To Next PageTo Next PageHow to troubleshoot no trailer brakes on my curt Controller?
If you have no trailer brakes (pedal or manual), it could be due to: * A mis-wired 7-way connector. * Improper or corroded trailer wiring. * A weak or missing ground. In any of these cases, confirm the vehicle and trailer 7-way connections.
What causes reduced braking power on my curt Controller?
Reduced braking power on manual override or brake output can be caused by: * A weak or missing ground. * Improper max power or sensitivity settings. * Improper or corroded trailer wiring. Confirm vehicle and trailer 7-way connections. Also, check Bluetooth and application settings and increase max power or sensitivity settings.
Why are my trailer brakes on all the time with my curt Controller?
If the trailer brakes are on all the time and the LED is red, it's likely due to a mis-wired 7-way trailer connector. Confirm the vehicle and trailer 7-way connections.
Why is my curt Controller app signaling 'overload'?
If your app signals 'overload', it means the trailer brakes are overloaded. You should reconnect the trailer connector, confirm the vehicle's 7-way connections and wiring, and check the trailer brake wiring for short circuits.
What to do if my curt ECHO 51190 shows a flashing red LED?
A flashing red LED on your CURT Controller indicates a few potential issues: * There might be contamination in the trailer plug socket, so check for a clean and dry trailer plug. * There could be a short in the trailer brake wiring, requiring you to locate and correct the short. * It might be an accelerometer error; try unplugging the brake controller and plugging it back in. * There might be a short or overload in the trailer brakes, so troubleshoot the trailer brake circuit per the brake manufacturer's instructions.
How to fix a curt Controller app signaling 'low voltage'?
If the app signals 'low voltage', the cause is likely low battery voltage. Check the vehicle battery and replace it if needed. Also, confirm the vehicle's 7-way connections and wiring.
Why won't my curt ECHO 51190 connect to mobile devices?
If you're unable to connect to mobile devices, several factors could be at play. First, check the Echo LED status for power and ensure there's no issue with power to the brake controller or ground on the vehicle's 7-way. Input the PIN from the label or quick reference card. Enable Bluetooth or grant necessary permissions. Ensure your smartphone is compatible. If issues persist, select the trailer profile, tap the Echo device name, and then tap the trash can icon to remove it. In your OS settings, go to Bluetooth connections and 'forget the device'.
What to do if my curt ECHO 51190 has no response on manual override?
If there's no response on manual override or brake output, it could be due to a mis-wired 7-way connector, improper or corroded trailer wiring, no or intermittent power to the controller, a weak or missing ground, or a wireless connectivity error. Confirm vehicle and trailer 7-way connections. Also, check Bluetooth and application settings.
What to do if curt ECHO 51190 has no trailer brakes and app signals disconnect?
If you have no trailer brakes (pedal or manual) and the app signals 'disconnect', it indicates a loss of trailer connection, potentially due to an unplugged connector or bad wiring. Confirm the vehicle and trailer 7-way connections.
Why is the LED on my curt Controller not lighting up?
If the LED does not light up, the cause may be no power to the brake controller or no ground on the vehicle's 7-way. Check the vehicle power and ground wiring. Some vehicles require a trailer to activate 7-way power. If a trailer is not available, the CURT 7-way tester #58272 may be used to complete setup / troubleshoot.
Guides users on how to download and install the necessary mobile application for the device.
Details the process for enabling Bluetooth and pairing the mobile device with the Echo® brake controller.
Describes the steps to create and save new trailer profiles in the mobile app.
Explains how to switch between and activate different saved trailer profiles.
Outlines the procedure for editing or removing existing trailer profiles.
Explains how to use the manual brake activation feature via the mobile app.
Describes the visual indicator for current brake output levels displayed in the app.
How to adjust the maximum power level applied to the trailer brakes.
How to adjust the responsiveness and aggressiveness of the trailer brakes.
Explains how vehicle hazard lights can affect trailer brake pulsing.
The CURT Echo® Under-Dash Trailer Brake Controller is a sophisticated device designed to manage trailer braking systems, enhancing safety and control while towing. This installation manual provides comprehensive instructions for setting up, configuring, and maintaining the device, ensuring optimal performance.
The Echo® is an electronic trailer brake controller that operates on 12-volt negative ground systems. Its primary function is to apply trailer brakes proportionally to the tow vehicle's braking action, or manually when desired. The device connects to the tow vehicle's electrical system and the trailer's brake system, allowing for seamless integration and control. It utilizes Bluetooth technology to connect with a mobile application, 'OneControl® Auto', which serves as the primary interface for setup, adjustments, and monitoring. This under-dash module is designed to be securely mounted within the tow vehicle, with its orientation not affecting performance.
The brake controller manages the output of power to the trailer brakes, allowing for adjustments to both the maximum output and sensitivity. The maximum output determines the highest level of power available to the trailer brakes during braking, while sensitivity adjusts the aggressiveness of the trailer's braking response. These settings are crucial for achieving smooth, firm stops under various load and road conditions.
