Trailer Brake Controller, have to 'flash' the vehicle?

[jamesg51]

I have a 2023 Explorer with tow package. I went to an RV store to purchase an aftermarket brake controller; however, they said that it couldn't be installed without the computer being 'flashed' by the dealership.

I've called the dealership service department, but they weren't tracking what was meant by 'flashed'.

I can't seem to post attachments, but the 2023 Ford Explorer Towing Selector .pdf mentions compatible after-market trailer brake controllers; however, it doesn't list what controllers are compatible.

Does anyone have any feedback as to what brake controller will work? Can I trust the e-trailer recommendations?

 

[Dale5403]

Your RV store has crap for brains. A lot of people hve installed a brake controller on these Explorers. The Redarc is a popular one. REDARC Brake Control Accessories

 

[Pedro504]

Lots of useful information here too.

https://www.etrailer.com/p-RED44FR.html?hhyear=2023&hhmake=Ford&hhmodel=Explorer

Also, I wouldn't go back to that RV store.

 

[Beargap]

I have a 2023 Explorer with tow package. I went to an RV store to purchase an aftermarket brake controller; however, they said that it couldn't be installed without the computer being 'flashed' by the dealership.

I've called the dealership service department, but they weren't tracking what was meant by 'flashed'.

I can't seem to post attachments, but the 2023 Ford Explorer Towing Selector .pdf mentions compatible after-market trailer brake controllers; however, it doesn't list what controllers are compatible.

Does anyone have any feedback as to what brake controller will work? Can I trust the e-trailer recommendations?

If you have the Trailer Tow package, installing the brake controller is literally "plug and play" although reaching the socket under the dash to plug in to takes a bit of contortion. There are jumper cables for most controllers that connect between the brake controller and the designated socket..

 

[peterk9]

I have a 2023 Explorer with tow package. I went to an RV store to purchase an aftermarket brake controller; however, they said that it couldn't be installed without the computer being 'flashed' by the dealership.

I've called the dealership service department, but they weren't tracking what was meant by 'flashed'.

I can't seem to post attachments, but the 2023 Ford Explorer Towing Selector .pdf mentions compatible after-market trailer brake controllers; however, it doesn't list what controllers are compatible.

Does anyone have any feedback as to what brake controller will work? Can I trust the e-trailer recommendations?

Welcome to the Forum James.
I don't recall ever reading about having to "flash the vehicle" in any other posts regrading adding a controller.

Peter

 

[Franks23]

I've installed Redarc brake controllers in a 2021 and a 2023 Explorer with the trailer tow package, plug and play. Purchased from e-trailer.com, they provide the proper interface cable. The electrical port is on the right side high on the steering column just below the air bag under the plastic cover, also a dummy plug has to be removed.