The 2015 Ford F-150 is a powerful and capable pickup truck. If you’re planning on towing a trailer, you’ll need to install a brake controller to ensure that your trailer’s brakes are working properly. Installing a brake controller is not a difficult task, but it does require some basic electrical knowledge. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to add a brake controller to your 2015 F-150.
Before you begin, you’ll need to gather a few tools and materials. You’ll need a brake controller, a wiring harness, a drill, and a screwdriver. You’ll also need to consult your truck’s owner’s manual to locate the proper wiring diagram. Once you have everything you need, you’re ready to begin the installation process.
The first step is to locate the brake controller mounting bracket. The bracket is usually located under the dashboard, on the driver’s side. Once you’ve found the bracket, you’ll need to drill a few holes to mount the brake controller. Once the brake controller is mounted, you’ll need to connect the wiring harness. The wiring harness will connect the brake controller to the truck’s electrical system. Once the wiring harness is connected, you’ll need to test the brake controller to make sure that it’s working properly. To do this, simply apply the brakes in your truck and make sure that the trailer’s brakes are also engaged.
Mounting the Brake Controller
To mount the brake controller, you will need the following tools:
Phillips head screwdriver
Flat-blade screwdriver
Drill
1/4-inch drill bit
1/2-inch drill bit
7/16-inch wrench
Wire strippers
Electrical tape
Drilling the Hole for the Brake Controller
1. Use the 1/4-inch drill bit to drill a pilot hole in the desired location for the brake controller.
2. Use the 1/2-inch drill bit to widen the hole to 1/2 inch.
3. Insert the brake controller into the hole and tighten the mounting screws.
Wiring the Brake Controller
1. Connect the red wire from the brake controller to the positive terminal on the battery.
2. Connect the black wire from the brake controller to the negative terminal on the battery.
3. Connect the blue wire from the brake controller to the brake switch on the brake pedal.
4. Connect the white wire from the brake controller to the ground terminal on the chassis.
Testing the Brake Controller
1. Start the engine and apply the brakes.
2. The brake controller should activate and the brake lights should come on.
3. If the brake controller does not activate, check the wiring connections and make sure that the brake switch is properly adjusted.
Connecting the Trailer Brake Wires
Now that you have a compatible brake controller and the necessary tools, here are the detailed steps to connect the trailer brake wires:
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before starting, ensure you have all the necessary materials, including the brake controller, wiring harness, electrical tape, wire strippers, and crimp connectors.
Step 2: Locate the Wiring Harness
Identify the brake controller wiring harness in your truck. It is typically located behind the dashboard or under the steering column.
Step 3: Connect the Power Wires
Connect the black wire from the controller to a ground point on the truck’s frame using a crimp connector. Connect the yellow wire to a constant 12-volt power source, such as the battery or ignition switch.
Step 4: Connect the Brake Output Wires
Identify the blue and red wires from the controller. Crimp the blue wire to the brake light switch wire, typically a green wire, using a butt connector. Crimp the red wire to the stoplight wire.
Step 5: Connect the Trailer Wires
Locate the trailer’s wiring harness and connect the controller’s black wire to the white wire on the trailer. Connect the controller’s yellow wire to the brown wire on the trailer.
Step 6: Connect the Brake Signal Wire
Connect the blue wire from the controller to the blue wire on the trailer’s brake circuit. This wire sends the brake signal to the trailer’s brakes.
Step 7: Double-Check and Insulate
Thoroughly check all connections to ensure they are secure and insulated. Wrap electrical tape around all exposed wire ends and any connections made with crimp connectors. This prevents short circuits and ensures a reliable connection.
