ensures a reliable addition to your towing setup.

FAQ

1. What is the top-rated Tekonsha brake controller?

   • The Tekonsha Prodigy P3 electric trailer brake controller is highly regarded as the best in its class for trailer braking.

2. How should I go about selecting a trailer brake controller?

   • When choosing a trailer brake controller, consider the type of cargo you plan to tow, the frequency of your towing, and how you want the controller to integrate with your vehicle.

3. What are the key features to consider when purchasing a brake controller?

   • If you tow infrequently, a time-based brake controller, which is both effective and economical, might suffice. For those who tow more regularly or for commercial purposes, a proportional brake controller is recommended due to its reliability and precision.

4. Are Reese and Tekonsha brake controllers manufactured by the same company?

   • Yes, Reese and Tekonsha brake controllers are produced by the same company, indicating they are essentially the same in terms of manufacturing.