When it comes to trailer safety, brakes are one of the most critical components. If you’re shopping for a trailer or upgrading your current setup, understanding the difference between electric trailer brakes and surge (hydraulic) brakes can help you make the right choice for your towing needs.
In this guide, we break down how each system works, their pros and cons, and how to identify which braking system your trailer uses.
What Are Electric Trailer Brakes?
Electric brakes use a brake controller in your tow vehicle to send power to electromagnets inside each brake assembly. When you press the brake pedal, the controller sends a signal to activate the trailer’s brakes, slowing it down in sync with your vehicle.
Electric brake controllers like the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 are commonly used for reliable control and easy adjustability.
Pros of Electric Brakes
- ◦ Adjustable Braking: Fine-tune the braking force for different loads and driving conditions.
- ◦ Smooth Stops: Proportional controllers provide gradual, even braking.
- ◦ Easy Maintenance: Electric brake systems are easier to repair and service compared to hydraulic systems
- ◦ Legal Compliance: Easier to meet trailer brake laws, including breakaway brake requirements (FMCSA §393.43).
Cons of Electric Brakes
- ◦ Requires Brake Controller: You must install a compatible controller in your vehicle.
- ◦ Wiring Vulnerability: Exposed wiring may wear out over time or become damaged.
- ◦ Manual Adjustments in Some Scenarios: Reversing may require manual disengagement unless your system has auto-reverse backing plates.
What Are Surge Trailer Brakes?
Surge brakes, also known as hydraulic brakes, are self-contained systems that don’t require any electrical connection. As your tow vehicle slows, the trailer pushes forward, compressing a hydraulic actuator in the coupler. That pressure applies the brakes.
Surge brakes are common on boat trailers due to their water resistance and simple design.
Perfect for marine use, surge brakes are designed to handle submersion without damage. Learn more from BoatUS.
Pros of Surge Brakes
- ◦ Simple Setup: No wiring or controller required.
- ◦ Automatic Operation: Braking is handled by the trailer’s momentum—no user input needed.
- ◦ Waterproof Design: Ideal for boat trailers or any trailer exposed to wet environments.
Cons of Surge Brakes
- ◦ No Independent Control: You can’t activate the brakes manually to prevent sway or slow down on descents.
- ◦ Less Effective for Heavy Loads: Surge brakes respond with delay and may not offer the control needed for large cargo.
- ◦ No Breakaway System: Most surge systems don’t include emergency braking if the trailer detaches—this could make them non-compliant in some states.
How to Tell What Kind of Brakes Your Trailer Has
Not sure what braking system your trailer uses? Here's how to tell:
- ◦ Electric Brakes: Look for wiring near the wheels and a brake controller inside your vehicle. You'll also find brake magnets behind the hubs.
- ◦ Surge Brakes: Check for a hydraulic actuator on the tongue of the trailer. If there's a spring-loaded coupler, it's likely surge.
Still not sure? Check out this helpful guide from etrailer.com on brake system types.
Electric vs. Surge: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Electric Brakes | Surge Brakes |
| Control | Full driver control via controller | Automatic, no manual input |
| Ideal Use | Utility, RV, enclosed, and heavy-duty trailers | Boat and rental trailers |
| Submersion Ready | Not ideal unless sealed | Yes — marine-ready |
| Legal Compliance | Often includes required breakaway system | May lack breakaway feature |
| Installation | Requires wiring and a brake controller in tow vehicle | Simple coupler-based hydraulic setup |
Which Braking System Should You Choose?
At Load’em Up Trailers, we work with a variety of trailer types and customers—so here’s our recommendation:
- ◦ Choose Electric Brakes if you want full control, tow on steep terrain, haul heavy loads, or need to comply with state and federal regulations.
- ◦ Choose Surge Brakes if you're launching boats, towing lighter loads, or want a plug-and-play system with minimal setup.
Still not sure? We can help. Contact us for expert advice or visit us to see the systems in action.
Need Help Choosing or Servicing Your Brakes?
Whether you're upgrading your current trailer or looking for the right setup for your next build,
Load’em Up Trailers has you covered.
Located in Carver, MN
Call us: 952-594-9054
Explore our trailers, parts, and service options today.