VM1 Quickstart Guide
Now that you’ve purchased your VM1 Vehicle-Mounted Brake Controller, you’re ready to enjoy seamless control for your caravan, horse float, boat trailer, or trade trailer. Let’s get started with the setup process:
From here your steps are simple:
- Install the Elecbrakes VM1 Brake Controller.
- Pair the unit with the smartphone app.
- Adjust your settings.
- Test the brake response
Table Of Contents
(You can click the links below to jump further down this guide to the relevant section).
- How To Install the Brake Controller
- How To Connect The Brake Controller To Your Phone App
- How to Configure and Test Your Brake Controller
- How To Use The Elecbrakes Remote Control
- Full Elecbrakes VM1 User Manual
How To Install the VM1 Brake Controller
One of the reasons people love Elecbrakes is its easy installation process. Follow the simple steps below to get your brake controller up and running in no time.
To install the VM1 brake controller:
1) Mount the VM1 to the vehicle
Select a rigid body location on your vehicle (such as the luggage compartment, rear quarter panel, ute tray or vehicle underbody) and securely fasten the VM1 using the provided screws. Make sure one side of the unit is parallel to the ground for correct operation.
2) Wire the VM1 into the vehicle’s existing trailer socket
Hardwire the provided cable into the vehicle’s trailer socket. The other end simply plugs into the VM1. The VM1 is compatible with both 7-pin and 12-pin sockets, ensuring seamless integration with your trailer setup.
3) Confirm installation and power
Turn on the vehicle to ensure the VM1 is receiving power. Once installed, the app will guide you through the pairing process. When connected to your VM1, you will see a red circle appear in the app when you press the brake pedal, confirming the brake signal is detected and functioning correctly. For detailed steps on installation, pairing, and adjusting your settings, please refer to the VM1 User Manual.
How to connect the VM1 to the Elecbrakes App
Once the VM1 is mounted, connect it to your smartphone via the Elecbrakes app for seamless control and customisation:
- Download the Elecbrakes app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).
- Turn on your vehicle to activate the VM1. Ensure auxiliary power is available.
- Pair the VM1 with your phone by selecting your unit in the app’s device list.
- Follow the in-app prompts to configure and fine-tune your brake settings.
With the VM1 integrated into your vehicle, you can also access braking controls via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for in-dash control.
Why Do I Need Auxiliary Power?
The VM1 operates exclusively through the vehicle’s auxiliary power supply, requiring the brake light circuit as a trigger only. Ensure the auxiliary power is connected and active at all times as the VM1 will not function without auxiliary power.
If your vehicle doesn’t have auxiliary power, it can be installed by an auto electrician. To check whether your vehicle is equipped, connect the VM1 to the app and navigate to the data tab. If the auxiliary circuit is active, you will see an indicator light next to the word “auxiliary.”
For more details on wiring the auxiliary power or troubleshooting auxiliary connection issues, please refer to the VM1 User Manual.
How to Configure and Test Your VM1 Brake Controller
Once your VM1 is installed, it’s time to set up and fine-tune your brake responses to ensure a smooth and controlled towing experience. Follow these steps:
- Minimum Brake Response Setup – Start by setting the minimum brake response for your towing setup. Drive at a low speed (about 20km/h) and apply the brakes lightly. Adjust the minimum setting so that you feel the trailer brakes engaging gently. This ensures a smooth braking response under light loads.
- Forward Brake Response Setup – For the forward response, drive at a moderate speed (40-50km/h) and brake firmly. Adjust the forward brake response to ensure that both the tow vehicle and trailer brake smoothly and in unison. Fine-tune the setting until the braking feels balanced and consistent.
- Reverse Brake Response Setup – Reverse slowly and apply the brakes. The reverse response should be set so that the trailer and vehicle brake together smoothly. Start with a moderate setting and adjust as needed for optimal control while reversing.or forward braking, drive at a moderate speed (40-50km/h) and brake firmly. Adjust the forward response so that the tow vehicle and trailer brake as one, delivering a smooth stop. Continue fine-tuning until you’re satisfied with the feel.
