Ford F-150 Oem Trailer Brake Controller Installation and Programming (2015+)

In this video I show the steps and procedures necessary to install and program a OEM trailer brake controller for a Ford F-150. Not only will you need to install the trailer brake controller into the dash, but you will either need to program the Ipc using ford forscan or take your truck to the dealer so they can program and activate it. Make sure to follow the links in the description below for the parts are used in this video. I hope this video helps you out. If it does please like and subscribe. Thanks for watching
ELM327 CABLE
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OEM trailler brake controller 15+
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f-150 must do simple mods
AMP Research PowerStep Electric Running Boards
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Door Handles Covers
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Carbon Fiber Central Control Storage Frame Trim
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low profile Antenna
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Husky floor mats
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Black Wheel Well Guards
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FORScan website:
forscan.org/download.html
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[@450rmaniac]

I teared up a little over this tutorial. So well done, I had no questions at the end.

[@rolyfisher9137]

Best video I found. Great procedure and simply explained and demonstrated. I liked how I could pause your video and complete each step on Forscan before continuing. Worked the first time on my 2016 F250 Super Duty (plain Jane, no toys, no power anything, it's a real truck)

[@jpitt916]

So happy you included the ForScan stuff because I didn't have to search a forum for the answer! Perfect tutorial, thank you.

[@juantorres3524]

Just used this tutorial to easily install a brake controller on my 2015 F150. I did have the two entries to enable using my Brake Controller. I also didn't have a small ratchet so I had to pop the dash oard speaker off, and remove that whole section to remove the radio panel. Thank you for this video.

[@bradjohnson9671]

Aaron, a bit of a late comer here. I just installed the brake controller. Easy Peazy. Took about 20 min start t finish. Took longer waiting for the temp key for Forscan. One thing, I wasn't prompted for the Sync version and it appears there are 3 settings under the IPC heading, one for the Trailer Brake Controller Gain Setting, one for Trailer Brake Control Module and one labeled Trailer Brake Control Module. I set the first two to enabled and left the Trailer Brake Control Module alone for now as I wasn't sure what it did. and all the other videos didn't mention it. Great video and presentation. I'm not your average shade tree mechanic (a TON of experience since I was a kid) and I'm very PC savy and also know my way around OBDC2 more than most. This was a REAL easy install and WAY cheaper than having the dealer do it. Super informative video, well done..

[@gmill2316]

Thank you!!! This was so easy and saved me 200$. I hate paying a dealership money to do something I can do at home. I appreciate you making this video.

[@yanuriroschev7270]

Excellent video! I installed my trailer controller on my 2019 F-150 following your instructions. Thanks very much for the walk through....you made it a breeze!

[@old-patriot4509]

Really EXCELLENT video Aaron! You covered everything necessary. No useless fluff - just get in, and get it done. I salute you! I will be doing this as soon as my brake controller arrives. Nice to see someone else appreciates ForScan too. I use the BT dongle instead of the wired one. So far; I have permanently shut off auto start/stop, added Hill Descent Control, enabled windows up/down from key fob, Bambi mode, powerpoint delay, radio on without key, and probably a few others to my 2015 XLT. Love ForScan... UPDATE: Finished installing the hardware today. No issues there. Because of your video, I knew exactly how to take the dash apart! Only problem I had was my old Windows laptop with Forscan on it is now a Linux laptop. Didn't want to install WINE, or fiddle with passing Bluetooth through to a Windows Virtual Machine. Finally ended up using a Windows tablet I bought years ago, specifically for Forscan, but never used because the display was too small to read. Had to put on my best reading glasses, and suck it up... Had it all going in a couple minutes... Thanks!!

[@AaronHinesAuto]

That’s awesome, love the capabilities forscan has. Thank you!

[@jeffrudd5781]

I used FORscan on another car before and I blindly hit yes when it asked to load previous configuration and I wasn't prompted to switch from HS CAN to MS CAN and it did not load the Instrument Panel Control IPC module. I restarted the software, hit no when prompted to load previous config, then it reads your current vehicle modules, and will prompt you to switch to MS CAN, it then read and made IPC available to edit. I was adding a trailer brake controller. Good video, thanks.

[@cardmarshall9589]

Great instructions! The only snag I ran into with the free FORscan beta download was that I was unable to play the IPC mobile configuration to enable the new trailer brake until I purchased the extended license. 1 year for $10, they emailed me the activation code right away and I was back in business. Trailer brake install on my 2018 F-150 successful!

