Are Bluetooth Brake Controllers Safe?

Towing is huge in Australia, and it’s not slowing down. As hauling caravans, boats and trailers across the country grows in popularity, motorists are on the lookout for gear that makes things easier and more efficient without compromising safety. 

Bluetooth brake controllers slot into that category nicely. These wireless units promise fast setup and flexible towing with no need to modify your towing vehicle.

These controllers are taking off thanks to brands like Elecbrakes and REDARC and their high-quality Bluetooth towing options. One question we get asked all the time by Speedy Towbars customers is, “Are Bluetooth Brake Controllers safe?”

The answer is yes! At Speedy Towbars safety is our highest priority. We wouldn’t be promoting these products if we didn’t feel they were safe. In this article we want to explain why we feel this way, and give you the background information so you can see why. (Check out this braking guide for more on the different types of brake controllers).

To start with, let’s look at what a Bluetooth brake controller is. 

What is a Bluetooth Brake Controller?

A Bluetooth brake controller is like any other electric brake controller, a device that controls and applies the electric braking system of your trailer. Traditionally, this requires there to be a wired connection between your brake controller, trailer and a dial to adjust and control your brake unit. 

Bluetooth brake controllers, like those from Elecbrakes and the new Tow-Pro Link from REDARC, take a different approach. The controller can be mounted at the rear of the vehicle or on the trailer (Elecbrakes). It connects into the car’s existing trailer wiring, or for the Elecbrakes unit, can be connected via a trailer adapter, which makes it completely plug and play.

This “plug and play” style is particularly appealing to those who use multiple vehicles to tow, lease their cars, or want to avoid a complicated installation. 

Wired vs Wireless Electric Brakes

Brake controllers like the Redarc Tow-Pro have built a solid reputation for safety. The fact that everything is hardwired together gives customers the security of control, consistency and safety. 

So how do Bluetooth brake controllers compare?

Well, they’ve also been engineered with safety in mind. They use encrypted, low-latency Bluetooth signals designed to be robust, even in challenging environments. Independent testing and real-world use cases show that the braking response time is incredibly fast and more than sufficient for Australian roads and conditions.

Built-In Safety Features

One of the most common misconceptions about Bluetooth brake controllers is that they use Bluetooth to power the trailer’s brakes. That’s not the case. The braking system itself is still wired in the traditional way, just like any standard brake controller. The key difference lies in how you interact with the controller.

With Bluetooth models like the REDARC Tow-Pro Link and Elecbrakes units, the remote control isn’t hardwired into your vehicle. Instead, it connects wirelessly via Bluetooth, removing the need for complex installs or running wires through your dashboard. These systems can be controlled using a smartphone app or a physical remote powered by a USB socket.

This setup allows you to adjust brake settings, switch modes, and activate the manual override when needed, all from your phone or the Bluetooth remote.

What if Bluetooth Drops Out or My Phone Dies?

This is the most frequently asked question, and understandably so. But here’s the reassurance: the Bluetooth connection is only used to change settings or apply manual control. The actual brake activation happens through the physical unit wired into your trailer’s braking system, whether it’s hardwired or connected via an adapter.

If your phone dies or the Bluetooth connection is lost, your trailer brakes will continue operating exactly as they were last set. You’ll still have full braking functionality until you’re able to reconnect your device and make changes, giving you plenty of time to safely pull over or recharge.

Key Takeaway:
If your Bluetooth controller loses connection or goes flat, your brakes will keep working as normal. Your settings remain in place, and your safety is never compromised.

Real-World Use and Proven Performance

Thousands of Australian travellers rely on Bluetooth brake controllers for their towing needs, and we’re not just talking casual holidaymakers. From long-distance caravan tours to tradespeople hauling heavy loads during the work week, these systems are used daily in the real world.

Electric Brake controllers have developed a strong following, with users praising their seamless performance, straightforward app interface, and ability to easily switch between tow vehicles or trailers. 

Tips for Using a Bluetooth Brake Controller Safely

If you’re considering using a Bluetooth controller for your trailer, follow these best practices for a safe towing experience:

• Choose a trusted brand like Elecbrakes or Redarc with proven safety features and ADR compliance.
• Secure the unit properly to your trailer or vehicle using the recommended installation method.
• Do a pre-trip brake test every time you hit the road.
• Keep your phone charged and use an ADR approved phone mount if you’re using it to control settings.
• Install the remote control option if you prefer not to rely on your phone mid-drive.
• Regularly check for firmware updates to ensure optimal performance.
• Familiarise yourself with manual override controls in case of emergencies.

Conclusion: Safe, Smart, and Growing in Popularity

So, are Bluetooth brake controllers safe?

The answer is yes, when they are used correctly and installed according to manufacturer guidelines, Bluetooth brake controllers are a smart and convenient choice when you’re embarking on your towing journey.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about electric brake controller options, chat to one of our towbar experts today at Speedy Towbars. We’re here to give you fulfilling, safe and enjoyable towing experiences!