Imagine your trailer detaching from your vehicle on a busy highway. Without a working emergency brake, that scenario could lead to a dangerous runaway trailer. A reliable breakaway system is your safety net, automatically applying the trailer’s brakes if it becomes disconnected.
This guide reviews five essential emergency brake components and kits to help you choose the right protection for your trailer. Whether you need a simple switch or a complete battery kit, we cover the key features to keep your towing safe and secure.
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CURT 52010 Trailer Breakaway Switch with Nylon Pull Pin and Metal Tab
Best forSimple switch replacement
- Silver contact points
- Easy to mount
ConsiderBattery not included
BUNKER INDUST Trailer Brake Breakaway Kit with Charger, LED Display, Switch...
Best forComplete all-in-one kit
- Includes battery and switch
- LED charge indicator
ConsiderBattery may need replacement
Side Load Trailer Breakaway Kit with Battery, Breakaway Switch, Breakaway C...
Best forDOT-compliant complete setup
- Meets DOT requirements
- Built-in battery charger
ConsiderSide-load box may be tight
Kohree Trailer Brake Breakaway Kit
Best forWeather-resistant outdoor use
- Waterproof and corrosion-resistant
- Long-lasting 5Ah battery
ConsiderHousing may be bulky
CURT 52020 Replacement Trailer Breakaway Switch Lanyard
Best forReplacement lanyard cable
- 48-inch length
- High-temp nylon material
ConsiderOnly the cable, no switch
CURT 52010 Trailer Breakaway Switch – Reliable Safety
Brand: CURT
A dependable, easy-to-install switch for existing breakaway systems.
The CURT 52010 is a straightforward breakaway switch designed for safer towing. It connects your vehicle to the trailer’s breakaway battery and brakes, activating them if the trailer becomes disconnected. The silver contact points ensure a dependable electrical connection, which is crucial for immediate brake engagement when you need it most.
Installation is simple thanks to the metal mounting tab with a pre-drilled hole for a screw or bolt. The included nylon pull pin and looped cable make attachment to your tow vehicle quick and secure. This switch is a solid, no-fuss choice if you already have a breakaway battery and just need the switch component.
- Silver contact points
- Easy to mount
- Includes pull pin and cable
- Battery not included
- Basic design only
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- RELIABLE SAFETY. This trailer breakaway switch offers safer towing by connecting your vehicle to your trailer's breakaway battery and trailer brakes. If the trailer becomes disconnected while towing, the cable is released and the brakes are engaged
- STRONG CONNECTION. To ensure a dependable electrical connection for the wires, this trailer breakaway switch is equipped with silver contact points
- EASY TO INSTALL. Mounting this trailer breakaway switch on your trailer is easy. It comes with a metal mounting tab with a pre-drilled hole to accept a screw or bolt
- SECURE ATTACHMENT. The included trailer breakaway cable features a nylon pull pin for easy release and a looped end to quickly and securely attach to your trailer hitch
- WEATHER-RESISTANT. To keep the breakaway switch well-protected from the outdoor elements, it comes with a nylon case that will not rust or corrode
BUNKER INDUST Trailer Brake Breakaway Kit – Complete System
Brand: BUNKER INDUST
A convenient, complete kit with easy battery status checks.
The BUNKER INDUST kit provides a complete breakaway solution for trailers with existing electric brakes. It includes the breakaway unit, a 12V 5Ah battery, and a breakaway switch, all in one package. If your trailer separates from the tow vehicle, this system activates the brakes to ensure a safe stop.
A handy push-to-test feature uses LEDs to indicate whether the battery is fully charged, charging, or needs a recharge. This takes the guesswork out of maintenance, so you always know your system is ready. It’s an all-in-one package that simplifies setup and gives you peace of mind on the road.
- Includes battery and switch
- LED charge indicator
- Push-to-test function
- Battery may need replacement
- Charger not built-in
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- For use on trailers with an existing electric brake system
- Activates trailers brakes upon separation from tow vehicle to ensure a safe stop of the trailer
- Push to Test: LED's indicate fully charged, charging or (needs) recharge
- Complete system includes: Break Away Unit,Battery&Break Away Switch
- Quick and easy installation,side-mount installation design.Weather and corrosion resistant
Superior Trailer Products Side Load Breakaway Kit – DOT Ready
Brand: Superior Trailer Products
A durable, regulation-ready kit with a built-in charger and steel cable.
This Superior Trailer Products kit meets DOT requirements and includes everything you need: a 5-amp-hour battery, breakaway switch, breakaway cable, built-in charger, side-load battery box, and wiring. The built-in charger keeps the battery topped up while connected to your tow vehicle, so you’re always prepared.
The breakaway switch easily connects to your trailer wiring and activates the electric brakes upon disconnection. The braided steel cable outlasts plastic versions, ensuring durability in emergencies. With a push-to-test button that shows battery level, this kit offers a robust, regulation-compliant solution for serious trailer owners.
