Chevy Silverado Trailer Brake Controller Service
TL;DR - Quick Answer:
Seeing "Service Trailer Brake System"? Start by cleaning your 7-pin connector with electrical cleaner and applying dielectric grease. If that doesn't fix it, you likely need professional diagnosis. We offer competitive pricing for diagnosis, wiring repair, and ITBC module replacement. Call (707) 584-7727 for quote.
Expert diagnosis and repair for Chevy Silverado Integrated Trailer Brake Controller (ITBC) systems. We fix the "Service Trailer Brake System" warning, replace faulty modules, repair wiring issues, and install aftermarket controllers. ASE certified technicians with GM diagnostic equipment.
"Service Trailer Brake System" warning? Don't ignore it—your trailer brakes may not work when you need them. Safe towing depends on a functioning brake controller.
What is a Silverado Trailer Brake Controller?
Factory ITBC
The Integrated Trailer Brake Controller is GM's factory-installed system that automatically applies your trailer's electric brakes in proportion to your truck's braking.
- Integrates with truck's ABS system
- Adjustable gain (brake intensity)
- Manual override for quick stops
- Standard on 2019+ LT and higher trims
Aftermarket Options
Aftermarket brake controllers like Tekonsha and Redarc offer alternative solutions, especially for older Silverados or persistent ITBC issues.
- Works on any Silverado year
- Supports electric-over-hydraulic brakes
- Often more reliable long-term
- Easy to transfer between vehicles
Why Trailer Brakes Matter for Silverado Owners
Your Silverado weighs 5,000-7,000 lbs. Add a trailer and you could be stopping 10,000-15,000+ lbs. Without functional trailer brakes, your truck's brakes alone must stop everything—dramatically increasing stopping distance and brake wear. A working brake controller is essential for safe towing.
Silverado Brake Controller Service Pricing
Transparent pricing for brake controller diagnosis and repair. We recommend starting with diagnosis to identify the exact issue before committing to repairs.
Brake Controller Diagnosis
Call for quote
Est. time: 1-2 hours
- Computer scan for codes
- 7-pin connector inspection
- Wiring continuity test
- TBPM/ITBC function test
- Detailed diagnostic report
Wiring Repair
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Est. time: 1-3 hours
- Locate wiring fault
- Repair/replace damaged wires
- 7-pin connector service
- Dielectric grease application
- System test with trailer
ITBC Module Replacement
Call for quote
Est. time: 2-4 hours
- OEM ITBC module
- Module programming
- Wiring harness inspection
- System calibration
- Full function test
Aftermarket Controller Install
Call for quote
Est. time: 1-2 hours
- Quality brake controller
- Plug-and-play harness
- Professional mounting
- Gain adjustment setup
- Test with your trailer
Silverado Brake Controller by Generation
What brake controller options your Silverado has depends on the model year. Here's the breakdown:
2019-2025 (T1XX)
Standard on most trimsController Type
Integrated Trailer Brake Controller (ITBC)
Location
Dashboard left of steering wheel
Most advanced system. 10-pin connector under dash. Common issues: moisture in 7-pin, software calibration.
Common Fault Codes:
2014-2018 (K2XX)
Optional (JL1 package)Controller Type
ITBC or Aftermarket
Location
Dashboard left of steering wheel (if equipped)
JL1 option adds factory ITBC. Without JL1, pre-wiring exists for aftermarket. Check RPO codes.
Common Fault Codes:
2007-2013 (GMT900)
Optional (JL1 package)Controller Type
ITBC or Aftermarket
Location
Dashboard, requires installation bracket
Early ITBC system. Known for moisture sensitivity. Aftermarket often more reliable.
Common Fault Codes:
1999-2006 (GMT800)
Not availableController Type
Aftermarket only
Location
Aftermarket mounting location
No factory brake controller option. Pre-wiring available on most tow packages. Easy aftermarket install.