[@thetxwildchild]

All these videos and nobody tells you to buy the license.... I have been trying to get it to work forever.

[@mickdouglas3062]

Thanks, the video was really helpful. For my 2020 XL I didn't remove the part under the steering wheel or the 7mm in the foot well. I did receive the two 7mm holding the top tray on before prying it up.

[@user-dc3pq1rw1i]

Nevermind, I had to get the extended license for the ForScan Module. I just did the free 2 month trial and it is now working. Thanks

[@VZLiving]

Probably one of the best diy vid. So easy and will save you so much money when you do it at home.

[@dustinlargin6769]

I wish everyone made tutorials like you, I’m about to tear into mine

[@catesg]

Great video. I used it once for installation of my trailer brake and then more recently for the install of my Panavision mount to hold my cellphone (required removal of the radio/display unit). Thanks!

[@r6steve1]

just an FYI, you have to have the extended license to (forscan) to do this. it's free for 2 months but it takes a couple hours atleast for them you email you the key. this is the point I'm at so well see how it goes. thanks for the video extremely helpful.

[@mrnavy2]

I don't have a F150 yet but plan to purchase one the end of this year. Excellent Video. Just what I was looking for.

[@brianl3939]

I don’t comment as often as I should but this was definitely worth it! Thank you, excellent video!

[@joshuasquire3141]

Thanks Aaron! I just installed this on my new to me 2017 F150 XLT. I haven't ever done anything on vehicles other than oil changes and brake pads but this video made it so easy.

[@BuenosPachos]

Did you have the 4 pin or the 7 pin connector at the hitch? If a 4 pin, did you have to change to a 7 and if so, were all the appropriate wires there?

[@jamesinsteamboat]

Thanks for the great video. Installed the $90 OEM controller in under an hour. My '18 XLT with 4" screen and the basic tow package just needed the 30A fuse put in the fuse box in slot 24. Then I needed the extended license for forscan which took about an hour to get the free version.

[@KTMotorsports99]

Which Forscan did you download?

[@jamesinsteamboat]

@@KTMotorsports99 I don't remember there being an option. Just go to the forscan website and look for downloads. I started with the free trial but it told me I needed the extended license to actually make changes to the truck. You have to fill out a form to get the free extended license which gets emailed to you

[@exshire3037]

I just completed this on my 2013 F-150. Thank you so much for this video.

[@rickadkisson1263]

Thanks for the clear and informative video. I followed it to install a controller on my 2016, F150, 4X4, with a column shifter. In retrospect, I wouldn't have needed to take the parts off below the steering wheel. I was able to pull the existing cubby hole piece out to disconnect the wires and connect them to the controller. Accessing the plug seems to be the only reason to remove those pieces.

[@BuenosPachos]

Did you have the 4 pin or the 7 pin connector at the hitch? If a 4 pin, did you have to change to a 7 and if so, were all the appropriate wires there?+

[@patrogers8912]

You make it look easier Thanks I’ll be trying this on my new ‘19

[@71FordGator]

Great video! The only discrepancy was the 4 bolts holding my plate on were 10 mm and had Blue loctite on them so they were a little snug to get out. You couldnt have made it any easier, Thank You

[@g2bold174]

This type of operation usually ends up sending me to the insane asylum by the time I figure it out however in this case using your tutorial I was able to pull this off without any real issues. Did the whole install and enabling start to finish..thanks

[@mikek2824]

So first thing he doesn't explain is ypu need to register and get ypur account activated it takes like a half hr! But once that's complete I followed the steps and it worked perfect!! Thank you for saving me $200!!! Yes 200 bucks to have the dealer flash your truck!! This was the only video and vest video on KZbin!!

[@rickbragg9007]

I know it’s an old video but it’s perfect, matches my 2019 F150 exactly, even the colors. Much better than the $200 service manual.

[@silence_video]

I watched the vid, bought the parts and Forscan. Super easy. Thanks for the video!

[@guyduke9821]

Did you have to pay for the ForScan?

[@mattb.5399]

I used this video last night for the install and worked out well. I just ordered the cord too since they want $50 plus at the dealership to code it. Figured I could use the cord for some other applications and see what else I can do with it. I am not technical at all on coding but this looked easy enough

[@AaronHinesAuto]

Glad it worked!

[@old-patriot4509]

Download the ForScan spreadsheet! There are literally hundreds of mods you can do. I added Hill Descent Control to mine (for the cost of a $6 OEM dash switch). I can also now open/close windows from my key fob! Add 'bambi mode' so fogs stay on with high beams, etc. The most important mod (the first one I did) was to permanently get rid of the stupid auto start/stop!!! No more pushing the switch every time - it's GONE forever now.

