Thanks for the video. Very helpful. I did this for my 2015 2.7L. The steps are the same as in the video above, but you only need to activate one setting - the trailer brake control gain module. There are not two options to enable, just one on a model year 2015. I did this with a VINT ELM 327 USB model that I got on amazon for 19$. Worked perfectly. My ford dealership would not even give me a price to activate it because it "wasnt quite as simple" as I described.
My truck does not have the IPC module either. Since IPC stands for 'Instrument Panel Control' one would have a feature on the instrument panel to control features, i.e. Trailer Brake Control. Since my F-150 is a 2010, it does not have this feature. I believe this was implemented in the 2012 year and up. That being said, I was troubleshooting my 7-way plug because my electric brakes on my camper would not engage when pressing the brake pedal. They engaged if I manually engaged them by squeezing the lever on the factory TBC (trailer brake controller) on my instrument panel (lower right region from the steering wheel.) A voltage reading on the electric brake pin-out on the 7-way connector, yielded only mV with the brake pedal pressed and 12V with the TBC lever engaged. Today I snooped in to the truck's chip with an OBD2 Adapter via FORScan. As I stated in my opening paragraph, I did not see the IPC module but I did find a single line for TBC (Trailer Brake Controller). While poking around the software, I discovered the means to reset the module. It was fairly straight forward in the reset proces...just followed the onscreen prompts. After it was reset, I disconnected the adapter and had the wife press the brake pedal. Lo and behold...I got a reading of 12V. I didn't have the time to connect my camper and test if the brakes are now going to work while towing...so that is something I will try this weekend. I am fairly confident this has solved my 'electric brakes not engaging' issue. I hope this is helpful to the next poor fellow dealing with the same issue. Peace.
Great Video. Thanks. It made it much easier after I realized that you were using FORScan software with an extended license instead of the native software that comes with the OBDLink device.
I have a 2018 Expedition max with the 3.5l Ecoboost. We have to install our own Ford brake controller. I am having a hell of a time doing what you are doing to toggle the modules. I have even bought the Ford upgraded tool for OBDWiz. My screens look nothing like yours and have no idea how to continue. Any assistance appreciated.
Where do you go to change the DRL settings, I read that you can set the halo strip for the anzo switch back headlights, I own these and would like to set them
!Hello all. Can I turn on remote start in the cluster or do I have to go to the dealer $$$$. Also this truck has hill descent button from the FX4 but not seeing anything in cluster, maybe there isn't suppose to be anything there. Thanks for doing this video & for all of the responses!
Awesome video, thanks.. Just got my new 2017 F150 with trailer package but no TBC. so I bought one from ebay and trying to install myself. After installing the device, i just need to follow this video? Do I not need to take it to Ford deal for more activation? If not then how can know installation activation was successful? Thanks, -Joe
I have a 2017 F150 4x4 Supercrew 2.7L V6 6 speed automatic with Trailer Tow Package. I have installed the Trailer Brake Controller and now activating the configuration settings. I am using an OBDLink SX with an old laptop computer running Windows XP OS. The driver for the USB connection has been successfully installed and the computer/OBDLink is successfully communicating. I have downloaded FORScan and have it configured for extended license. The first thing I notice is the Log file is not a comprehensive as the one shown in the video. I then move to Configuration and Programming. I do not see an IPC module listed. You talk about a friend experiencing this also at 1:25. I also do not see any heading such as HSCAN, MSCAN, HSCAN2, HSCAN3. Any ideas why I do not see an IPC module to enable the Trailer Brake Controller configuration setting?
The vehicle is equipped with MS CAN bus in addition to the regular HS CAN bus. MS CAN bus is not supported by the stock ELM327 (OBDLink SX) module. There is a hardware work around for this but it is up to the operator to make the modifications. The OBDLink MX that is recommended in the video does support MS-CAN and SW-CAN.