Common Fault Codes:
Common Silverado Brake Controller Problems
These are the most common issues we see with Silverado trailer brake controllers. The GM ITBC system is notoriously sensitive to resistance and moisture issues.
"Service Trailer Brake System" Warning
HIGHPossible Causes:
- •Moisture in 7-pin connector
- •Corroded terminals
- •Faulty TBPM module
- •Wiring harness damage
- •Blown fuse
DIY Possible?
Sometimes - try cleaning connector first
Trailer Brakes Not Applying
CRITICALPossible Causes:
- •ITBC calibration lost
- •No output from controller
- •Trailer wiring issue
- •Bad ground connection
- •Module failure
DIY Possible?
Unlikely - requires diagnosis
Intermittent Brake Controller Function
HIGHPossible Causes:
- •Loose connection
- •Corroded pins
- •Damaged wire insulation
- •Moisture ingress
- •Failing module
DIY Possible?
Check connections first
Warning Appears in Wet Weather
MEDIUMPossible Causes:
- •Water in 7-pin plug
- •Corroded bumper connector
- •Damaged wire near hitch
- •Failing seal on TBPM
DIY Possible?
Yes - dry and apply dielectric grease
Brakes Apply Too Hard/Soft
MEDIUMPossible Causes:
- •Gain setting incorrect
- •Calibration needed
- •Trailer sync issue
- •Module learning reset
DIY Possible?
Yes - adjust gain setting
Controller Not Detecting Trailer
HIGHPossible Causes:
- •7-pin connector issue
- •Trailer wiring problem
- •ITBC module failure
- •Missing brake signal wire
DIY Possible?
Check trailer on another vehicle first
Silverado Brake Controller Troubleshooting Guide
Before calling us, try these steps. Many brake controller issues are caused by simple connection problems that you can fix yourself.
Check the Basics First
Before assuming the worst, verify these common issues:
- Inspect 7-pin connector for visible corrosion or debris
- Check trailer brake fuse (under hood fuse box)
- Verify trailer works on another vehicle (rules out trailer issue)
- Look for "Service Trailer Brake System" message
Clean All Connections
The GM ITBC is extremely sensitive to resistance. Clean everything:
- Disconnect 7-pin connector and spray with electrical cleaner
- Use a small brush to clean each pin
- Blow out with compressed air and let dry completely
- Apply dielectric grease to prevent future corrosion
- Check bumper connector if separate from 7-pin
Reset the System
A reset can clear temporary faults:
- Turn off vehicle and remove key
- Disconnect battery negative terminal
- Wait 30 seconds minimum
- Reconnect battery
- Start vehicle and check if warning cleared
Test Without Trailer
Determine if issue is truck or trailer:
- Disconnect trailer completely
- Start vehicle and check for warning
- If warning gone, issue is trailer or 7-pin
- If warning remains, issue is in truck wiring or ITBC
When to Call a Professional
Some issues require proper diagnosis:
- Warning persists after cleaning and reset
- No output from controller when tested
- Multiple fault codes stored
- Intermittent issues that won't reproduce
- Wiring damage suspected but can't locate
Tried Everything? We Can Help.
If troubleshooting didn't solve it, you need professional diagnosis. We have GM-compatible scan tools that read ITBC-specific codes and can pinpoint the exact issue.
Call for Diagnosis: (707) 584-7727Silverado Brake Controller Service in Sonoma County
We service Chevy Silverados from across Sonoma County. Whether you're towing wine barrels, boats, or RVs, we'll get your trailer brakes working right.
Silverado Brake Controller FAQ
Common questions about Chevy Silverado trailer brake controllers, answered by our technicians.
Does my Chevy Silverado have a built-in trailer brake controller?
It depends on your model year and trim level. 2019-2025 Silverados have the Integrated Trailer Brake Controller (ITBC) standard on most trims (LT and above). 2007-2018 models had it as an option (RPO code JL1). 1999-2006 Silverados don't have a factory option—you'll need an aftermarket controller. Check your window sticker or look for the brake controller knob/display left of the steering wheel.