[@pizzadeliveryboy10]

old-patriot do you have a link to this sheet?

[@Dinero2005]

Great video! Absolutely perfect step by step description. Thank you!

[@GuyAnthonyDeMarco]

Good video walkthrough, thanks for posting it.

[@Buck_A_Near]

awesome video, really simple explanations. one thing I'm wondering is where the 30amps fuse that came with the control module goes

[@mrpabs5864]

Holly crap man you just saved me $600 dollars, thank you so much.

[@mrpabs5864]

@The Gooberment-Sucks The first month is free, I did buy the the lifetime license though, is only $50. Totally worth the money, us is only matter of time before they raise the price and require subscription.

[@collinhepplewhite9660]

Awesome video man. I did have to also enable the trailer brake controller module on my 16’ XL but besides that 10/10!

[@kenmiller8499]

Excellent video!! Thanks for taking the time to produce it.

[@timrobinson97]

Aaron, thank you for this video. I was able to use it to program my controller for my 2018 F150.

[@cjg6064]

What trim level do you have on your 2018? I'm curious if I have the ability to do this on my STX RWD.

[@timrobinson97]

@@cjg6064 Mine is an XLT

[@brandobecerro]

Damn. Ford really made it easy to plug and play add ons. Only thing that sucks is you gotta hook up the truck to a ford scanner to get it to recognize it. I’m gonna get this installed as well as the kicker sub.

[@ericemde8091]

Aaron, et al. All of the videos I have seen have you tearing about your dash and other parts. After thinking about it and using two smaller flat blade screwdrivers covered with a light cloth, I was able to just press down on the top center of the cubby hole blank and pry it out. From there you can pull everything out the front and plug in your controller. Total time 15 minutes. No major disassembly required. This should work for almost any Ford vehicle. The rest of the video to program the OEM unit is outstanding.

[@JuanRamirez-hk8sf]

Eric Emde any chance you have a video of this technique?

[@Thorbert888]

@@JuanRamirez-hk8sf how do I start it

[@joegenshlea6827]

Awesome video. Thank you. Ordering parts now from your link.

[@AaronHinesAuto]

Thanks for the support!

[@brianjohnson4086]

Well done. Great tutorial before doing mine. Thanks!

[@Coyote-wm5op]

Mine was already installed but this video was still informative what it’s for 👍

[@richardkeesling1836]

Really appreciate this video, made installation easy. I have had some difficulty "activating" it with Forscan. The menu I get has slightly different options and doesn't include the trailer brake controller. Anyone else done this recently and have a work around or do I just need to go to Ford?

[@mrjon1985]

"We have gainabilty " Thanks, very helpful video.

[@brixtondamian2638]

i guess Im quite off topic but does anyone know a good site to watch newly released tv shows online?

[@giovannicharlie9652]

@Brixton Damian try flixzone. You can find it on google =)

[@jaxenjulius5903]

@Brixton Damian lately I have been using Flixzone. You can find it on google =)

[@jlhorn3647]

I installed the controller and used forscan. I have gain but when i plug in trailer the dash readout says no trailer connected. I can make the brakes work some by pushing the slide but brakes only work just before a stop then lock up . 2015 xlt f150 4x4. Any suggestions for a fix?

[@jasonhales9620]

Excellent directions. Thanks!

[@TacticalExodus]

Quick and simple. Thanks!

[@billymc2681]

Great video! I used it to install mine.

[@FiliSuperDuty]

My 2016 F150 has the tree shifter and center counsel with the cup holders that but right up to the dash (there is no exposed carpet like the truck you have in this video). You allude to this toward the beginning of your video and mention that the cup holder will have to come out, too. How does this change the process with this extra step? Can you please advise?

[@cxlerma]

Thank you!! Perfectly explained!!!

[@kimberlyk.8569]

Nicely done. Thank you. Very helpful.

[@shanewaite669]

Just completed this last night with what I thought was no issues. Oddly the ambient temperature is gone from the top of my touch screen now??? Any suggestions?

[@UplandBrothers]

Awesome video!! Thank you so much. It all worked out.

[@Tachtronics]

Worked like a charm. I used a j2534 in case anyone is wondering if that will work

[@billeaster7031]

Great video, and was great to help me install the part and turn it on, however, my truck threw a fault. After a night of sleep, i decided to check the fuse. It was not installed.

