Brake Buddy Classic 3 Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Preset
Our Price: $1,166.64
Confirmed to Fit
2003 Honda Element
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2003 Honda Element - Brake Buddy Classic 3 Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Preset
- Brake Systems
- Air Brakes
- Air Over Hydraulic Brakes
- Hydraulic Brakes
- Pre-Set System
- Brake Buddy
- Portable System
This portable unit gets you smooth braking without a complex installation. Senses the RV braking and applies the car's brakes at an intensity preset by you. Easy to swap between multiple cars; settings adjust for smooth braking for any size car.
Features:
- Applies towed vehicle's brakes with your chosen preset intensity
- Detects deceleration with internal inertia sensor and triggers braking system
- Prevents false braking with terrain-sensing technology
- Swaps easily between multiple towed vehicles
- Requires a second vehicle kit (BB59SR - sold separately) for each alternate car
- Adjusts to fit almost any car
- Sits level for optimal performance thanks to adjustable feet
- Clamps easily around almost any brake pedal
- Eliminates potential damage from over-braking
- Braking power settings ensure the brakes apply with appropriate force
- Monitors braking with wireless receiver for convenience and safety
- Mounts in cab of RV and plugs into 12V accessory outlet
- Lights up when system is activated
- Gives off loud alert in the event of a breakaway
- Gets ready to tow with 1-touch auto start
- Removes excess vacuum pressure from your car's brakes
- Checks braking system for errors
- Keeps car's battery fully charged with 15-amp battery charge line kit
Specs:
- Compatible with hybrids and other cars with electric power-assist brakes
- Dimensions: 19" long x 11-3/4" wide x 6-3/4" tall
- Power draw at 12V: 15 amps
- Range of adjustable feet: 1" - 4" tall
- Power harness length: 36"
- Weight: 9 lbs
- 5-Year limited warranty
Do I Need a Braking System for Flat Towing?
A braking system is a must when towing a vehicle behind your motorhome. Without it, the weight of the towed car can create a safety hazard, strain your RV's brakes, and affect the warranty of both your car and motorhome. Most states legally require a supplemental braking system, so if you don't use one and you end up in an accident (which is more likely since your RV takes longer to come to a full stop), your insurance and liability headache just doubled. You also won't have any breakaway system; if there's an accidental disconnect, there's nothing to bring your car to a stop.
Pros of a Portable System
First, this system is great for DIYers, since you can get the basic installation done yourself. There will be some minor wiring to do under the hood and in the cab, but that's as complicated as it gets.
Second, it offers you a lot of flexibility. It's easy to move from one toad (towed vehicle) to another - or, if you think you'll likely get a new car down the road, you can easily set the Classic 3 up in your new toad.
How Does the Brake Buddy Work?
The Brake Buddy Classic 3 uses a built-in inertia sensor to detect when your flat tow setup begins to slow down as you apply the brakes in your motorhome. The moment the system recognizes the change in momentum, the actuator will press down the brake pedal of your toad with an intensity pre-set by you. This method of braking is not as sophisticated as a proportional system (since it's less precise and less customizable), but it is still effective while being more budget-friendly. Meanwhile, the terrain-sensing technology keeps the unit from activating when you go over bumps in the road, so it doesn't brake when it doesn't need to.
Compatible with Hybrids and Continuous-Power-Assist Brakes
If you're towing a hybrid or any car with continuous-power-assist brakes, all you have to do to be able to use the Brake Buddy is change the Braking Mode to Hybrid.
Setting Up the Brake Buddy Classic 3
You'll be setting up this portable unit in your toad every time you flat tow, so it's designed to be easy to do. And because it's so adjustable, it fits in almost any vehicle on the market.
Step 1: Position the Brake Buddy
Shift the driver's seat back and set the Classic 3 on the floorboard. It's important that the unit sits as level as possible so the actuator has enough leverage to effectively push down the brake pedal, so adjust the feet of the unit to suit your floorboard if need be.
