Best Brake Trailer Brakes of 2025

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 5, 2025

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Brake trailer brakes are an essential component of any trailer or caravan. These brakes work by applying pressure to the trailer's wheels, helping to slow down or stop the trailer when necessary. They are particularly important when towing heavy loads or traveling on steep inclines. Brake trailer brakes come in a variety of styles and sizes, including electric, hydraulic, and surge brakes. They can be installed on both single and double-axle trailers, and are designed to provide reliable, consistent braking performance in a range of conditions. Whether you're hauling a boat, camper, or construction equipment, brake trailer brakes are an important safety feature that can help keep you and your cargo safe on the road.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

SEHNSUCHT Electric Brake Assembly 12" X 2" Cover #TOP 1
SEHNSUCHT Electric Brake Assembly 12" X 2"
ftb score rating icon 9.8
SEHNSUCHT Electric Brake Kit for Trailers Cover #TOP 2
SEHNSUCHT Electric Brake Kit for Trailers
ftb score rating icon 9.7
AEagle 5 on 4.5" Brake Kit Cover #TOP 3
AEagle 5 on 4.5" Brake Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Brake Trailer Brakes

SEHNSUCHT Electric Brake Assembly 12" X 2"

SEHNSUCHT
BRD010
12" X 2", 2 Pair
SEHNSUCHT Electric Brake Assembly 12" X 2" Cover
Trailer Electric Brakes, 2 Pair of Electric Brake Assembly 12" X 2" for 5200lb 6000lb 7000lb Axle-(Set 4: 2 Left+2 Right)

The SEHNSUCHT Electric Brake Set is designed for optimal performance and safety while towing. With its classic design and proven production experience, these brakes provide quick and reliable emergency stopping power in various tough conditions, ensuring safer travels for you. They are specifically made to fit 12" X 2" trailer axles, accommodating weights from 5200 to 7000 lbs. The assembly is easy to install with a standard 5-hole pattern, although bolts are not included. Additionally, the manufacturer offers solid after-sales support to address any issues, giving you peace of mind during your journeys.

What We Like
Quick emergency stopping power
Fits various trailer axles
Easy installation
Reliable after-sales support
#TOP 2

SEHNSUCHT Electric Brake Kit for Trailers

SEHNSUCHT
BRD008
SEHNSUCHT Electric Brake Kit for Trailers Cover
Trailer Axle Electric Brake Kit, Pair of 8-6.5" Bolt Circle Brake Drum with 12" x 2" Self Adjusting Electric Brakes for 5200-7000 lb Axles, Replacement 12” Brake Hub Drum Assembly

The SEHNSUCHT Brake Kit is designed for durability and efficiency, making it a reliable choice for your trailer needs. Constructed from high-quality iron, the brake drum resists rust and corrosion, ensuring long-lasting performance in various conditions. Its classic design allows for quick emergency braking, enhancing your safety on the road. This kit is specifically tailored for 5200 to 7000 lb axles, providing a perfect fit for your trailer. Additionally, it comes complete with all necessary components, simplifying installation and ensuring you have everything you need for a successful setup.

What We Like
Durable, rust-resistant material
Quick emergency braking
Complete installation kit included
Fits various axle sizes
#TOP 3

AEagle 5 on 4.5" Brake Kit

AEagle
AEBRD004-Q2
AEagle 5 on 4.5" Brake Kit Cover
5 on 4.5" Bolt Circle Drum Kits w/ 10" x 2-1/4" Left and Right Self-Adjusting Electric Brake for 3,500lbs Trailer Axle

The AEagle Brake Kit is designed for 3,500lbs trailer axles, making it compatible with various brands such as Dexter and Lippert. This kit includes everything you need for installation, including brake drums, inner and outer cone bearings, and seals. With its easy installation process, you can quickly set it up without hassle. The high-quality gray cast iron construction ensures durability, while the rust-resistant coating extends its lifespan. Enjoy peace of mind with a 12-month warranty, knowing your brakes have been tested before shipping.

What We Like
Compatible with multiple axle brands
Easy installation process
Durable construction materials
12-month warranty included
#TOP 4

AEagle 12" Electric Trailer Brake

AEagle
AEBRD010-Q4
AEagle 12" Electric Trailer Brake Cover
AEagle 12" x 2" Electric Trailer Brake for 5,200lbs 6,000lbs 7,000lbs Left and Right, 4Pcs

The AEagle Electric Trailer Brake is designed to fit various trailer axles with capacities of 5,200 to 7,000 pounds, making it a versatile choice for your needs. This kit includes both left and right electric brakes, ensuring a complete solution for your trailer. Installation is straightforward, as it adheres to strict automotive standards for ease of use. Additionally, its non-asbestos brake linings provide excellent friction performance, leading to longer-lasting durability and improved braking power, giving you confidence on the road.

