Redarc Tow Pro Elite V3 Electric Brake Controller

Sydney Auto Installs can install a range of different brake controllers to your vehicle. We recommend the Redarc Tow Pro Elite V3 Electric Brake Controller for your 12v and 24v systems.

Do I need an electric brake controller in NSW?

Legislation in NSW states that trailers that weigh over GTM 2,000kgs must be fitted with electric brakes.

How do electric brakes work?

Electric brakes use a sensor controlled by the tow vehicle’s brake light signal. When the brakes are applied on the towing vehicle the brake controller applies brakes to the trailer by sending power down a separate circuit to the trailer brakes.

How to use electric brakes?

To use electric brakes your towing vehicle must have a electric brake controller installed. The Redarc Tow-pto Elite V3 required the module to be installed and also has a switch mounted on the dashboard so you can choose how much braking power you require manually.

Why do I need electric brakes?

The law states that trailer brakes are mandatory when the trailer GTM is over 2,000kgs. You will also require a breakaway system to ensure the trailer slows down in the event that your vehicle and towing trailer become disconnected. The electric brake system is to ensure the towing vehicle can brake safely without putting other road users in danger.

How do I install an electric brake controller?

We recommend that all brake controller installs are done by a qualified Auto Electrician. Sydney Auto Installs has over 15 year’s experience in the auto electrical industry and we can do this installation at your home. Vehicle Can Bus systems have changed the way installations on vehicles occur on our modern vehicles. The brake signal is given from the vehicle system to the electric brake controller and the brake controller applies the brakes on the trailer. In the installation process you must also ensure you are suppling the correct power supply to the brake controller and ensure you are using the correct size circuit breakers and ensure all wiring is ADR compliant.

How much does it cost to have a Redarc Tow Pro Elite V3 brake controller fitted?

The cost can vary from vehicle to vehicle and if you choose to have the additional Redarc harnesses and switch inserts. For a standard installation supply and fit of the Redarc Tow Pro Elite V3 will be $650.

Are electric brakes necessary?

Legislation in NSW states that trailers that weigh over GTM 2,000kgs must be fitted with electric brakes.

How do I choose a electric brake controller?

Electric brakes are one of your trailer’s top safety features and come installed on trailers over GTM 2,000kgs. But here’s the important piece of info: you can’t operate your trailer brakes without first installing a brake controller.

Sydney Auto Installs recommends installing the Redarc Tow Pro Elite V3 brake controller. This brake controller is one of the best on the market and is a high quality product.

Can I tow a trailer with electric brakes without a electric brake controller?

The electric brake system on the trailer can not work without an electric brake controller fitted on the vehicle.

How do Redarc electric brake controllers work?

Redarc electric brakes, like other electric brake controllers, are designed to regulate the braking force applied to a trailer's electric brakes in response to the driver's braking actions. The main function of an electric brake controller is to ensure that the trailer’s brakes apply smoothly and proportionally to the vehicle’s braking, helping to reduce wear and improve safety.

Here's a breakdown of how Redarc electric brake controllers work:

Input Signal from Tow Vehicle: When the driver presses the brake pedal in the tow vehicle, the controller receives an electrical signal (either from the brake light switch or through a built-in sensor) that indicates braking has been applied.
Proportional Control (In some models): Many Redarc controllers feature proportional braking. This means the braking force applied to the trailer is proportional to how hard the driver presses the brake pedal. For example, if the driver presses the pedal lightly, the controller will apply a smaller braking force to the trailer. If the driver presses harder, more braking force is applied to the trailer.
Adjustable Settings: Redarc controllers often have settings that allow the driver to adjust the braking sensitivity or force. This can help fine-tune the system for different load weights or driving conditions.
Signal to Trailer Brakes: Once the controller processes the signal from the tow vehicle, it sends an electrical signal to the trailer's brake magnets, activating the trailer’s braking system. The controller modulates the amount of power sent to the trailer’s brakes to match the input signal.
Feedback and Regulation: Some models (like the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite) feature a built-in accelerometer that detects the vehicle's braking force and adjusts the braking applied to the trailer accordingly. This feedback helps to apply the most appropriate amount of braking, even in emergency situations.

