Electric brakes for caravans are a smart, worthwhile investment for any caravan setup, resulting in greater control, smoother stops, and added safety when towing. Designed to sync with your vehicle’s braking system, they reduce wear, improve handling, and ensure you're road-legal when towing heavier loads across Australia.
Explore the range of electric brakes and electric brake controllers on this page and view our FAQs below for further information. If you have any other questions or want to learn more about a specific product, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the Autobox team.
FAQs About Electric Brakes
What are Electric Brakes and How Do They Work on a Caravan?
Electric brakes are a type of braking system that is commonly used on caravans, trailers, and other towed vehicles. They work through the use of an electrical signal from the towing vehicle (car, 4WD, etc.) that triggers electromagnets inside the caravan’s drum brakes. activate the brakes of the caravan in conjunction with the tow vehicle.
So, when the driver applies the brakes in their vehicle, it then sends a current to the caravan’s brakes so both vehicles brake at the same time.
Do I Need Electric Brakes for Towing a Caravan in Australia?
For most caravans, you will need to use electric brakes or override brakes. Any caravan that has a Gross Trailer Mass (GTM) that exceeds 750kg is legally required to be fitted with brakes. For heavier caravans, we highly recommend the use of electric brakes, if possible, as they provide superior braking control over other options.
Are Electric Towing Brakes Legal Requirements for Trailers Over a Certain Weight?
Yes, they are. This is in-line with Australian Design Rules that set national safety standards for road vehicle safety. These rules note the following:
- 0 to 750kg GTM: No brakes are required for the caravan, but they are recommended if the weight is close to the upper limit.
- 751 to 2,000kg GTM: The caravan must have brakes (electric or override) on at least one axle.
- Over 2,000kg GTM: Electric brakes must be on all wheels, and there should also be a breakaway system (safety system that activates the brakes should the caravan become detached from the towing vehicle).
These legal requirements apply across all Australian states and territories.
How are Electric Brakes Different from Hydraulic Caravan Brakes?
The difference between electric brakes and hydraulic brakes is pretty straightforward. While electric brakes utilise electronic signals to trigger electromagnets in the caravan’s brake drum, system, hydraulic brakes use fluid pressure to push brake pads against the wheels of the caravan.
Electric brakes are more ideal for on-road and on-land caravanning, whereas hydraulic brakes are a more suitable option for things like boat trailers that will be submerged in water.
Can I Install Electronic Brakes on Any Type of Caravan or Trailer?
Electric brakes can be installed on most caravans as long as the axles and hubs are compatible. The key exception here applies to older or lighter trailers, which may not have the structural or electrical capacity to support electric brakes unless significantly modified. If you’re unsure, it’s best to speak with an expert, such as those at Autobox.
What Kind of Brake Controller is Needed for Electric Caravan Brakes?
When using electric caravan brakes, you’ll need to have a brake controller unit installed in your towing vehicle. You’ll typically come across two key types of brake controllers.
Time-delayed controllers work by applying a set braking force after a pre-set delay. The intensity of the braking force is adjusted manually by the driver, who can set it to specific strengths based on the current load and road conditions. They’re simpler to use and are usually more affordable than the other type of brake controller, which is proportional.
Proportional brake controllers automatically adjust braking force based on the towing vehicle’s deceleration. They’re more efficient than time-delayed options and provide smoother braking overall. However, they do require more complex circuitry and calibration when stacked against time-delayed options.
How Do I Maintain or Service Electric Brakes on a Caravan?
When it comes to maintaining your electric brakes, you should regularly check the following components (and we recommend doing so before and after every trip):
- Inspect the brake shoes and magnets for any visible wear.
- Clean the brake drums and ensure they’re free of dust, rust and grease.
- Check the wiring connections and plugs for any signs of damage or corrosion.
- Test the brake performance with the brake controller before every trip you take.
- Adjust the brake shoes on a regular basis to ensure even wear.
Along with the above, we highly recommend having your electric brakes serviced by a professional at least once a year. If you tow your caravan regularly or frequently traverse rugged terrain, you should have the brakes serviced more frequently (e.g. every six months).
