Does a Toyota Tundra have a trailer brake?
Yes. The Toyota Tundra can include a built-in trailer brake controller when it is equipped with the Tow Package; if the Tow Package is not selected, there is no factory trailer brake controller.
Beyond that basic answer, this article explains how the system is configured, how to tell whether your Tundra has it, how to use and calibrate the controller, and what alternatives exist if your truck doesn’t include the feature.
Tow Package and the integrated trailer brake controller
The key to having trailer braking control on a Tundra is the Tow Package. When this option is chosen, Toyota’s Integrated Trailer Brake Controller (TBC) is included, along with a 7-pin trailer electrical connector. The TBC lets the truck apply the trailer’s brakes in proportion to the vehicle’s braking effort, which improves stability and stopping power when towing.
Below are the core elements you typically get with the Tow Package on a Tundra, which relate directly to trailer braking and towing capability:
- Integrated Trailer Brake Controller (TBC) linked to the trailer’s braking system
- 7-pin trailer electrical connector for power, lighting, and braking signals
- Hitch and towing hardware compatible with the trailer being towed
- Ability to adjust trailer brake gain to suit trailer weight and braking needs
For buyers and owners, the presence of the Tow Package can usually be confirmed on the window sticker or by checking the vehicle’s equipment list with a dealer, as some trims may require the package to enable the TBC.
How to know if your Tundra has the trailer brake controller
To determine whether your specific Tundra has the integrated trailer brake controller, use these checks:
- Look for the Tow Package on the original window sticker or build sheet, which includes the TBC and the 7-pin connector.
- In the vehicle’s infotainment or instrument cluster, navigate to towing or trailer settings to see if a trailer brake gain setting is present.
- Inspect the rear area for a 7-pin connector, typically mounted near the hitch area or in the bed or bumper, depending on the model year.
If you don’t see these items and you plan to tow, you should verify with a dealer whether your truck can be equipped with the Tow Package and the integrated trailer brake controller, or consider an aftermarket solution.
Using and calibrating the Integrated Trailer Brake Controller
When the TBC is installed, you’ll typically adjust trailer braking gain to match the trailer’s weight and braking characteristics. The setup is designed to be user-friendly, often through an in-dash control interface or a dedicated control in the driver’s cockpit.
- Consult the owner’s manual or the in-vehicle guide to locate the trailer brake gain control and understand the recommended starting point for your trailer’s weight.
- Set an initial gain at a moderate level and perform a controlled test stop in a safe area to gauge how the trailer brakes engage.
- Gradually adjust the gain up or down based on the test results to achieve smooth, stable braking without trailer nose-diving or excessive trailer braking.
- Retest under different loads and speeds, and re-tune as needed, especially if you switch trailers of significantly different weight.
Tip: If you tow frequently or with heavy loads, keep a spare moment to re-calibrate the gain when you switch to trailers with different weights or braking characteristics.
What if your Tundra doesn’t have the Tow Package?
If your truck isn’t equipped with the Tow Package and you still need trailer brakes, you have options to consider:
- Install an aftermarket trailer brake controller that fits your needs and is compatible with your trailer’s braking system.
- Use a basic trailer braking setup with separate braking controls on the trailer itself, though this is less integrated than a factory or dealer-installed system.
- Consult a Toyota dealership or a professional towing specialist about adding the integrated trailer brake controller as a factory-installed option or through an authorized install.
Be aware that adding aftermarket components may affect warranty coverage and could require professional installation to ensure proper wiring and safety.
Summary
In short, a Toyota Tundra can have a built-in trailer brake controller, but only if it is equipped with the Tow Package. The Tow Package provides the Integrated Trailer Brake Controller and a 7-pin connector, enabling proportional trailer braking controlled from the vehicle. If the Tow Package isn’t included, you won’t have a factory trailer brake controller, but aftermarket options are available. Always verify the exact equipment on your specific truck and follow proper setup and testing procedures when towing.
How do I know if my truck has a trailer brake controller?
How Do I Know If My Truck Has a Brake Controller? Most trucks come with a brake controller installed by the manufacture (OEM). The brake controller usually has an image of a trailer and you would see a dial and two small knobs.
Are tundras good for pulling trailers?
Specifically, the 2025, 2024, 2023, and 2022 Toyota Tundra trucks can all tow up to 12,000 pounds,1 since they all make use of the same redesigned body, frame, and powertrain. The i-FORCE and i-FORCE MAX V-6 engines let this truck do more than ever, and even against the older V-8 models, that remains the case.
Does the Toyota Tundra have a trailer brake controller?
If equipped The trailer brakes can be controlled by the Trailer brake controller via the 7-pin connector.
What does the Toyota Tundra tow package include?
The Toyota Tundra tow package typically includes a Class-IV hitch receiver, 7-pin wiring harness, and an integrated trailer brake controller, along with other features like TOW/HAUL driving modes, Trailer-Sway Control, and an enhanced cooling system for the engine and transmission. Depending on the specific model and year, it can also include towing mirrors, load-leveling rear suspension, and driver-assist technologies like Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, as explained by Wesley Chapel Toyota and Toyota of Warsaw.
Key features of the Tundra tow package:
- Hitch and wiring: Includes a Class-IV towing hitch receiver and a 7-pin wiring harness for connecting trailers.
- Braking and control: Features an integrated trailer brake controller and Trailer-Sway Control for managing trailer braking and stability.
- Driving modes: TOW/HAUL modes adjust the vehicle's throttle response and shift points to improve performance when towing.
- Cooling: Comes with an upgraded cooling system for the engine and transmission to prevent overheating during heavy use.
- Driver assists: May include enhanced features like Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (which works with an estimated trailer length), Multi-Terrain Monitor, and Trailer Backup Guide with Straight Path Assist, notes Yellowstone Toyota and Toyota of Warsaw.
- Suspension: Includes an Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) and Load-leveling Rear Height Control Air Suspension for a more stable and level ride while towing.
- Visibility: May include available Tundra tow mirrors for better visibility of your trailer.