This process helps ensure that the trailer slows or stops in sync with the vehicle, promoting stability, and reducing the likelihood of swaying or jackknifing, especially when towing heavy loads.

How to know if a Redarc brake controller is working?

To ensure your Redarc brake controller is working properly, you can follow these steps to check its functionality:

1. Check the Display/Indicator Lights (for digital controllers)

Power On: Make sure the brake controller is powered on. Some models have an LED indicator that will light up when the controller is working.
Error Codes: Look for any error codes or warning lights on the controller’s display. Redarc controllers typically have diagnostic features that show error codes or fault indicators if there's an issue.

2. Test the Brake Response

Tow Vehicle Brakes: With the vehicle stationary, press the brake pedal and watch for a corresponding change in the brake controller’s display or lights. Some models show how much braking force is being applied.
Trailer Brakes Activation: If possible, safely observe whether the trailer's brakes are engaging. This could involve getting out of the vehicle while the brakes are on (if in a controlled environment) to listen for the trailer brakes to engage or feel the trailer pulling against the vehicle.

3. Test with a Trailer

Road Test: Hook up a trailer and take the vehicle for a short drive. Apply the vehicle’s brakes and feel for the trailer’s braking response. The trailer brakes should activate when the tow vehicle's brakes are applied.
Brake Sensitivity: Test different levels of braking (light and heavy) to ensure the controller responds accordingly by increasing or decreasing braking force on the trailer.

4. Check the Wiring and Connections

Inspect Connections: Ensure that all wiring connections between the vehicle, brake controller, and the trailer are secure and free of corrosion. A loose or damaged wire could prevent the controller from working correctly.
Brake Magnet Check: Ensure the trailer's brake magnets are functioning. If the trailer doesn’t brake properly, the issue could be with the magnets or the wiring on the trailer.

5. Use a Multimeter or Diagnostic Tool

Test Voltage: Use a multimeter to check for voltage at the brake output terminals when the brake pedal is pressed. This can tell you if the controller is sending power to the trailer's brake system.
Diagnostic Mode: Some Redarc controllers, like the Tow-Pro Elite, have a built-in diagnostic mode that you can activate to test the controller’s function. Consult the user manual for the specific steps to access this mode.

6. Listen for the “Click” (Magnetic Brake Activation)

When you apply the brakes on the tow vehicle, you should hear a faint “click” or similar sound coming from the trailer’s brake system. This sound means that the brake magnets inside the trailer are engaging.

If you’ve checked all these and the brake controller is still not responding properly, it may be time to consult the manual for specific troubleshooting steps or contact Redarc’s customer support.

What are common problems with electric trailer brakes?

There are a few common issues that can occur with electric trailer brakes, which can affect performance and safety. Here are some of the most typical problems and their potential causes:

1. Faulty Wiring/Connections

Problem: Loose or corroded wiring or connectors can disrupt the electrical signals between the tow vehicle, brake controller, and the trailer's braking system.
Symptoms: The trailer brakes may not engage at all, or you may experience intermittent braking performance.
Solution: Inspect all wiring connections for corrosion, wear, or damage. Ensure all connections are tight and secure. Pay special attention to the wiring from the brake controller to the trailer’s brake magnets.

2. Bad Grounding

Problem: A poor ground connection can cause erratic brake performance or failure to activate.
Symptoms: Electric brakes may not engage, or there may be inconsistent braking behavior.
Solution: Ensure that the trailer’s ground wire is securely attached to a clean, rust-free metal surface. Double-check the vehicle’s ground connection as well.

3. Brake Magnets Wearing Out

Problem: The brake magnets inside the trailer’s brake assembly wear out over time due to friction.
Symptoms: Poor braking response, increased stopping distances, or noisy brakes.
Solution: Inspect the brake magnets for wear or damage. If they are worn or damaged, replace them. Typically, the magnets should last many years, but they will eventually need to be replaced.