- Meets DOT requirements
- Built-in battery charger
- Braided steel cable
- Side-load box may be tight
- Wiring instructions basic
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- Trailer Breakaway Kit includes: 5-amp-hour battery, breakaway switch, breakaway cable, built in charger, side load battery box and wiring. Meets DOT Requirements.
- Trailer Breakaway Battery : 12V5Ah rechargeable battery with built in battery charger that charges the battery while connected to tow vehicle. Push to test button shows battery level with LED lights.
- Trailer Breakaway Switch : Easily connects to your trailer wiring kit and trailer brakes. Activates your trailer's electric brakes if the trailer disconnects from the tow vehicle.
- Trailer Breakaway Cable : Braided steel cable outlasts plastic versions ensuring you are always prepared for emergency situations. 4' long breakaway cable.
- Trailer Battery Box : Durable, heavy duty polymer plastic case protects the battery from the elements. Box dimensions: 3-3/4" long x 6" wide x 5" tall.
Kohree Trailer Brakes Breakaway Kit – Weatherproof Protection
Brand: Kohree
A rugged, weatherproof kit with excellent battery life and clear status feedback.
The Kohree breakaway kit offers secure towing protection by activating the trailer brakes upon disconnection. Its weatherproof housing is made of reinforced plastic that resists water and corrosion, making it ideal for harsh outdoor environments. The internal battery is well-protected, ensuring long-term reliability.
Equipped with a 12V 5Ah battery and an LED indicator that shows charging, recharge, or fully charged status, this kit keeps you informed. A full charge lasts for months of standby use. The side-mount design with pre-drilled holes and included hardware makes installation flexible and easy, perfect for trailers exposed to the elements.
- Waterproof and corrosion-resistant
- Long-lasting 5Ah battery
- LED status indicator
- Housing may be bulky
- Cable could be longer
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- SECURE TOWING PROTECTION: This kit provides essential protection when the trailer is towing. It activates brakes upon disconnection from the vehicle, ensuring a controlled stop and reducing accident risks.
- WEATHERPROOF HOUSING: Made of reinforced plastic, this shell is waterproof and corrosion-resistant. It withstands harsh outdoor environments and protects the internal battery from damage.
- LONG-LASTING 5AH BATTERY: Equipped with a 12V 5Ah battery and LED Indicator showing charging, recharge, or fully charged status. A full charge lasts for months of standby use.
- EASY & FLEXIBLE INSTALLATION: Features a side-mount design with pre-drilled mounting holes. Includes a 48-inch cable and a 4-foot coiled cable for versatile attachment.
- COMPLETE PACKAGE: Includes 1x breakaway kit (built-in battery), 1x switch with 48in cable, and 1x replacement 4ft coiled cable.
CURT 52020 Replacement Breakaway Switch Lanyard – Essential Cable
Brand: CURT
A durable, essential replacement cable to keep your breakaway system functional.
The CURT 52020 is a replacement lanyard for your trailer breakaway switch, connecting the tow vehicle to the switch. If the trailer disconnects, the cable releases and activates the trailer brakes. This 48-inch long cable is made from high-temp nylon, offering durability and flexibility in various conditions.
While it’s a simple component, having a reliable lanyard is critical for your breakaway system to function. The looped ends make attachment quick and secure. If your existing cable is worn or broken, this replacement ensures your emergency brake system remains operational without replacing the entire switch.
- 48-inch length
- High-temp nylon material
- Easy to attach
- Only the cable, no switch
- May wear over time
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- Connects tow vehicle to trailer breakaway switch
- Actives trailer brakes when cable is released during a disconnect
- 48-inch long cable
- High-temp nylon pull
- Trailer breakaway battery and system sold separately
Buyer’s Guide: What to Consider
Choosing the right emergency brake for your trailer involves understanding key components. Here are five factors to consider for a safe and reliable setup.
- Breakaway Switch: The switch connects to the tow vehicle via a cable. If the trailer detaches, the cable pulls the pin, activating the brakes. Look for silver contacts for reliable connection.
- Battery and Charger: A 12V 5Ah battery powers the brakes. Built-in chargers keep it topped up while towing. Check for LED indicators that show charge status for easy maintenance.
- Cable Quality: The lanyard must be strong and durable. Braided steel cables outlast plastic ones. A 48-inch length provides enough slack for safe attachment without dragging.
- Housing and Weather Resistance: The battery box should be waterproof and corrosion-resistant, especially for outdoor use. Reinforced plastic housings protect internal components from harsh conditions.
- Compliance and Installation: Ensure the kit meets DOT requirements for legal towing. Look for pre-drilled mounting holes and included hardware for easy installation. Side-mount designs offer flexible placement.
Conclusion
Selecting the best emergency brake for your trailer depends on your needs. For a simple switch, the CURT 52010 is reliable. If you want a complete kit, the BUNKER INDUST or Superior Trailer Products options offer great value.
For weather resistance, the Kohree kit stands out. And don’t forget the CURT lanyard for replacements. Whichever you choose, a functioning breakaway system is essential for safe towing.