[@freeshipping4569]

That's what I forgot!!!

[@POLSKA1033]

Great video, but save some time by not removing the metal bracket under the Steering wheel, you can just plug the plug thru the hole the controller goes in.

[@claudiamartinez3420]

How to you know which scan to choose? The other option on the brakes is disabled? What is that for?

[@Tazman333]

you don't have to take the panels under the steering wheel loose. after you get the face off the vent right of the steering wheel you can just pull the cup insert out and unplug the connector from the back of it. This cup only is there to hold the connector for future use.

[@Jeff-sm1ow]

I checked position 24 in my fuse box and I have pins but no fuse. What size fuse is needed to run the break controller? This was mentioned a an issue in other videos of this topic. Any comments about not having the pins in the fuse box as some 2018's apparently have this issue. Also for what is worth, your video, presentation is extremely easy to watch and very well edited. Your communication, sound and directions are clear concise with no excess or droning on and on like so many others. Thank you.

[@craig84074]

My F150 was pinned as well, but no fuse. I bought a 25 amp J case fuse and it worked fine. Heard from another video online that you should put a 25 amp in.

[@bryanacred3421]

The OEM module I bought came with a 30 fuse.

[@miguelzaratejr.8297]

On my 2020 xlt CC the bolts were 7mm and 10mm. I felt like you could get away with not undoing the dash as I was able to pull out the blank then unplug the harness. Might make this even easier yo do.

[@cuffem311]

Great video! Will this control the after market 7 way plug?

[@chrismiller6579]

2016 F-150 SuperCrew with towing package. This is a terrific guide. I replaced my trailer brake controller and I have interesting results. When I activate the trailer brake control alone, I get 12 volts on the appropriate spade on the connector; when I use the pedal alone, I get 1.5 volts. I don't think this can be a ForScan setting, since I have "gainability". What do you suggest as my next troubleshooting step? Thanks for the help

[@crisnauta2555]

I bought an aftermarket controller, installed it myself and had it programmed by the local dealer. Worked great until I changed the trailer wiring connector(incorrectly) and now the blue wire that controls the brakes is always hot/12V and the lead that charges the trailer emergency brake battery has nothing. Pretty sure I fried the controller although none of the fuses blew. Question, If I buy another controller, will the truck recognize it or will have to be programmed like the first one? 2020 Ford F150 with tow package.

[@douglas51872]

Great video! Saved me hours, im sure.

[@blainemaestas88]

Great video. I bought a Ford brake controller from Amazon for roughly $100. The title claimed to be "OEM" and mentioned a part number. Using this video, I installed the "OEM" brake controller. I took my truck to the dealership to have the programming "flashed". The dealership doesn't use "Forscan", they use a Ford program that has to search for a part number before activating that specific part. The dealership was unable to detect my "OEM" brake controller so I ordered an aftermarket Reese brake controller with an adapting cord for my 2015 F150 for approximately $50 total. I disabled the dash again and plugged in my new aftermarket adapter. Needless to say, the aftermarket brake controller DOESN'T require you to have your truck "flashed" after installing. It simply by passes your truck's programming and starts working immediately. As long as your ok with a brake controller attached to your dash (I used velcro, did not screw it into dash) , it's a lot easier and cheaper to buy and install an aftermarket brake controller.

[@johnandersen7219]

My 2014 f150 had been having issues with the factory brake controller not detecting my trailers. Swapped out the controller and still not working. Thinking of just bypassing the factory set up. Did you plug aftermarket controller into the factory wiring for the original controller? Thanks

[@blainemaestas88]

@@johnandersen7219 I ended up returning that brake controller from Amazon. I installed a trailer brake controller from AutoZone and an adapter. It works alright

[@chickensnickers]

Great video, thanks!

[@brettrogers9853]

what version of forscan do I need to download for a 2019 F150 XLT to activate trailer brakes

[@joegenshlea6827]

Hi - I have a 2016 F150 XLT EcoBoost 3.5 SuperCrew. There is no IPC module discovered after running the procedure described. Advice?

[@musafirnolfe]

Can I enable cruise control same way on F150 XL 2016 model. (after swapping steering wheel with cruise control buttons)

[@deanofmen1]

Does this install result in power going to the trailer battery so that it charges while driving the tow vehicle?

[@josephstevens9026]

I went to the link for the firscan adapter and there are 2. It appears one is an adapter and the other is the diagnostic tool. Do I need both?

