Are you a RAM 1500 owner looking to install a trailer brake controller without breaking the bank at the dealership? Many dealerships quote exorbitant prices, often around $700, for purchasing and installing a factory trailer brake controller. This guide will show you how to perform a DIY installation at home, saving you hundreds of dollars and empowering you to manage your vehicle’s software yourself. In this comprehensive walkthrough, we will cover everything from ordering the necessary parts to flashing the software using AlfaOBD, ensuring seamless integration with your UConnect system. Forget expensive dealership visits and take control of your RAM 1500 trailer brake controller installation.
Step 1: Gathering the Necessary Parts
The first step towards your DIY brake controller installation is to order the correct parts. The parts listed below are confirmed to work with the 12-inch touchscreen UConnect system and should be compatible with most standard RAM 1500 models. However, it’s always wise to double-check compatibility with your specific model year and trim. You can order these parts from your preferred online vendor or local parts supplier.
Required Parts List:
- Trailer Tow Module (68277136af): This is the core component that manages the trailer braking system.
- Switch Instrument Panel (68309259ac): Specifically designed for models with the 12-inch screen and likely compatible with others, this switch integrates the brake controller into your dashboard.
- Module Bracket (68346572ab): This bracket ensures secure mounting of the trailer tow module.
- Nuts (6510468aa x3): Three nuts to secure the module bracket.
- Screws (6101946 x3): Three screws for mounting components.
- OBD2 Bluetooth Reader (BAFX Products OBD2 Bluetooth Reader or equivalent): Essential for connecting to your vehicle’s computer system. A Bluetooth reader is recommended for wireless connectivity to your smartphone or tablet.
- FCA Security Gateway Bypass Module: Required to bypass the security gateway and allow software modifications via the OBD2 port.
- AlfaOBD Software (Available on app stores): This software is crucial for configuring the vehicle’s computer to recognize and utilize the new trailer brake controller.
Estimated Total Cost (DIY Software Update): ~$237.60
By sourcing these parts yourself and performing the installation and software flashing at home, you can achieve significant savings compared to dealership costs.
Considering Dealership Software Flash:
If you prefer to avoid the software flashing process yourself, you can opt to have your local dealership perform this step. However, factor in their labor costs, which could negate some of the savings. The benefit of investing in an OBD2 reader and AlfaOBD extends beyond just this installation. These tools empower you to read and clear engine codes, perform other software updates, and gain deeper diagnostic access to your vehicle in the future. This capability can be valuable for ongoing vehicle maintenance and troubleshooting.
Step 2: Battery Disconnection – Safety First
Before commencing any electrical work on your vehicle, safety is paramount. The first crucial step is to disconnect the negative battery terminal. This prevents electrical shorts and ensures a safe working environment.
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Image alt text: RAM 1500 battery negative terminal with red circle highlighting the terminal.
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Image alt text: Mechanic using a wrench to disconnect the negative battery terminal of a RAM 1500.
Locate the negative battery terminal in your engine bay. Typically, it is marked with a negative (-) sign and is often black. Use a 10mm wrench or an equivalent tool to loosen the nut on the negative terminal clamp. Once loose, carefully detach the negative cable from the terminal and tuck it aside, ensuring it does not accidentally reconnect during the installation process.
Step 3: Dashboard Center Stack Removal
Removing the center stack of your RAM 1500 dashboard might seem daunting, but it’s a straightforward process that doesn’t require specialized tools or excessive force. This step is necessary to access the wiring and mounting location for the new brake controller switch.
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Image alt text: RAM 1500 dashboard center stack with red arrows pointing to the two screws at the top.
Begin by locating and removing the two screws situated at the top of the center stack trim piece. These screws are usually easily visible.
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Image alt text: Close up view of the top of the RAM 1500 center stack showing the screw location.
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Image alt text: RAM 1500 interior with the center stack partially removed, showcasing the clips and connectors.
Once the screws are removed, place one hand in the upper cupped area of the trim piece and the other hand at the bottom. Gently but firmly pull the center stack straight out towards the back of the cab. The trim piece is held in place by clips, and with steady pressure, it will detach. Avoid jerky or excessive force to prevent damage to the clips or the dashboard.
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Image alt text: RAM 1500 dashboard with the center stack completely removed, revealing the underlying structure and wiring.
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Image alt text: Connector on the back of the RAM 1500 center stack with a small screwdriver pointing to the latch.
You will encounter electrical connectors on the back of the center stack. To disconnect these, carefully depress the latch on each connector using a small screwdriver or your fingernail. While not strictly necessary, disconnecting all plugs on the back of the console is highly recommended. This provides more working room, minimizes the risk of damaging wires or the console itself, and generally makes the subsequent steps easier to manage.
Step 4: Unveiling the Brake Controller Connector
With the center stack removed, the next step is to locate and prepare the connector that will be used to connect your new trailer brake switch. This connector is typically wrapped in cloth tape for protection and to blend in with the existing wiring harness.
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Image alt text: Cloth tape wrapped connector in a RAM 1500 dashboard wiring harness, prepared for brake controller installation.
Carefully unwrap the cloth tape to expose the connector. This is the designated connector for the trailer brake controller switch. Ensure you have identified the correct connector as per your vehicle’s wiring diagrams if available, or consult online resources specific to your RAM 1500 model year for visual confirmation.
(Continue with the remaining steps – Installation of the module, software flashing with AlfaOBD, and final checks in the subsequent sections to complete the guide.)
