kehyler

Hi All,

On the build and price, for a 2018 Ford XL with a 2.7 ecoboost tow package, it does not include a trailer brake controller. Ford wants $275 for the OEM one. Isn't that kind of a rip-off given that there are decent after market ones for less than half of that? Is there anything wrong (like wiring not in-place) if one were to forgo the factory trailer brake controller and then just buy one afterwards?

-kehyler

Hoss10

I don't think after market BC will show gain on the productivity screen like the OEM one, The factory unit was a no brainer for me.

kehyler

Doesn't the gain show on the screen of some aftermarket ones? The reason I ask is that I am trying to keep prices as low as I can.

kurt1305

You can get the OEM controller for $100 on ebay. It will require Forscan or a trip to the dealer to enable it.

Ricktwuhk

No.

Nexoidian

I just ordered my from a Ford dealer for my 2018. $88 for factory makes way more sense than aftermarket

wchain

Make sure you have the right fuse box.

tmtex

I did this, except mine was 116 shipped for free on amazon

austingta

The factory unit is way better than an aftermarket. Add tow mirrors at 250.00 (they are 2000.00 as an aftermarket part) from Fairway Ford, the best place.

Sawdust102

Watch out for this, some 2018 do not have the right fuse box installed and Ford is not fixing the issue on their dime. Means you would then need to buy a brake controller, fuse box, and pay the dealer to install. If you want it, buy it with the truck.

Not sure about aftermarket controllers these days, but the oem version with adjust brake pressure based on the truck. Ie when backing up and you apply light brake pressure, the trailer brakes will not activate (we all know how annoying that is)