[@ajibadetv]

Hello Aaron just watch your video Trying to install I have a question when I got to the chip Mine does not show IPC Module configuration Any solution for that Thanks

[@TRprepper]

Thanks for the video!

[@elir2041]

Hi, Does the brake controller in the link of the video works in a 2019 Ford Expedition Max 3.5, thank you

[@seanreed6949]

Make sure you have a 30 amp fuse in slot 24 for the controller to work. My 2019 did not have one. Just a fyi

[@rodrigo1972100]

Thanks, it is really helpful!!!!!

[@Burnasty1]

Quick question. When I press gain it shows plus and minus what I’ve done. When I squeeze the toggle nothing. Is that normal or is my unit broken?

[@konradjoseph4740]

Great video! Thanks a lot! Can You also make video how to enable factory subwoofer with forscan??

[@alexbothwell6349]

My 2016 using this same forscan wire is not bringing up IPC. What’s up with that? It said the cable I have may not work properly with forscan but I ordered this exact cable.

[@MikesRCWorld]

I’m getting a U0137 loss communication with trailer broke control module can you help ?

[@rjhiler6471]

Excellent video. Evidently everyone has had positive results but me. I carefully installed an OEM controller in my 2016 F150 but, so far, it does not work. I thought it was related to the DTC that comes up after the initial scan, (U0423:55-0B) but I see that yours showed the same thing. I thought it was a bad modul so I returned it and got another. Same result. No brakes yet. My IPC list did not have the "control gain" line item only the "brake control module" line item. Any suggestions?

[@gbrianmullinax8448]

Hi Aaron Would I need to do the same procedure if I installed an after market brake controller?

[@jasonhosang4812]

Hey do you know if this affects warranty by using FORScan if it’s not performance related?

[@bh1075]

I just enabled it on my '19 3.5 lariat. Now I do not have drive modes??? I don't really use them but want to make sure this is right.

[@gregghoff730]

Very helpful info!

[@user-dc3pq1rw1i]

I just tried to enable this with the ELM 327 module and when I clicked play, it said that I needed an extended license for this to work. How do I go about getting that license? I tried to contact ForScan support via the chat they put on the card that came in the package, but no one is responding. Any help would be appreciated.

[@davalleyguy5020]

So if my factory installed controller isnt showing up or working at all the dealer will be able to turn it on?

[@abu_abdullah8244]

Very helpful. Thanks

[@mikegranese6994]

On my 2017 F-150 with the tow package, not max tow. I have installed the Ford brake controller, Started to work on IPC Module enable. I get the notice I need the extended license. I downloaded the extended license got approved, tried again and it will not work, telling me I need a key. Downloaded the Key the language is Korean. I am a lot worried about installing, as the only review was bad and about getting "Stacked". I am not clear on that term. I want to get the controller to work. Please advise.

[@MrDonny475]

but is there a cable to do the install from a MAC laptop or iPad?

[@MUZICROCKZ9]

Would this be possible on a 300a XLT with the 2.5” display without towing package? If not, what other options are there for a factory brake controller?

[@jonadams5276]

im having issues getting forscan onto my laptop. i downloaded it from the link but when i goto open it the appstore opens and then closes and nothing happens any advice? running windows 11

[@twistedpudding]

I just did this on my 2022, and I can see and set the gain, but it keeps saying "no trailer" even when I hook my trailer up. Do you have any ideas what that can be?

[@robjacobs3369]

Does the fordscan lite work the same way!! Gonna enable my trailer brakes and turn off my autostop and start

[@kojuggalo]

Thanks exactly what i needed

[@AaronHinesAuto]

Glad to hear!

[@kenmacdonald8789]

Can this tbc be modified to work on 2009 f150 w/tow package. Not any 2009 OEM tbc out there, or do I have to go aftermarket

[@ricardobeato1125]

I downloaded forscan And it’s not connecting to my truck does anyone know what I am doing wrong?

[@bouchzx14]

Do you know if the controller can be turned on with HP Tuner hardware and software?

[@trentmiller7532]

My truck came with a pigtail and block fuse in a plastic bag, in the glovebox. I have a 2014 without the controller installed, so does that block fuse and pigtail have something to do with the installation? I’m asking because aside from you programing with the computer on the video, you just plugged the module in and rolled with it. I need help, if what i am talking about is a factor

[@eschnick]

I would think you'd want to do the Forscan config before popping everything back in place......?

[@douggregory2922]

Can this be activated with IDS? If so how?

[@Frenchfryguy1]

Do you need to buy a control module or just enable it with the cable?