I just bought a 2017 XL, 3.5 Ecoboost Supercrew with the STX pacakge. The truck has the trailer hitch, but no TBC. The trailer I use on a daily basis is a 2012 United, 6X10 cargo trailer with electric brakes. the trailer of course has a 7 pin connector. When I hook up the 7 pin connector from the trailer to the truck, the truck recognizes the trailer on the display. As I don't have a TBC in the truck there's no way to change the gain setting. When I go to pull the truck, the electric trailer brakes are engaging to the point of almost locking up. The local Ford dealer told me that the wires in the trailer 7 pin connector are wired incorrectly. So I cut off the original, sealed, 7 pin connector that came with the trailer from United and replaced it with a new aftermarket 7 pin connector. It was wired with each wire going to the correct pin location in the connector. I plug it in to the truck again, same problem, trailer brakes engage. I checked to insure that the 12 volt power and trailer brake wires are correct in the trailer 7 pin connector and everything is correct. The only way I can get the trailer to roll without the trailer brakes engaging is to disconnect the trailer brake and 12 volt wires in the trailer 7 pin connector. Any ideas what may be causing the problem?
Just curious, I did all the steps, enabled everything, trailer brakes work bit when I adj the gain on the controller it says no active trailer even with the trailer connected to truck. Is this normal. It's been driving me nuts, thanks
Hello there. Thanks for the video. Can you let me know the part number of OBD2 with Bluetooth capability that you're using? I want to make sure I'm getting the correct one that will work. I also have 2017 F150 XLT. I also want to monitor transmission temperature on my phone using this OBD reader. Thanks.
I think this video needs to clarify that the modules are on the MS-CAN bus; neither the video nor the narrative show that. I, like the producer's friend, could not locate the IPC modules because we had incompatible adapters. The OBDLink SX adapter that I bought cannot access MS-CAN bus where the IPC modules are, it only reads HS-CAN, probably like the friend's adapter does. So I spent $40 on an adapter that couldn't solve my problem and had to take my truck to the dealer today and pay $165 to have them do it because I don't have time to chase a compatible adapter down; I need my truck trailer ready by tomorrow afternoon. My fault for procrastinating and not doing complete research to verify which bus the modules are on and the type of adapter required to modify. Maybe this will save someone else my misfortune.
Alix, Did you get it to work though on your Expedition switching to MS-Scan? Or did you have to go to the dealer too? Jeff Storm, did the dealer get the module enabled for you? My dealer says it can't be done on a 2017 Expedition, unless Trailer brake controller was installed from factory. My Trailer Brake controller is a FORD manufactured TBC and they said it couldn't be done. MY OBD2 coming in the mail does both MS and HS-CAN. Will it work?
Don Plata ... i am taking it to the ford dealer. After wasting 5-6 hours trying to navigate the software with the ford package, I have come to the conclusion that the module software in the 2018s is not compatible with this version and will not let me change anything much less see anything that would remotely let me toggle. It came down to what my time is worth. After blowing 75 bucks on the scanner and another 75 on the ford upgrade, I said screw it and had to drop another 150 to get the dealer to do it.
Don Plata - yes, they got it programmed correctly and it works perfectly. I'm still pissed that they charged me over $170 to do it though. Probably took them 5 to 10 minutes. They even charged me a $25 "shop fee" which I raised hell about. The service writer wouldn't remove that charge, only discounted it. I will never use AutoNation Ford Littleton again for anything!
When I go into IPC module I only have option of trailer brake controller to enable, no trailer brake control gain option to enable. Can't get my controller to work looks like I have all fuses needed to work. Any ideas ?
Do you need to install the controller to turn the gain on? I ask because I rarely use my truck to tow but it would be nice to set the gain through the cluster and not need the physical controller. So is the hardware required for the gain function I guess?
Hi Patrick, yes you'll need the controller in order to access the gain settings. I purchased this one from the dealer, which wasn't too expensive. I've seen them for less on Ebay and Amazon. However, the dealer wanted way too much just to turn on the setting.
Hey Mid-Life! Appreciate your video as it has gotten me this far. However, Im wondering if anyone had any issues with the TBC actually working after performing the install? I followed the video and have enabled both the controller itself as well as the gain in the IPC module. They both show up on the dash and the truck IS fused so power is going to it. My issue is the controller actually performing its job. It shows up on the screen, but I don't think it's working. When I plug a trailer in and try to either adjust the gain or use the manual slider nothing happens. I have no option to set the actual gain as the +/- don't do anything. I have gone in with Forscan and disabled and re-enabled both these settings again just in case but still no luck... Anyone have similar symptoms. Are you able to adjust the gain on your screen without a trailer being connected? Thanks in advance!