4. Controller Malfunctions

Problem: If the brake controller itself is faulty or misconfigured, it may not send the correct signals to the trailer's braking system.
Symptoms: The trailer brakes may not apply at all, or the braking force may be inconsistent or too strong.
Solution: Test the brake controller using the built-in diagnostics (if available), or try using a multimeter to check the voltage output. Recalibrate or replace the brake controller if necessary.

5. Brake Adjustment Issues

Problem: Over time, the trailer brake shoes may become misaligned or improperly adjusted.
Symptoms: Uneven braking, poor performance, or a "dragging" sensation when driving.
Solution: Check and adjust the brake shoes or drum assembly to ensure the brakes are properly aligned. Proper adjustment helps ensure that the brake pads or shoes make adequate contact with the drum for efficient braking.

6. Worn or Contaminated Brake Shoes/Pads

Problem: Like brake magnets, the brake shoes or pads on the trailer’s electric brakes can wear down or become contaminated with oil or debris.
Symptoms: The trailer brakes may produce a grinding noise or feel less effective.
Solution: Inspect the brake shoes or pads for excessive wear or contamination. Clean or replace them as needed.

7. Insufficient Brake Voltage

Problem: The brake controller may not be sending enough voltage to the trailer’s brake system.
Symptoms: The trailer’s brakes may feel weak or unresponsive.
Solution: Test the voltage output from the brake controller using a multimeter and compare it to the manufacturer’s recommended settings. Adjust the voltage output on the controller or repair faulty wiring.

8. Fried or Damaged Brake Magnets

Problem: Electric trailer brakes rely on magnets to engage the braking mechanism. These magnets can burn out or become damaged from overuse or a short circuit.
Symptoms: Complete lack of braking on the trailer, or the trailer brakes may not engage even when the vehicle’s brakes are applied.
Solution: Inspect the brake magnets for any signs of burn damage or physical wear. Replace them if necessary.

9. Brake Fluid or Grease Contamination

Problem: If the trailer uses hydraulic brakes, grease or brake fluid contamination in the braking system can lead to poor braking performance.
Symptoms: Unresponsive or weak braking, noisy brakes.
Solution: Clean out any contamination and ensure that the hydraulic brake system is functioning properly.

10. Overloaded or Under-loaded Trailer

Problem: Overloading the trailer (beyond its rated capacity) or under-loading it (not having enough weight on the brakes) can affect brake performance.
Symptoms: Poor braking response, trailer sway, or excessive wear on brake components.
Solution: Always ensure the trailer is loaded within its specified weight capacity, and distribute the load evenly.

11. Brake Controller Calibration Issues

Problem: The brake controller may need to be calibrated to match the weight of the load being carried or to ensure proper braking force.
Symptoms: The trailer brakes may feel either too weak or too strong, leading to jerking, swaying, or a rough ride.
Solution: Adjust the brake controller’s settings to match your load. Many controllers allow you to fine-tune the brake force.

12. Damaged Trailer Brake Drums

Problem: If the brake drums on the trailer are cracked, warped, or damaged, the brakes won’t work effectively.
Symptoms: Uneven or ineffective braking, or the feeling of the trailer pulling to one side.
Solution: Inspect the brake drums for any signs of damage and replace them if needed.

General Maintenance Tips:

Regularly check the trailer’s braking system, including the wiring, magnets, and shoes/pads.
Make sure the brake controller is properly calibrated to your towing setup.
Perform routine maintenance, including greasing components and checking for wear or damage, to prevent issues from arising.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to address them as soon as possible to ensure safe and effective braking performance while towing.

Download Redarc Tow Pro Elite V3 installation manual PDF

Click on the below links for videos

What is the best electric brake controller on the market?

Demonstrating the Tow Pro Elite V3 and its features

Active Calibration Guide - Tow-Pro Elite Electric Brake Controller EBRH-ACCV3

Tow-Pro Electric Trailer Brake Controllers: Built For Safety

How To Test A Tow-Pro Elite Electric Brake Controller