What We Like
Easy installation
Versatile compatibility
Durable non-asbestos linings
Enhanced braking performance
12-month warranty
#TOP 5

AEagle 10" Electric Brake Assemblies

AEagle
AEBRD012-Q4
AEagle 10" Electric Brake Assemblies Cover
AEagle 4Pcs 10" x 2-1/4" Electric Trailer Brake Assemblies for 3,500lbs, Left and Right

The AEagle Electric Brake Assemblies are designed for 3,500lbs trailer axles, compatible with several brands like Alko and Dexter. Each kit comes with two left and two right brake assemblies, along with necessary spring pads and nuts for installation. You will appreciate the straightforward installation process, as these assemblies meet strict automotive standards. The non-asbestos brake linings provide excellent friction performance, enhancing the durability and effectiveness of your braking system. Rest assured, these assemblies come with a 12-month warranty and are tested before shipping to ensure quality.

What We Like
Easy installation
Non-asbestos brake linings
12-month warranty
Compatible with various brands
#TOP 6

AEagle Electric Trailer Brake Kit

AEagle
AEBRD009-Q2
AEagle Electric Trailer Brake Kit Cover
AEagle 2Pcs 12" x 2" Electric Trailer Brake for 5,200lbs 6,000lbs 7,000lbs Left and Right

The AEagle Electric Brake Set is designed for trailers with capacities of 5,200 lbs, 6,000 lbs, and 7,000 lbs, ensuring compatibility with various brands like Alko and Dexter. This kit includes both left and right electric brakes along with necessary installation components, making it convenient for you to set up. The brakes feature non-asbestos linings, providing excellent friction performance that enhances your braking efficiency. Additionally, they are built to meet strict automotive standards, ensuring reliability and safety for your towing needs. With easy installation, you can quickly upgrade your trailer's braking system.

What We Like
Compatible with multiple brands
Includes all installation parts
Non-asbestos brake linings
Meets automotive standards
Easy to install
#TOP 7

Southwest Wheel Trailer Axle Electric Brake Kit

BK545ELE
Southwest Wheel Trailer Axle Electric Brake Kit Cover
Southwest Wheel 3,500 lbs. Trailer Axle Electric Brake Kit 5-4.5" Bolt Circle

The Southwest Wheel Brake Kit is a high-quality trailer axle electric brake kit designed to enhance the performance and safety of your trailer. This kit includes a pair of 10" x 2 1/4" TruRyde hub and drums with a 5-4.5" bolt circle, as well as a pair of 10" x 2 1/4" TruRyde electric backing plates. It is compatible with popular trailer axle brands such as Al-Ko, Dexter, Lippert, and Quality Trailer Axles. The TruRyde parts are manufactured to automotive standards in an ISO/TS-16949 registered factory, ensuring durability and reliability. With the included TruRyde bearings, seals, lug nuts, grease caps, cotter pins, and more, this brake kit provides everything you need for a complete brake system. Upgrade your trailer's braking system with the Southwest Wheel Brake Kit for improved safety and peace of mind.

What We Like
High-quality construction
Compatible with popular trailer axle brands
Complete brake system included
#TOP 8

JADODE Trailer Electric Brake Kit

EB12X4
4pcs
12 inches
JADODE Trailer Electric Brake Kit Cover
Trailer Electric Brake Assembly,12" x 2" Electric Brakes Kit for 7000 lbs Axle NOT Self-Adjusting 5-Hole Mounting, Backing Plates Trailer Brake Kit 2 Pairs 23-108-00/23-181-00

The JADODE Electric Brake Kit includes four durable 12" x 2" electric brakes, designed to fit a range of axle sizes, specifically for 5200lbs, 6000lbs, and 7000lbs applications. You will appreciate the compatibility with both 6-lug and 8-lug wheel patterns, making installation straightforward. The bolt hole spacing is optimized for easy mounting, ensuring a secure fit. Importantly, these brakes are not self-adjusting, which means you will need to adjust them post-installation and periodically afterward, allowing for personalized maintenance and performance control.

