Product Overview
The CURT Discovery NEXT is a powerful, compact, and user-friendly electric trailer brake controller designed for reliable operation of your trailer's electric brakes from within your vehicle's cabin. It features a sleek, low-profile design and offers fully adjustable settings to adapt to various vehicle-trailer configurations. This controller is an upgraded version of the highly regarded Discovery brake controller, compatible with a wide range of brake systems including low-volt, PWM, ABS, cruise control, and electric over hydraulic brakes. Its easy-to-read display provides comprehensive full-text diagnostics and adjustable brightness for optimal visibility.
Key Features
- Compact & Efficient Design: Provides dependable operation of electric trailer brakes.
- Broad Compatibility: Controls up to 8 brakes (4 axles) and works with 12V vehicle systems, including electric over hydraulic brakes.
- Customizable Tow Settings: Time-delay controller with adjustable power and ramp time, along with gain and load settings for precise calibration.
- Slim, Low-Profile: Modern aesthetic that integrates seamlessly into your vehicle's interior, saving space.
- Easy Setup & Use: No internal moving parts, can be mounted at any angle. Features full-text diagnostics for simplified troubleshooting.
Setup and Installation
The CURT Discovery NEXT brake controller is designed for straightforward installation. It is a plug-and-play unit when used with a vehicle-specific quick plug harness (sold separately). The absence of internal moving parts allows for flexible mounting at any angle within your vehicle. A unique mounting bracket is included to enhance clearance and ensure an unobtrusive installation.

Image: The sleek design of the Discovery NEXT allows for improved dash clearance during installation.

Image: Quick plug equipped for plug-and-play installation with a vehicle-specific harness (sold separately).
Operating Instructions
The Discovery NEXT is a time-delay brake controller, meaning it applies trailer brakes based on a pre-set time delay after the vehicle's brakes are engaged. It offers fully adjustable power and ramp time settings, allowing you to fine-tune the braking response to match your specific towing requirements. You can also adjust gain and load settings for optimal performance with different trailers and loads.
- Power Adjustment: Controls the maximum braking power delivered to the trailer.
- Ramp Time Adjustment: Determines how quickly the braking power reaches its maximum level.
- Gain Setting: Adjusts the sensitivity of the brake application.
- Load Setting: Calibrates the controller for the weight of the trailer.
The unit features a large, easy-to-read LCD display that provides real-time information about your brake settings. The adjustable brightness and day-night mode ensure optimal visibility in all lighting conditions. The controller is capable of managing the braking system for 2 to 8 trailers, accommodating 1 to 4 axles.

Image: The large LCD display provides a clean, easy-to-read interface with full-text readout for current settings.

Image: Features and benefits of the Discovery NEXT, highlighting its slim profile, fully adjustable power and ramp time, day-night mode, adjustable brightness, and multiple settings.
Maintenance
The CURT Discovery NEXT brake controller is designed with no internal moving parts, which minimizes the need for regular maintenance. Keep the unit clean and ensure all connections are secure and free from corrosion. Periodically inspect the wiring harness for any signs of wear or damage.
Troubleshooting
The Discovery NEXT features comprehensive full-text diagnostics displayed on its LCD screen, which simplifies troubleshooting. If an issue arises, refer to the diagnostic messages on the display for guidance. For persistent problems, consult the full troubleshooting guide available from CURT or contact their customer support.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | Discovery NEXT |
| Item Model Number | 51126 |
| Manufacturer | CURT |
| Item Weight | 9.6 ounces |
| Product Dimensions | 8.13 x 5.38 x 2.75 inches |
| Country of Origin | Mexico |
| Brake/Axle Compatibility | 2-8 Brakes / 1-4 Axles |
| Activation System | Time-Delay |
| Display | Large LCD with Full-Text Diagnostics |
| Mounting Angle | Any |
| Brightness Control | Adjustable, Day/Night Mode |

Image: Approximate dimensions of the CURT Discovery NEXT brake controller.

Image: Comparison of CURT NEXT series brake controllers, highlighting the Discovery NEXT's features such as time activation, 2-8 brakes/1-4 axles compatibility, auto sleep mode, any mounting angle, brightness control, day/night mode, 0.5 output increments, and full text diagnostics.
Warranty Information
Specific warranty details for the CURT Discovery NEXT Electric Trailer Brake Controller are typically provided with the product packaging or can be found on the official CURT website. Please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit curtmfg.com for the most up-to-date warranty policy.
Customer Support
For technical assistance, installation questions, or troubleshooting support, please contact CURT customer service. Contact information can usually be found on the product packaging, the official CURT website, or through your product retailer.