Do you need the controller installed first for this to work? Why I asked is because I wanted to make sure I could enable it first to see if my obd reader worked. When I tried to enable it gets to 70% then stops and says in the log “service procedure has been interrupted “
Michael Smith, yes, you'll need to install the controller first. Once activated, connect a trailer and press the brake. In the trailer connect screen you'll see the gain settings light up.
can i buy a cheap obd adapter (direct connect, non bluetooth - my laptop doesn't have it) on eBay ($7-10) to do this? I read somewhere that cheap ones often don't work. Wondering why if it's a simple wire connection from port to laptop ...
Hi Chris, yes, the extended license is necessary to access this feature. However, obtaining the extended license is very easy, just follow the directions on the Forscan website.
i have a 2018 5.0L f150. i don't have a trailer brake controller installed yet, but can I activate the mod and then when I install it will it work? Thanks
I have a 2018 F150 and I just ran into the same problem it turns out that the computer is very sensitive to the trailer wiring so all trailer wiring needs to be in good shape no rust no corrosion if so you need to clean it that will remedy most problems with the system
Anthony Putney reading from the Roush website, they're offering a ECM reprogram, not you're standard tuner or reprogramer which mostly are plug and play. I'm not sure if Forscan can do this, the Forscan Blog may offer a better idea. Let me know your results after install.
Bikerdad316 don't have money for it now but I did just buy the hill descent button from the FX4 and I'm going to see if I can activate it my obd comes in tonight
@@ryanrussow1901 Not sure if you figured this out or not, but your OBD Link needs to support MSCAN. If it doesn't the only modules you will see are APIM , DCDC, PAM, BdyCm, FCIM, and TRM.
This is unbelievable you have to do all this nonsense, my Silverado had a damn plug under the dash and boom it worked.....why do you have to do all this fuckin nonsense on fords
Thanks for the video. Very helpful. I did this for my 2015 2.7L. The steps are the same as in the video above, but you only need to activate one setting - the trailer brake control gain module. There are not two options to enable, just one on a model year 2015. I did this with a VINT ELM 327 USB model that I got on amazon for 19$. Worked perfectly. My ford dealership would not even give me a price to activate it because it "wasnt quite as simple" as I described.
Thank you very much for the video. Got quoted an HOUR of labor at the dealership-- $148. Took me about 2 minutes to do this with your video. Thanks!!
My truck does not have the IPC module either. Since IPC stands for 'Instrument Panel Control' one would have a feature on the instrument panel to control features, i.e. Trailer Brake Control. Since my F-150 is a 2010, it does not have this feature. I believe this was implemented in the 2012 year and up.
That being said, I was troubleshooting my 7-way plug because my electric brakes on my camper would not engage when pressing the brake pedal. They engaged if I manually engaged them by squeezing the lever on the factory TBC (trailer brake controller) on my instrument panel (lower right region from the steering wheel.) A voltage reading on the electric brake pin-out on the 7-way connector, yielded only mV with the brake pedal pressed and 12V with the TBC lever engaged.
Today I snooped in to the truck's chip with an OBD2 Adapter via FORScan. As I stated in my opening paragraph, I did not see the IPC module but I did find a single line for TBC (Trailer Brake Controller). While poking around the software, I discovered the means to reset the module. It was fairly straight forward in the reset proces...just followed the onscreen prompts.
After it was reset, I disconnected the adapter and had the wife press the brake pedal. Lo and behold...I got a reading of 12V. I didn't have the time to connect my camper and test if the brakes are now going to work while towing...so that is something I will try this weekend. I am fairly confident this has solved my 'electric brakes not engaging' issue.
I hope this is helpful to the next poor fellow dealing with the same issue.
Peace.
Great Video. Thanks. It made it much easier after I realized that you were using FORScan software with an extended license instead of the native software that comes with the OBDLink device.
Thanks !Between Forscan FTE and your video everything went well
Thank you sir. I really appreciate you
just followed this, worked perfectly. Thank you Sir!
Worked like a charm, thank you.
I have a 2018 Expedition max with the 3.5l Ecoboost. We have to install our own Ford brake controller. I am having a hell of a time doing what you are doing to toggle the modules. I have even bought the Ford upgraded tool for OBDWiz. My screens look nothing like yours and have no idea how to continue. Any assistance appreciated.