What We Like
Compatible with multiple axle sizes
Easy installation for various wheel patterns
Secure mounting with optimized spacing
Allows for personalized maintenance
#TOP 9

M-Parts Trailer Brakes - Electric Trailer Brake Kit

TUKIMA
77-12-177-12-2
M-Parts Trailer Brakes - Electric Trailer Brake Kit Cover
M-Parts Trailer Brakes – 2 Pair 12x2 Electric Trailer Brakes, 7,000 lb Trailer Axle - Trailer Brake Kit, Electric Trailer Brakes, Trailer Brake Assembly, 7k Trailer Brakes

The M-Parts Trailer Brakes kit includes 2 pairs of 12x2 electric trailer brakes, designed for 7,000 lb trailer axles. The brake flange has 5 bolts and fits spindle #42. The kit features Dexter style backing plates and is made with high-quality materials. Ideal for trailers in need of brake repairs or upgrades.

What We Like
High-quality materials used in construction
Multiple brake pairs included in kit
Designed for 7,000 lb trailer axles
#TOP 10

TruRyde Self-Adjusting Electric Brakes with Hardware (2-Pack)

23134AUTO-IPS
12 inch
TruRyde Self-Adjusting Electric Brakes with Hardware (2-Pack) Cover
Southwest Wheel 2-Pack 12" X 2" TruRyde Self-adjusting Electric Brakes with Hardware (2 Right Hand + 2 Left Hand)

The TruRyde Self-Adjusting Electric Brakes with Hardware (2-Pack) is a set of 12" x 2" brake assemblies that come with 2 left and 2 right brake assembly. It has a 5 hole mounting that works for 5,200 lbs., 6,000 lbs., and 7,000 lbs. trailer axles. The package comes with all necessary mounting bolts, nuts, and lock washers. Additionally, these brake assemblies work with Al-Ko, Dexter, Lippert, and Quality Trailer Axles. They are manufactured to automotive standards in an ISO/TS-16949 registered factory.

What We Like
Self-adjusting electric brakes
Works with various trailer axles
Comes with all necessary mounting hardware
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do you need a trailer brake controller to use trailer brakes?

Yes, electric trailer brakes require a brake controller to function. If your trailer has electric brakes, you will need a brake controller to tow. However, some trailers have surge brakes, which are hydraulic and operate based on the trailer's weight and momentum.

2. What are the two types of trailer brakes?

There are three major types of trailer brakes: surge brakes, electric brakes, and emergency brakes. Surge brakes are independent of the vehicle's brake system and activate when the vehicle slows down. Electric brakes, on the other hand, require a brake controller to engage. Emergency brakes provide an additional braking mechanism in case of a system failure.

3. What should trailer brake gain be set at?

To determine the trailer brake gain setting, start with a lower setting like 2 or 20 for a lighter load. Start the tow vehicle, apply the manual control toggle, and release the brake. If the vehicle starts moving, the gain is too low. Increase the setting to 4 or 40 and repeat the process until the trailer stops smoothly.

4. What happens if you don't have a trailer brake controller?

Without a trailer brake controller, the tow vehicle's braking system would have to stop both the vehicle and the trailer, which is unsafe and often illegal. A trailer brake controller is necessary to independently control the trailer brakes and ensure safe towing.

5. Do I need a trailer brake controller if I have a 7 pin connector?

Yes, even if your vehicle has a 7-pin trailer connector, it does not engage the trailer brakes. A separate brake controller is required. However, some vehicles may already have a built-in brake controller, in which case you can simply plug your trailer into the provided port.

6. What are the most common trailer brakes?

The most common type of trailer brakes is electric drum brakes. These are standard in the flatbed and utility trailer industry. Electric drum brakes are controlled by an in-cab brake controller that is often included in modern trucks.

7. Do trailer brakes automatically turn on?

When the driver presses the brake pedal, a time-based brake controller activates the trailer brakes and applies increasing power over time. This is known as gain. The gain setting on a time-delay brake controller can be adjusted by the driver to suit each specific trailer.

8. Do trailer brakes work automatically?

Yes, a trailer brake controller automatically engages the trailer brakes when needed. It operates transparently and can also be manually controlled by the driver to check and adjust the trailer brakes or activate them manually if necessary.

9. What PSI should trailer brakes be?

The recommended PSI for trailer brakes is typically between 20-45 psi or as specified by the manufacturer. In a tractor-trailer combination vehicle, the tractor protection valve and parking brake valve should close at the specified PSI. For other combination and single vehicle types, the parking brake valve should close at the specified PSI.

Editor's Notes

During our brake trailer brake research, we found 24 brake trailer brake products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 6,213 customer reviews through our big data system to write the brake trailer brakes list. We found that most customers choose brake trailer brakes with an average price of $176.17.

The brake trailer brakes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of brake trailer brakes, including SEHNSUCHT, AEagle, SOUTHWEST WHEEL, JADODE, TUKIMA. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 201 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Robert Reyes Avatar

Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.