Replaced Integrated Trailer Brake Control Module Needing Programmed??

[Wyo_Flyer]

Hello,

Had an issue with our 2017 Silverado 3500 HD recently pulling a fifth wheel trailer. Purchased a new trailer and getting intermittent “check trailer connection” display. When display is on, no trailer brake! Never had an issue with our old fifth wheel or our dump trailer. Checked new trailer brake wiring front to back (it has an anti lock braking system), soldered all the connections for power and ground, still have had an issue.  Replaced the ITBC module. My question is does it need to be programmed.  I have heard no and yes!!

Thank You

[davester]

For my '12, a new module needs to be programmed.  I would expect yours will need to be programmed as well.

Is the trailer electric over hydraulic?  I think GM's setup can have problems working with trailers that have it.

Edited February 19 by davester

[GMCustomerService]

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[newdude]

On 2/18/2026 at 4:37 PM, Wyo_Flyer said:

Hello,

Had an issue with our 2017 Silverado 3500 HD recently pulling a fifth wheel trailer. Purchased a new trailer and getting intermittent “check trailer connection” display. When display is on, no trailer brake! Never had an issue with our old fifth wheel or our dump trailer. Checked new trailer brake wiring front to back (it has an anti lock braking system), soldered all the connections for power and ground, still have had an issue.  Replaced the ITBC module. My question is does it need to be programmed.  I have heard no and yes!!

Thank You

 

 

The trailer brake power control module is plug and play.  

 

If you replaced the chassis control module, which is also involved with the trailer brakes, that requires programming.  

Edited March 10 by newdude

[Chuck FB]

On 3/10/2026 at 10:21 AM, newdude said:

 

 

The trailer brake power control module is plug and play.  

 

If you replaced the chassis control module, which is also involved with the trailer brakes, that requires programming.  

 

Speaking of the trailer brake controller system, I had hooked onto a trailer months after I had bought my 2025 model HD and nothing on the dash indicated any issues and it went through the trailer light check fine. However when I pulled the trailer around the yard and even using the manual brake controller and jacked it up to 10, I couldn't sense any braking action. I never had a chance to try another trailer to confirm it was the truck but wondered if there is such a thing as a reasonably priced test unit that can fool these new trucks into sorting out if proper voltage is being sent to the trailer brakes. Would a dealer even have such test equipment in the event I have to bring it to the dealer. Also with these new systems is it even possible to check for voltage with a simple volt meter at the plug with no plug plugged in like an older vehicles system would be able to be tested or is it too smart for that type of test ?