- Using the Override – If you experience trailer instability, such as swaying, use the override feature to manually apply the trailer brakes. This can help stabilise the trailer by applying a steady braking force. You can adjust the override value to match your needs, using the app or remote.
Refer to the “Adjusting Your Settings” section of the VM1 manual for more detailed instructions, and be sure to fine-tune your brake profiles for optimal performance across different conditions.
Click on the ‘Data’ Tab. You should now see something like the image below.
The “Inputs” section in the Elecbrakes app shows how much voltage is being supplied to the VM1 brake controller. To ensure optimal functionality, confirm the following:
- Auxiliary Power Check:
Ensure that the auxiliary power circuit is active and supplying sufficient voltage. In the app, you should see a green light next to “Auxiliary”, which indicates the VM1 is receiving auxiliary power. The voltage should be at least 10V to guarantee proper operation. - Brake Light Circuit Check:
Press the brake pedal fully, and observe the app. A green light should appear next to “Brake Light”, indicating that the VM1 is receiving a signal from your vehicle’s brake light circuit. - System Warnings:
If voltage drops or there is an issue with the brake light or auxiliary power, the VM1 will notify you via the app with a warning. The system includes low voltage, short circuit, and excessive current detection for optimal safety.
If both the Auxiliary Power and Brake Light readings are 10 or above, your system is operating correctly!
If the readings are lower or not showing, check your connections or contact our support team at 1300 516 248 for troubleshooting assistance.
Refer to the “Adjusting Your Settings” section of the VM1 manual for more detailed instructions, and be sure to fine-tune your brake profiles for optimal performance across different conditions.
How to use The VM1 Brake Controller with the Remote
The VM1’s remote control gives you added flexibility and convenience, enabling you to manage your brake controller wirelessly while towing. Follow these steps to use the remote effectively:
- Enable Remote and Disconnect the App Before using the remote, navigate to the settings tab in the Elecbrakes app and activate the ‘Enable Remote’ toggle. This allows the VM1 to search for the remote. Once the change is confirmed, the VM1 will disconnect from your phone and be ready to connect to the remote.
- Power the Remote Plug the remote into your vehicle’s USB or cigarette lighter port to keep it powered during use. We recommend mounting the remote on your dashboard with a commercially available phone holder for easy access.
- Using the Override Function The remote’s override button allows you to manually engage the trailer brakes. To apply more force, press the button firmly. Release to stop at the desired braking level. Remember, the remote button is force-sensitive and does not latch, so you control the override force by the pressure applied.
- Pairing with the Remote If you need to switch back to the Elecbrakes app, simply disconnect the remote and reconnect your smartphone. The system will automatically detect which control is active. Always ensure that only one device (either the app or the remote) is connected at a time to avoid interference.
Important —
To activate the manual override brakes using the Elecbrakes app, tap the circle icon on the app’s home screen. This applies a preset braking force independent of your vehicle’s brakes, particularly useful in conditions like crosswinds or trailer sway. You can increase the override force by pressing and holding the button until the desired level is reached. Release to maintain the force, and tap again to deactivate the override. Be sure to deactivate the override after use to avoid unnecessary strain on the trailer brakes. If using the Elecbrakes remote, the override is triggered by pressing the force-sensitive button. The harder you press, the more braking force is applied. Release the button to stop increasing the force.
Proudly Designed and Made on the Central Coast
At Elecbrakes, being “Australian made” is more than just a label—it’s a commitment. Based on the Central Coast, we design and manufacture our brake controllers locally, ensuring each unit meets the highest standards of quality and durability. Built to withstand Australia’s toughest road conditions, both the EB2 and VM1 represent our dedication to innovative, reliable towing solutions you can trust.