Does your truck have the Trailer Module (TRM) module? Mine has that setting disabled since I don't have one, but it's listed.
i was just doing my 2019 and i have a third option that says trailer brake module should that be on also?
Have purchased the same vehicle recently and was looking for a way to activate an added TBC switch. This should do the trick.
Where do you go to change the DRL settings, I read that you can set the halo strip for the anzo switch back headlights, I own these and would like to set them
!Hello all. Can I turn on remote start in the cluster or do I have to go to the dealer $$$$. Also this truck has hill descent button from the FX4 but not seeing anything in cluster, maybe there isn't suppose to be anything there. Thanks for doing this video & for all of the responses!
Hi thanks for the video
What obd did you use thank
So on my 17’ I’m not getting the Gain Setting. I enabled the Trailer Brake Control Module but there isn’t a gain option.
What type of pcm plug in deal are you using and where do you get the software you were showing in this video
Awesome video, thanks..
Just got my new 2017 F150 with trailer package but no TBC. so I bought one from ebay and trying to install myself. After installing the device, i just need to follow this video? Do I not need to take it to Ford deal for more activation? If not then how can know installation activation was successful?
Thanks,
-Joe
jong-hyun joe, just follow the video and you'll be fine. No need to visit the dealer!
Great video saved me from having the dealer do it! They wanted $150 plus taxes and fees?
rob D, that was my motivation! $150 for the part and then my dealer wanted $200 to reprogram! Absolutely ridiculous!
I have a 2017 F150 4x4 Supercrew 2.7L V6 6 speed automatic with Trailer Tow Package. I have installed the Trailer Brake Controller and now activating the configuration settings.
I am using an OBDLink SX with an old laptop computer running Windows XP OS. The driver for the USB connection has been successfully installed and the computer/OBDLink is successfully communicating. I have downloaded FORScan and have it configured for extended license.
The first thing I notice is the Log file is not a comprehensive as the one shown in the video. I then move to Configuration and Programming. I do not see an IPC module listed. You talk about a friend experiencing this also at 1:25. I also do not see any heading such as HSCAN, MSCAN, HSCAN2, HSCAN3.
Any ideas why I do not see an IPC module to enable the Trailer Brake Controller configuration setting?
The vehicle is equipped with MS CAN bus in addition to the regular HS CAN bus. MS CAN bus is not supported by the stock ELM327 (OBDLink SX) module. There is a hardware work around for this but it is up to the operator to make the modifications.
The OBDLink MX that is recommended in the video does support MS-CAN and SW-CAN.
Same issue here in my 2015
I just bought a 2017 XL, 3.5 Ecoboost Supercrew with the STX pacakge. The truck has the trailer hitch, but no TBC. The trailer I use on a daily basis is a 2012 United, 6X10 cargo trailer with electric brakes. the trailer of course has a 7 pin connector. When I hook up the 7 pin connector from the trailer to the truck, the truck recognizes the trailer on the display. As I don't have a TBC in the truck there's no way to change the gain setting. When I go to pull the truck, the electric trailer brakes are engaging to the point of almost locking up. The local Ford dealer told me that the wires in the trailer 7 pin connector are wired incorrectly. So I cut off the original, sealed, 7 pin connector that came with the trailer from United and replaced it with a new aftermarket 7 pin connector. It was wired with each wire going to the correct pin location in the connector. I plug it in to the truck again, same problem, trailer brakes engage. I checked to insure that the 12 volt power and trailer brake wires are correct in the trailer 7 pin connector and everything is correct. The only way I can get the trailer to roll without the trailer brakes engaging is to disconnect the trailer brake and 12 volt wires in the trailer 7 pin connector. Any ideas what may be causing the problem?
did you find out your problem a friend is having same issues
todd dunham never did. I ended up disconnecting the trailer brake wire at the trailer connector.
Hi, great video. Which forscan program do i need to download for windows to be able to enable my brake controller, thanks again. Tim
Just curious, I did all the steps, enabled everything, trailer brakes work bit when I adj the gain on the controller it says no active trailer even with the trailer connected to truck. Is this normal. It's been driving me nuts, thanks
If my truck is tuned, do I need to load the stock file first or doesn’t matter? Thanks
Maybe the ELM 327 I bought isn't correct because it doesn't have the IPC.
