2018 OEM Trailer brake - Steps I used to Install

[Seth21]

Success Installing Trailer Brake controller - Wanted to give the run down.

I used these 2 videos for reference:

Ordered from here:
https://www.fairwayfordparts.net/oe...ake-controller-genuine-ford-parts-jl3z2c006aa

Steps:

1. Pop down trim panel under steering wheel
2. Remove metal plate underneath trim - 4 10mm bolts
3. Reach behind "fake trailer brake bin" and unplug connector
4. Pop up dash upper center storage tray (used a trim tool - took more force than expected)
5. Remove 2 7mm bolts under this tray
6. Grab top of the center dash trim panel (under the storage tray) and pull away from dash
7. Move panel slightly to the right
8. Under AC controls is a small trim piece held on with 2 7mm bolts - I only removed the one on driver side
9. Pull away driver side trim panel that has AC vent and trailer brake mount.
10. At this point, my trim panel did not completely remove and felt hung out around where it gets close to the leather center console piece. I didn't know how to remove center console leather and had just enough room to move forward without doing it.
11. With pull the AC duct trim panel away from dash - was able to wiggle out the "fake trailer brake controller"
12. Then slid in the actual TBC (plus sign goes up)
13. Plugged in TBC
14. Reverse steps for re-assmebly.
15. I noticed the "plus" and "minus" sign lit up when I turned the car on so maybe check that before closing up the part under the steering wheel.
16. Have dealership program the TBC so Expy recognizes it (looks like some people can do this on their own)

Dealership quoted me 400 bucks to do it which honestly isn't that bad considering the unit cost me 90. I have to go in for oil soon so I'm hoping to get them to tack on programming for close to free.

I would estimate it took me 45 minutes - I used only hand tools which slowed me down a tad but I was trying to be extra careful.

Note: Some videos recommend removing a 7mm bolt around the gas pedal and popping that trim piece loose. I did this but it did not appear necessary since I didn't fully remove the AC duct / TBC mount trim panel all the way.

 

[GB19XLT]

Did you take it in to be programmed? Or did you use Forscan?

 

[mquick5]

Did you take it in to be programmed? Or did you use Forscan?

See step #16 in detailed instructions for your answer.

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[AAOO]

Don't pay for this... If it's over $100 you can do it cheaper buying the OBD plug and with the free software.

 

[GB19XLT]

See step #16 in detailed instructions for your answer.

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Yeah got ahead of myself... should’ve read the whole thing lol

 

[ETC13]

Don't pay for this... If it's over $100 you can do it cheaper buying the OBD plug and with the free software.

Not true as Fordscan does not have access to the module needed to program this on a 2018+ Expedition. F-150s while based the same are not the same as this truck in several areas.

 

[AAOO]

Not true as Fordscan does not have access to the module needed to program this on a 2018+ Expedition. F-150s while based the same are not the same as this truck in several areas.

Well that's a bummer!

 

[ETC13]

Not true as Fordscan does not have access to the module needed to program this on a 2018+ Expedition. F-150s while based the same are not the same as this truck in several areas.

Latest Forscan can now access this module and can enable the brake controller (both controller and gain need enabled). So step 16 can now be done without needing a trip to the dealer.

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