How do I fix 'Service Trailer Brake System' on my Silverado?
Start with the most common causes: 1) Disconnect and inspect your 7-pin trailer connector for corrosion or moisture—clean with electrical cleaner and apply dielectric grease. 2) Check the trailer brake fuse (location varies by year—usually under hood fuse box). 3) Try resetting by disconnecting the battery for 30 seconds. If the warning persists, professional diagnosis is needed—the ITBC system is sensitive to resistance issues. Call us at (707) 584-7727.
Where is the trailer brake controller fuse on a Chevy Silverado?
On 2019-2025 Silverados, the trailer brake fuse is in the under-hood fuse box—look for 'TBC' or 'Trailer' labeled fuse (typically 20A or 30A). On 2014-2018 models, it's also under hood. On 2007-2013 Silverados, check both under-hood and the instrument panel fuse box. Your owner's manual has the exact location and fuse number for your specific year.
Can I install an aftermarket brake controller if I have factory ITBC?
Yes, but you'll need to bypass the factory system. Tekonsha has a specific technical bulletin for this. When you install an aftermarket controller, the factory ITBC will be disabled. Many owners do this if they have persistent ITBC problems or need features the factory system doesn't offer. Note: Electric-over-hydraulic trailer brakes require an aftermarket controller—the factory ITBC doesn't support them.
Why does my Silverado brake controller work sometimes but not others?
Intermittent brake controller issues are usually caused by: 1) Corroded or loose connections at the 7-pin connector—common after rain or car washes. 2) A damaged wire that makes contact only sometimes. 3) A failing ITBC module that works when cool but fails when hot. The GM ITBC is very sensitive to resistance—even minor corrosion can cause intermittent faults. Clean all connections and apply dielectric grease as a first step.
How much does it cost to fix Silverado trailer brake controller?
Costs vary by the actual problem: Simple fixes (cleaning connectors, replacing fuse) may have minimal cost. More complex repairs like wiring or module replacement vary based on the specific issue and parts required. We recommend professional diagnosis first to identify the exact issue before committing to repairs. Call (707) 584-7727 for a detailed quote specific to your Silverado's needs.
What does ITBC mean on Chevy Silverado?
ITBC stands for Integrated Trailer Brake Controller. It's GM's factory-installed electronic trailer brake system that automatically applies your trailer's electric brakes in proportion to vehicle braking. The system includes the controller module, wiring harness, 7-pin connector, and integration with the truck's ABS system. It's controlled via buttons/knob on the dash and displays brake gain and manual override options.
My Silverado trailer brakes worked fine, then stopped. What happened?
Sudden failure usually indicates: 1) Blown fuse—check trailer brake fuse first. 2) Connector issue—something disconnected or corroded. 3) Module failure—the TBPM (Trailer Brake Power Module) can fail without warning. 4) Water intrusion—if it happened after rain or washing, moisture got into the system. If the warning light is on, there's likely a code stored that will pinpoint the issue. We can diagnose quickly with our GM scan tool.
Is Tekonsha or Redarc better than factory Silverado brake controller?
It depends on your needs. Factory ITBC advantages: seamless integration, no installation needed, works with truck's ABS. Aftermarket advantages: often more reliable long-term, adjustable features, works with all trailer types including electric-over-hydraulic. If you have persistent ITBC problems, a quality aftermarket controller like Tekonsha Prodigy P3 or Redarc Tow-Pro can be more reliable. We install both and can recommend based on your towing habits.
Can you program a used ITBC module for my Silverado?
Yes, but it requires dealer-level programming. The ITBC module must be programmed to your specific VIN and calibrated to your truck's ABS system. We have GM-compatible diagnostic equipment that can program used or new ITBC modules. However, used modules may have the same issues as your original—we generally recommend new OEM modules for reliability.
Get Your Silverado Trailer Brakes Working Right
Same-day brake controller diagnosis. Expert ITBC repair and aftermarket installation. ASE certified technicians who understand towing. Serving Sonoma County since 1989.