Deal with the towing experts when it comes to getting a brake controller installed in your vehicle. There are plenty of choices in different types of controllers, and we see plenty of newcomers getting stuck with gear that really isn't the most suitable for their setup. Get the right information up front, and make the right decision!

Brake controllers vary in functionality and price. With optional features like proportional braking, gain and boost controls, it can be hard to know what you need when you first start towing. 

The cost of brake controllers vary from about $99 to $350, generally with the price reflecting the quality and features of the unit. Considering the overall cost of the van, and vehicle, and then a few hundred dollars for the installation, going for the cheap option in a controller is really counter-productive.

The cheaper controllers tend to cause a jagging or grabbing effect when braking, and don't give you easy control in different situations – e.g. highway cruising vs town driving. The higher-end controllers have digital displays which alert you to issues like the trailer plug being disconnected, they show the current configuration settings (so you know before you take off whether the brake controller is set properly), are much easier to adjust, and can be easily changed from highway to town towing modes.

So, before you get your vehicle fitted with a brake controller, have a chat with the RV Service Centre, and ensure a lifetime of smooth towing.