Ford F-150 2021 Trailer Brake Control Module Installation Instructions
This document provides instructions for installing and configuring the Trailer Brake Control Module (TRM) for the Ford F-150 2021 model. It is essential to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper functionality.
Important Note
It is necessary to replace the existing Trailer Module (TRM) with the one provided in the kit. Failure to do so will result in errors during the TRM configuration process.
Installation Overview
Diagram 1: Interior Console
Shows the vehicle's interior dashboard, highlighting the center console area with drive mode selectors and other controls.
Diagram 2: Components
Illustrates key components: C: The Trailer Brake Control Module itself, with labels indicating functions like "LAMPS", "LH STOP TURN", "BACKUP LAMPS", "ELECTRIC BRAKES". D: A warning symbol with the text "READ MANUAL", indicating the need to consult the manual. E: The rear bumper assembly of the vehicle. F: The wiring harness for the trailer connection.
Diagram 3: Physical Installation (Steps 4-7)
Details the physical installation process: Step 4: Shows access to the vehicle's fuse box area. Steps 5 & 6: Depict the mounting of the Trailer Brake Control Module (labeled 'C') into a bracket (labeled 'B') on the vehicle body, using a 10mm tool (?). Step 7: Shows the rear bumper assembly being prepared for attachment.
Diagram 4: Wiring and Final Assembly (Steps 8-12)
Illustrates the final stages of installation: Step 8: Shows the wiring harness (F) being connected to the rear bumper assembly. Step 9: Depicts the Trailer Brake Control Module (C) being connected to the wiring harness on the bumper assembly. Step 10: Shows the wiring harness being connected to the rear bumper assembly. Step 11: Illustrates the rear bumper assembly being attached to the vehicle. Step 12: Shows the completed installation on the rear of the Ford F-150, with the module visible and the trailer hitch.
Configuration Procedure using Ford Diagnostic Repair System (FDRS)
Important Warning
DO NOT RUN PMI OR TRM Configuration. This procedure is different from vehicles originally equipped with the TRM.
Configuration Steps:
- Open the Ford Diagnostic Repair System (FDRS) ? and identify the vehicle.
- Navigate to the Toolbox ?.
- Select the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC).
- Check the IPC for software updates.
- Update the IPC if an update is available.
- Download and run the IPC-Towbar Configuration.
- Select "Fixed Towbar".
- Select the genuine Ford module.
- Follow the on-screen prompts.
- Select the liftgate type.
- Follow the on-screen prompts.
- After successful completion, select "Exit" to end the configuration.
- Select the Body Control Module (BCM).
- Select "BCM-Towbar Configuration".
- Verify that the vehicle was built without Class IV trailer tow; select "Yes" (✔️).
- Select "Fixed Towbar".
- Follow the on-screen prompts to complete programming.
- After successful completion, select "Exit" to end the configuration.
- Scan and clear any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
- Validate the installation: Ensure trailer gain is present or a message indicating "Trailer Disconnected" ⚠️ is displayed in the IPC when the TBC switch is pressed.
- To initialize the towing menu on the SYNC screen: Turn the vehicle off and manually turn the lights off. The menu will appear when the vehicle's ignition is turned on after a trailer is connected.