Can the normal guy do this, or do you need a special program?
Hello there. Thanks for the video. Can you let me know the part number of OBD2 with Bluetooth capability that you're using? I want to make sure I'm getting the correct one that will work. I also have 2017 F150 XLT. I also want to monitor transmission temperature on my phone using this OBD reader. Thanks.
I think this video needs to clarify that the modules are on the MS-CAN bus; neither the video nor the narrative show that. I, like the producer's friend, could not locate the IPC modules because we had incompatible adapters. The OBDLink SX adapter that I bought cannot access MS-CAN bus where the IPC modules are, it only reads HS-CAN, probably like the friend's adapter does. So I spent $40 on an adapter that couldn't solve my problem and had to take my truck to the dealer today and pay $165 to have them do it because I don't have time to chase a compatible adapter down; I need my truck trailer ready by tomorrow afternoon. My fault for procrastinating and not doing complete research to verify which bus the modules are on and the type of adapter required to modify. Maybe this will save someone else my misfortune.
Jeff Storm same issue here in '18 Expedition ecoboooost. I struggled with this literally all night last night
Alix, Did you get it to work though on your Expedition switching to MS-Scan? Or did you have to go to the dealer too? Jeff Storm, did the dealer get the module enabled for you? My dealer says it can't be done on a 2017 Expedition, unless Trailer brake controller was installed from factory. My Trailer Brake controller is a FORD manufactured TBC and they said it couldn't be done. MY OBD2 coming in the mail does both MS and HS-CAN. Will it work?
Don Plata ... i am taking it to the ford dealer. After wasting 5-6 hours trying to navigate the software with the ford package, I have come to the conclusion that the module software in the 2018s is not compatible with this version and will not let me change anything much less see anything that would remotely let me toggle.
It came down to what my time is worth. After blowing 75 bucks on the scanner and another 75 on the ford upgrade, I said screw it and had to drop another 150 to get the dealer to do it.
Don Plata - yes, they got it programmed correctly and it works perfectly. I'm still pissed that they charged me over $170 to do it though. Probably took them 5 to 10 minutes. They even charged me a $25 "shop fee" which I raised hell about. The service writer wouldn't remove that charge, only discounted it. I will never use AutoNation Ford Littleton again for anything!
im not showing the IPC either...you know a fix for this?
When I go into IPC module I only have option of trailer brake controller to enable, no trailer brake control gain option to enable. Can't get my controller to work looks like I have all fuses needed to work. Any ideas ?
I just bought a 2017 F150. Do I need this for the brake controller to work after I install it?
Yes, you’ll either have to do this or pay a dealership to flash them computer. Sadly, this component is not plug and play.
Whats the difference for 2015?
Do you need to install the controller to turn the gain on? I ask because I rarely use my truck to tow but it would be nice to set the gain through the cluster and not need the physical controller. So is the hardware required for the gain function I guess?
Hi Patrick, yes you'll need the controller in order to access the gain settings. I purchased this one from the dealer, which wasn't too expensive. I've seen them for less on Ebay and Amazon. However, the dealer wanted way too much just to turn on the setting.
Hey Mid-Life! Appreciate your video as it has gotten me this far. However, Im wondering if anyone had any issues with the TBC actually working after performing the install? I followed the video and have enabled both the controller itself as well as the gain in the IPC module. They both show up on the dash and the truck IS fused so power is going to it. My issue is the controller actually performing its job. It shows up on the screen, but I don't think it's working. When I plug a trailer in and try to either adjust the gain or use the manual slider nothing happens. I have no option to set the actual gain as the +/- don't do anything. I have gone in with Forscan and disabled and re-enabled both these settings again just in case but still no luck... Anyone have similar symptoms. Are you able to adjust the gain on your screen without a trailer being connected? Thanks in advance!
Program is asking for a extended license .... what program exactly u use sr... thanks
FORScan is the program. You can read on their website how to get the extended license.
