Picked up our tow vehicle - thoughts on brake controller?

[jkordzi]

Today we took the second step (after earlier putting a deposit on a 5.0TA) in plotting our escape plan: We picked up a 2017 GMC Canyon SLT. Used with 1,700 miles but essentially new. It's a gas powered model and seems to have a lot of power. Since it doesn't have a factory brake controller, I will either have Trademasters install it or just do it myself before making the trip to BC in April. I'm still looking into retrofitting the original factory installed one, but in lieu of that, GM Parts offers this one as an option: https://www.gmpartsonline.net/oem-pa...bC12Ni1nYXM%3D
Anyone have any experience in either retrofitting the factory GM brake controller in the Colorado or Canyon or in installing the one in the link above?

[thiggins]

The tekonsha prodigy proportional controllers are considered some of the best. I've had great performance from ours in previous vehicles. If you have the factory wiring in place, they can usually provide a plug-and-play harness for you.

https://www.etrailer.com/bc-2017_GMC_Canyon.htm

[Kingbiscuit]

A couple of hours ago, I ordered the tekonsha prodigy from etrailer.com along with the plug and play harness for our Nissan NV 3500 van.

Etrailer has always been great to work with.

[steve dunham]

Normally the factory IBC is integrated in with the vehicle's on board computer , abs brake system , traction control and EVIC (Dash Display )
The aftermarket brake controller is not. I would find out which controller GM uses or ask a dealer , it may be possible to tie it into the on board computer.
The dealer normally can integrate your brake controller to the vehicle's computer system.
One nice thing with the IBC is if your trailer becomes unplugged you get a warning light on your dash.

** I am NOT saying that an after market brake controller will not work or stop your trailer only that IMHO , the IBC works better and is safer **

[rbryan4]

I'd agree with Steve. If the integrated controller is anything like the one on my F150, definitely go with the OEM integrated one vs an aftermarket. Main reason is the integration with the dash electronics of the truck.

One caveat is, you may not be able to install it yourself. The integrated ones usually require programming by a dealer in order to function with the vehicle's electronics and dash displays.

[jkordzi]

Thought I'd update this. I installed a Curt controller, which is a GMC accessory: https://accessories.gmc.com/product/...tegoryId=12007. Very happy with it and it was easy to install as GMC has wiring stubbed off behind the drivers side kick panel for it. I typically keep both adjustments in the middle of their ranges and it works very well.

[Chotch]

Originally Posted by rbryan4

I'd agree with Steve. If the integrated controller is anything like the one on my F150, definitely go with the OEM integrated one vs an aftermarket. Main reason is the integration with the dash electronics of the truck.

One caveat is, you may not be able to install it yourself. The integrated ones usually require programming by a dealer in order to function with the vehicle's electronics and dash displays.

Dealer installed mine, in and out in 45 minutes, cost was included in the deal when I bought truck.