A key feature of the Echo® is its manual brake activation. By pressing and holding an orange button within the mobile app, the user can manually apply the trailer brakes. This is particularly useful in situations where a slow reduction in speed is desired, independent of the tow vehicle's brakes. The app provides a visual indicator, an orange outer ring, to show the current brake output level during manual activation.
The device also incorporates safety features such as brake light activation. Depending on the switch setting, the tow vehicle and trailer brake lights can be activated when manual control is actuated, increasing visibility. Additionally, it can manage trailer brake response when the vehicle's hazard lights are active, preventing pulsing brake output.
The Echo® brake controller is operated primarily through the 'OneControl® Auto' mobile application, available for Apple and Android devices. After initial installation and wiring, the device pairs with the smartphone via Bluetooth. The pairing process requires enabling Bluetooth on the mobile device and entering a unique six-digit PIN found on the controller unit or quick reference card. It's important to note that pairing should occur within the app, not through the smartphone's Bluetooth settings menu.
Once paired, the app guides the user through an initial setup process, including registration and agreement to end-user terms. The core of the app's functionality revolves around 'Controller Profiles'. Users can create and save multiple profiles for different vehicles, trailers, and load conditions. Each profile allows for customization of vehicle and trailer descriptions. These profiles can be easily switched by swiping left or right on the home screen, and the active profile is displayed prominently.
Within an active profile, users can access and adjust the key settings: Max Output and Sensitivity Level. These adjustments are made by tapping the respective buttons in the app and using '+' or '−' buttons to increase or decrease values. It is recommended to perform these adjustments during a test drive in a safe environment, such as a parking lot, to achieve optimal braking performance. The app also features a toggle for 'Vehicle Hazard Lights' to prevent pulsing brake output when the tow vehicle's hazard lights are active.
The device's status is communicated through a single LED indicator on top of the unit. Different colors and flashing patterns signify various states, such as device not paired (flashing blue), device paired (solid blue), calibrating (flashing yellow), wiring error (flashing red), hardware fault (solid red), or no power (no light on). This LED provides quick visual feedback on the controller's operational status.
For manual control, the unit features two small switches located at the front. One switch controls the brake light activation feature, allowing users to turn it 'ON' or 'OFF'. The other switch controls the level of output available to the trailer brakes when using manual control, either limiting it to the output control setting ('ON' position) or allowing 100% output ('OFF' position). These switches can be adjusted using a small pointed tool.
Proper installation and wiring are crucial for the long-term reliability and performance of the Echo® brake controller. The manual emphasizes disconnecting the tow vehicle's negative battery terminal before installation and mounting the 30-amp, auto-reset circuit breaker as close to the battery as possible. Wires should be routed through existing grommets or protected with silicone sealant to prevent damage from sharp edges.
The main module must be mounted firmly in place to prevent improper operation or brake failure. While the orientation of the module does not matter, it should be installed in a location that allows for easy access for troubleshooting, even if out of sight. The provided adhesive pad and zip-ties are used for secure mounting.
Regular checks of the wiring connections are important. The manual provides a detailed wiring diagram and instructions for connecting the device to the tow vehicle's battery, stoplight switch, and trailer connector. It warns against reversing black and white wire connections, as this can damage the unit.
The mobile application itself serves as a maintenance tool by providing real-time status updates and error notifications. The LED status indicator on the device also helps in quickly diagnosing issues such as wiring errors, hardware faults, or connectivity problems. The troubleshooting guide in the manual offers solutions for common issues based on the LED status and app signals, such as 'low voltage' or 'overload'.
In case of connectivity issues, the manual advises checking Bluetooth settings, granting location permissions to the app, and ensuring the correct PIN is entered. If the device cannot connect due to an incorrect or missing PIN, contacting CURT product support with the serial number is recommended.
The manual also stresses the importance of re-adjusting output and sensitivity settings whenever there are significant changes in weather, road conditions, trailer weight, or towing setup. This proactive adjustment ensures consistent and safe braking performance. Testing all trailer lights while the trailer is plugged into the Echo® is also a recommended pre-driving check.
Finally, the product registration process on curtmfg.com/registration allows users to provide feedback, which helps in improving future products and ensures access to warranty support. Sharing experiences and leaving reviews on curtmfg.com/51190 also contributes to the community and product development.
General| Brake Type | Electric |
|---|---|
| Operating Voltage | 12V |
| Installation | Plug-and-play |
| Vehicle Connector | 7-way RV Blade |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Yes |
| Smartphone App Control | Yes |
| Braking Modes | Proportional |
| Diagnostics | Yes |
| Overload Protection | Yes |
| Short Circuit Protection | Yes |
| Connector Type | 7-way RV Blade |
| Color | Black |
| Material | Plastic |
| Product Type | Brake Controller |
| Trailer Connector | 7-way |
| Current Rating | Up to 3 Axles |
| Wire Gauge | Not applicable |