Step 8: Test the System
Connect the trailer to the truck and test the brake controller. Press the brake pedal and observe if the trailer’s brakes are activated. Adjust the controller’s settings as needed for optimal braking performance.
| Wire Color (Truck) | Function | Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Black | Ground | Truck frame |
| Yellow | Power | Battery or ignition switch |
| Blue | Brake Signal | Brake light switch |
| Red | Stoplight | Stoplight wire |
| Wire Color (Trailer) | Function | Connection |
|---|---|---|
| White | Ground | Controller black wire |
| Brown | Power | Controller yellow wire |
| Blue | Brake Signal | Controller blue wire |
Installing the Brake Light Switch
The brake light switch is responsible for activating the brake lights when the brake pedal is depressed. To install the brake light switch, follow these steps:
1. Locate the brake light switch on the brake pedal assembly. It is usually located near the top of the pedal.
2. Disconnect the electrical connector from the brake light switch.
3. Use a wrench to remove the brake light switch from the brake pedal assembly.
4. Apply a small amount of grease to the threads of the new brake light switch.
5. Install the new brake light switch into the brake pedal assembly.
6. Tighten the brake light switch using a wrench.
7. Connect the electrical connector to the brake light switch.
8. Depress the brake pedal to test the brake light switch. The brake lights should illuminate when the brake pedal is depressed.
Checking the Brake Light Switch
If you are having problems with your brake lights, you can check the brake light switch to see if it is faulty. To check the brake light switch, follow these steps:
1. Disconnect the electrical connector from the brake light switch.
2. Use a multimeter to check for continuity between the two terminals of the brake light switch.
3. If there is no continuity, the brake light switch is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Maintaining the Brake Controller
To ensure your brake controller functions properly and safely, regular maintenance is essential. Here are some key steps to follow:
- Inspect the Brake Controller: Regularly inspect the brake controller for any signs of damage, such as loose connections or frayed wires.
- Clean the Brake Controller: Use a soft cloth and mild detergent to gently clean the brake controller to remove dirt and dust.
- Check the Brake Pedal Sensitivity: The brake pedal sensitivity should be adjusted to suit your driving style and load weight. Refer to the brake controller manual for guidance.
- Test the Brake Controller: Conduct a test drive with the trailer attached to verify that the brake controller is operating correctly.
- Verify Trailer Brake Operation: Inspect the trailer brakes to ensure they are properly activated when applying the brake pedal.
- Lubricate the Brake Controller: If specified by the manufacturer, lubricate the brake controller as per the provided instructions.
- Update the Brake Controller Firmware: If firmware updates are available, install them to enhance the brake controller’s functionality and address any potential issues.
- Inspect Wiring and Connections: Thoroughly examine the wiring and connections for any damage, corrosion, or loose terminals, especially those exposed to the elements.
- Use Quality Components: Ensure that all components used with the brake controller, such as trailer wiring and connectors, are high-quality and compatible with your vehicle and trailer.
- Refer to the User Manual: Always consult the brake controller user manual for specific maintenance instructions and troubleshooting tips.
| Additional Maintenance Tips |
|---|
| – Check the brake fluid level regularly and top it off if necessary. |
| – Have the entire brake system inspected and serviced by a qualified mechanic as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. |
| – Store the brake controller in a dry and protected location when not in use. |
2015 F150 How To Add Brake Controller
If you’re towing a trailer with your 2015 F150, you’ll need to install a brake controller. This will allow you to manually control the trailer’s brakes, which is important for safety and preventing accidents.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install a brake controller in your 2015 F150:
- Gather your materials. You’ll need a brake controller, wiring harness, and mounting bracket.
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Locate the brake pedal assembly. The brake controller will be mounted under the dash, to the left of the brake pedal.
- Install the mounting bracket. The bracket will be attached to the brake pedal assembly using the provided bolts.
- Connect the wiring harness to the brake controller. The wiring harness will be plugged into the brake controller and the brake pedal assembly.
- Connect the negative battery terminal.
- Test the brake controller. Apply the brakes and make sure that the trailer’s brakes are also engaging.
People Also Ask About 2015 F150 How To Add Brake Controller
Can I install a brake controller myself?
Yes, you can install a brake controller yourself if you have some basic automotive knowledge and tools.
Where is the best place to mount a brake controller?
The best place to mount a brake controller is under the dash, to the left of the brake pedal. This will give you easy access to the controller while driving.
What type of brake controller do I need for my 2015 F150?
You will need a brake controller that is compatible with your 2015 F150’s towing capacity. Consult your owner’s manual or a qualified technician to determine the correct brake controller for your vehicle.