Do you need the controller installed first for this to work? Why I asked is because I wanted to make sure I could enable it first to see if my obd reader worked. When I tried to enable it gets to 70% then stops and says in the log “service procedure has been interrupted “
Michael Smith, yes, you'll need to install the controller first. Once activated, connect a trailer and press the brake. In the trailer connect screen you'll see the gain settings light up.
YES
This is what i'm using and it works good.
bbfly-BB77105 ELM327 WiFi Modified FORScan HS-CAN/MS-CAN Ford
can i buy a cheap obd adapter (direct connect, non bluetooth - my laptop doesn't have it) on eBay ($7-10) to do this? I read somewhere that cheap ones often don't work. Wondering why if it's a simple wire connection from port to laptop ...
Jeff Storm as long as it can connect to your computer, it should work.
Do you still have to have the box inside
Stephens Boone if you’re referring to the OBD reader, yes you still have to have it.
Did you have to use the extended license key to add this feature?
Hi Chris, yes, the extended license is necessary to access this feature. However, obtaining the extended license is very easy, just follow the directions on the Forscan website.
Thank you sir for the quick response!
is the extended license free?
Can I buy the OBDlink MX with my laptop? Or will I need to software?
VNLWISE, the OBD link will have to purchased seperately; however, the software can be downloaded for free from Forescan.
Every time i press brakes it shows me trailer disconnected even the trailer is connected
Thanks it work!!!
Do you have to pay for forscan
It has been about 5 years since I made this video. At that time, Forscan was free as was the necessary license.
i have a 2018 5.0L f150. i don't have a trailer brake controller installed yet, but can I activate the mod and then when I install it will it work? Thanks
I don’t think this method would work. I believe the TBC has to already be installed.
@@mid-lifesomething6695 Thanks
Why u trying to changed. ...sorry you need an extended license to run this function? ?
I have a f450 dually 2018 lights work truck will not recognize trailer. Chevy and Dodge recognize the same trailer. What is wrong with my truck
Ford maybe? but they intentionally make it difficult for us XLT buyers to tow !
even though I bought the 3.4 10 speed twin echo
I have a 2018 F150 and I just ran into the same problem it turns out that the computer is very sensitive to the trailer wiring so all trailer wiring needs to be in good shape no rust no corrosion if so you need to clean it that will remedy most problems with the system
Hi what’s the link to download forscan
forscan.org/home.html
I try several time and it just said licence required help please
Sti Sti you are correct. You have to download the extended license from the site. It is free and takes just a minute or two.
@@mid-lifesomething6695 This does NOT take a minute or two. You need to apply for an account and then wait to be verified by an admin.
Can this be used to download the roush performance pack the kit said it needs to be done at the dealer
Anthony Putney, I'm not sure about that one. I've actually had the same idea, but haven't found an answer yet. When I found out I'll post here.
Bikerdad316 I have the same truck as you and I'm getting ready to buy this program really excited anything I need to look out for
Anthony Putney reading from the Roush website, they're offering a ECM reprogram, not you're standard tuner or reprogramer which mostly are plug and play. I'm not sure if Forscan can do this, the Forscan Blog may offer a better idea. Let me know your results after install.
Bikerdad316 don't have money for it now but I did just buy the hill descent button from the FX4 and I'm going to see if I can activate it my obd comes in tonight
hill decent works
2.7L?
Yes, 2.7L
Yes, 2.7L
@@mid-lifesomething6695 is that a 4 cyl ecoboost?
Did some research i had no idea ford had a 2.7L V6 in the f150. Great video. Thank you im putting a brake controller on my ecpedition.
i don’t have my IPC module some one knows what the problem?
Did you ever figure this out? I am not showing IPC as an option either? 2019 F150 XLT
@@ryanrussow1901 Not sure if you figured this out or not, but your OBD Link needs to support MSCAN. If it doesn't the only modules you will see are APIM
, DCDC, PAM, BdyCm, FCIM, and TRM.
Anyone tried this with a 2021?
I'm on the same boat.--Just ordered the break controller and the OBD adapter. Any success on your end?
@@fikkytikkitavi my wiring for the 7pin has been backordered for months...
This is unbelievable you have to do all this nonsense, my Silverado had a damn plug under the dash and boom it worked.....why do you have to do all this fuckin nonsense on fords
Does the trailer brake controller work for the 2010 model so i don’t have to take it to the dealership?