Update:

I found the procedure online for enabling the OEM controller in the Information cluster (IC), however I've also read where the OEM brake controller will work w/out a flash however the flash is required to enable the IC functionality.

I have an appt. for Friday to have this done however the dealer said they've never had to do one before. I provided them the directions (see below) and he quoted me $60 which I think is fair.

Of interest the procedure indicates an error may be displayed in the information center if the OEM controller is hooked up but truck does not have the required flash. I have the controller hooked up on my truck and it seems to work fine and no error is set in the IC. Out of curiosity what type of information is displayed in the IC for the tow controller? I'm going to have it done regardless but curious as to the information displayed regarding the tow controller.


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Procedure
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The message center will display TBC FAULT if it is receiving communications from the Trailer Brake Control (TBC) module, but has not been configured for a trailer brake system. If the message center displays TBC FAULT and there are no DTCs stored in the TBC module, follow these steps to verify and/or modify the TBC module programmable parameter in the Instrument Cluster (IC).

1. Identify the vehicle using the normal Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) process.
2. Select Programming and press the check box.
3. Select Module Programming and press the check box.
4. Select Programmable Parameters and press the check box.
5. Select Personality and press the check box.
6. Follow the on-screen directions.

NOTE: The scan tool will display either EQUIPPED or NOT EQUIPPED to the left of TBC-IC.
7. Highlight TBC-IC.

8. If the IC needs to be configured for a trailer brake system, choose EQUIPPED and press the check box.

9. Carry out a self-test of the TBC module. Refer to the Trailer Brake Control (TBC) Module DTC Chart for any DTCs retrieved

* Without a trailer connected to the vehicle and with the ignition key turned to the RUN position, the TBC module display lights up/proves out, but does not light up afterward (will not illuminate with input from the gain + button or slide lever)

 

Follow-up.

My truck did not need anything to enable the brake controller. It was plug-n-play. I found the trailer info area in the information center this morning (didn't look before) and everything is there ... hooked up to trailer and sure enough it sensed the trailer and all functions work. It is a 2012 with the max tow pkg but did not come with the controller itself.

So I guess the dealer visit is only needed on trucks that didn't come with max-tow?

 

That might be, my trailer info was on before i installed my TBC, but the tbc did not function before the flash.

I could fiddle with the gain and nothing would happen, now when i adjust it even with a trailer un hooked it changes.

Also could be a 2012 thing as i have a 2011.

 

I bought my truck I 2013 just recently got a camper. My truck cane with the towing package and TBC when I bought it, when I plug the camper up the trailer brakes do not work nor does it recognize the trailer. Any words of wisdom

 

wow... way to bring a thread back from the dead!

you have the integrated brake controller?
If so, check your fuses first (maybe one is blown)

next I would find a different trailer (or a different truck) to diagnose whether your trailer wiring is bad.