I have a 2020 Silverado 1500 LT with full towing package, but not the brake controller. I also have the wiring harness for the brake controller (came with the brand new truck). I have been doing a ton of searching to see if the factory brake controller can be installed and have gotten mixed answers. I figured that if I have everything else for towing, including the harness, couldn't I just have the service install a factory one for me?

 

imo the factory controller is the way to go. it incorporates sway control using the vehicle stability and antilock brake system. if you have ever had a trailer start swaying...you know how dangerous this can be. the factory unit uses the stability system yaw sensor to detect sawy and will apply the correct front wheel brake to counteract the sway. aftermarket units cannot do this. Call the dealer and provide your vin. they can tell you if the factory unit is an accessory you can add.

 

I looked into this when I went looking for a new truck in Dec/Jan.... When I went looking through all the different forums on this subject, the answer always came up that it would be extremely difficult to do this... even having the dealer do this...
The electrical connection is behind the dash... the external part for the dash can be obtained.... but all the integration with the onboard computers and software is the issue... and those that 'went before us' found out that dealers were unwilling/unable to do what was needed, mainly the software update integration, especially the trailering software for sway control and all the other stuff..
In the end, they ended up having to buy an aftermarket brake controller....

This is why I had to focus on getting it as part of my truck when I bought it.
Sorry for the news...
Larry

 

i worked for dodge and can say its an easy add onfor fca vehicles. the dealer adds the option to the build, the controller is installed in the dash...the truck is programmed....done. vehicles today are CAN BUSSED so adding a module can be easy if the vehicle is built to add the option. If it is not built to add the option...you can't add it.

gm service information has an accessory add on link that shows every buildable option the dealer can add. provide the dealer parts dept your vin and they can find out if you build can add the option. Just because swofford build can't...doesn't mean your build can't. You may have a different build.

 

Tech 2 - (not trying to argue or challenge your knowledge, so please don't take offense)... The OEM brake controller system is the same system as was in earlier chevy products, right? I thought I saw a reply you put on a Suburban posting on this forum saying that it couldn't be done and there were GM service bulletins against that...as it could turn the truck into a brick....maybe there is another Tech2 out there?) anyway, if a search is made on 'gm service bulletin on adding an oem brake controller' is done, it turns up the referenced comment... One of other area that has also gone through a number of discussions on this topic is here https://www.gm-trucks.com/forums/top...ke-controller/.
In the end, I just want to get the right information to the original posting person... and if I am wrong, I am wrong...
Larry

 

i don't work for gm anymore so i can't say for sure. Its a dynamic industry; things change all the time. the only way to know for sure is to check with a dealer parts department with each individual build. when i was there; certain build codes allowed for added options.

its easy money for all manufacturers to make dealer installed options. They don't like leaving money on the table for aftermarket companies.