Header banner
Revain logoHome Page
Ron Patel photo
1 Level
1368 Review
46 Karma

Review on πŸ”Œ Curt 51180 Proportional Brake Controller: Enhanced with Bluetooth Connectivity by Ron Patel

Revainrating 1 out of 5

Unreliable - External Accessories

Unfortunately, I had to return this Echo controller at all because I just couldn't connect the device to Bluetooth on my 2018 Chevy Colorado. I'm using an Apple iPhone version 6. In fact, after lots of reboots and retries, it connected once and the device slowed down just fine (only with a 30ft test drive straight to the parking lot and back). But a week later, when I needed it most, I couldn't connect Bluetooth to the Echo at all, and I have NO trailer brakes. At that point I said forget it and sent the unit back for a refund. I was really hoping this module would work as I think it's a brilliant idea. I didn't want to put a wired controller in my new truck. (By the way, I'm towing a 28-foot dump truck for a demonstrator vehicle.) The weird thing is that the "key" socket is on the top of the unit, but on my 2018 Chevy (as well as my old Suburban), the keyway is on the connector plug is at the bottom. This means the Echo had to be turned upside down to fit the socket. Is it important? I don't know, but it definitely put the "electronics" very close to the metal rear bumper. I don't see how the Bluetooth signal gets there reliably. It would (perhaps) make more sense if the plastic key on the Echo was reversible. I wouldn't have to rotate the truck's connector 180 degrees (even if I could) to fix an apparent design flaw. So it looks like I'm getting back to the need to install an integrated proportional braking system. But again, this is a great idea and I want it to work. Maybe he needs a flexible antenna?

Pros
  • Easy to read dashboard
Cons
  • New competitors appeared