Haul with Confidence and Complete Control
Seeing the ‘Service Trailer Brake System’ message on your dash is more than an annoyance—it’s a critical safety alert. When you’re towing heavy loads with your Silverado, Sierra, or Suburban, you depend on your trailer brakes to function flawlessly. A faulty Trailer Brake Control Module (TBCM) compromises that safety, leading to unpredictable braking, or worse, no trailer braking at all. This replacement 2013-2014 Silverado 2500 Trailer Brake Control Module is the definitive solution to restore your truck’s towing integrity and give you back the peace of mind you need on the road.
Common Symptoms & Your Solution
If you’re experiencing any of the following issues, a failing TBCM is the most likely culprit:
- Persistent “Service Trailer Brake System” warning on the Driver Information Center (DIC)
- “Trailer Connected” or “Trailer Disconnected” messages appearing randomly
- No output to the trailer brakes when the manual controller is applied
- Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) such as C1512, C1522, or other related communication faults
This module is not just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We pre-program it to your truck’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before it ships, loading it with the latest software updates from GM. This critical step ensures seamless communication with your truck’s other systems, like the ABS and engine control module, for perfect operation right out of the box.
Features & Benefits
- ✔ VIN-Programmed for Your Truck: Arrives flashed with the latest GM software and coded to your specific vehicle. No expensive trip to the dealership for programming is required!
- ✔ Restores Full Functionality: Eliminates dash warnings and restores precise, reliable control over your trailer’s braking system.
- ✔ Plug-and-Play Installation: Once you receive the programmed module, simply locate your old unit (typically on the driver’s side frame rail), disconnect it, and install the new one.
- ✔ Enhanced Towing Safety: Ensures your trailer brakes engage correctly with your truck’s brakes, providing stable, controlled stops under any load condition.
- ✔ Direct-Fit Replacement: Engineered to be a direct replacement for original part numbers 20850923 and 20964299, guaranteeing a perfect fit.
- ✔ Guaranteed Performance: This unit is backed by our one-year replacement warranty.
Expert Insight: Why VIN Programming is Non-Negotiable
From my 20 years in the shop, I’ve seen countless truck owners try to save a few bucks by installing a used, non-programmed module. It never ends well. On these modern GM trucks, the TBCM is a smart device that’s integrated into the vehicle’s CAN bus network. It needs to speak the exact same language as the ABS, powertrain, and body control modules. Without VIN-specific programming, you’ll get communication errors, persistent warning lights, and—most dangerously—unreliable brake operation. By programming it for you, we ensure it works exactly as the factory intended from the moment you plug it in, saving you time, money, and critical safety risks.
Don’t gamble with your safety or the integrity of your valuable truck and trailer. This professionally programmed 2013-2014 Silverado 2500 Trailer Brake Control Module is the correct, reliable fix to get you back to towing safely and with complete confidence. Provide your VIN after purchase, and we’ll handle the rest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this fix the ‘Service Trailer Brake System’ message?
Yes, in the vast majority of cases, a faulty TBCM is the root cause of this warning. This programmed module is designed to be the direct solution for that issue.
Do I need to take my truck to a dealer after installing this part?
No. Because we pre-program the module to your vehicle’s VIN before shipping, it is a true plug-and-play installation. No further programming or calibration is required.
How do I provide my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to send us a message with your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We cannot ship your order until we receive this information.
Where is this module located on my truck?
On the 2013-2014 Silverado and Sierra pickups, it is typically mounted to the driver’s side frame rail, towards the rear. On the Suburban 2500 and Yukon XL 2500, it’s usually on the driver’s side frame rail, around the middle of the vehicle.
What happens if I install a module that isn’t programmed?
An unprogrammed module will not communicate correctly with your truck’s other computer systems. It will not function, and the warning lights on your dash will remain on. VIN programming is essential.
Does this part work for both gas and diesel trucks?
Yes, this 2013-2014 Silverado 2500 Trailer Brake Control Module fits the listed models regardless of the engine type, as long as the vehicle was equipped with the factory trailer brake system.