Each foot can be adjusted easily by hand or with the included wrench. Twist it counterclockwise, pull it down to the right length, and then twist clockwise to lock it in place.
Quick Tip: It's best to remove your vehicle's floor mat before installation to keep the Brake Buddy from shifting.
Step 2: Attach the brake pedal clamp
Next you need to get the clamp attached to the brake pedal with the Quick-Lock clevis. This adjustable clevis is designed to securely clamp onto the pedal regardless of its size or shape. Once you have the clevis fixed around the pedal, turn the lever to tighten it in place.
Step 3: Plug in and power up
Plug your Brake Buddy into the connector you'll have installed under the dashboard and then press the Auto Start button. The system will automatically boot up to your saved settings and then check your brakes, pushing and releasing the brake pedal several times to remove built-up vacuum pressure from the brakes and prevent over-braking. It will also check for any connection errors. Then you're ready to flat tow!
Braking Power Settings
The braking power settings control how intensely the Brake Buddy Classic 3 applies your toad's brakes. When you are first setting up the Brake Buddy, choose the setting that's recommended for a vehicle of your toad's size:
| Vehicle Type | Recommended Setting |
|---|---|
| Cars and Compact SUVs | Low |
| Mid-size Crossovers, Mid-size Pickups, and Small SUVs | Med |
| Full-size SUVs and Pickups | Hi |
The setting should be high enough that your toad gives a slight tug at your RV when you brake. On the right setting, you won't be at risk of damage from over-braking. Once you've set the braking power, it shouldn't need to be changed unless you tow a different vehicle.
Wireless Braking Monitor
It's important to monitor your toad's braking to make sure that everything's working the way it should. With the Classic 3, it's also easy!
The wireless receiver plugs right into the 12-volt outlet in your motorhome's cab so you can keep it directly in view. It monitors 3 key things: braking, breakaway, and battery level. The receiver will light up every time the Brake Buddy activates so you know it's working. In the event of a breakaway, it will immediately set off a loud audible alert. Finally, it monitors your toad's battery, and will flash if the charge drops below 10 volts. It's just a really convenient way to stay ahead of any problems.
The corresponding transmitter plugs right into the top of the Brake Buddy to wirelessly send signals to the receiver.
What You Need to Flat Tow
Flat towing can be a much more convenient way to take your car RVing with you than using a trailer or a tow dolly. It'll save you storage space both at home and at the campsite, and it takes less time and hassle to hook up.
To flat tow your vehicle, there are 5 basic components you're going to need: a tow bar, a base plate kit, a safety cable set, tow bar wiring, and a flat tow braking system.
| For the RV | Between the RV and Towed Car | For the Towed Car |
|---|---|---|
| Hitch | Tow bar | Base plate |
| Wiring plug | Safety cables | Braking system |
| Wiring adapter cord | Wiring kit/diodes |
The custom-fit base plate installs on the frame of your toad so you can connect the car to your RV with a tow bar. Hook up safety cables between the vehicles to ensure that the toad does not separate from the motorhome if the tow bar becomes detached. Tow bar wiring syncs your vehicle's signal lights with your motorhome's tail lights, as required by law in most states. Finally, the flat tow braking system - also required in most states - activates the brakes in the toad when you hit the brakes in the RV, making for smoother, safer braking, and preventing wear on your motorhome.
39499 BrakeBuddy Digital Classic Three Portable Supplemental Braking System by Hopkins
Item # HM39494
Installation Details
California residents: click here
Customer Satisfaction Score:
93% were satisfied with this product
7% of customers were not satisfied
- Wrong item was ordered
- Defective
- Product did not meet expectations
Customer Reviews
Brake Buddy Classic 3 Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Preset - HM39494
Average Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (203 Customer Reviews)
This portable unit gets you smooth braking without a complex installation. Senses the RV braking and applies the car's brakes at an intensity preset by you. Easy to swap between multiple cars; settings adjust for smooth braking for any size car.by: Jeff C05/15/2024
There is a design flaw with the connection cable. I pulled a tow car 10000 miles last year and had repeated disconnects from the brake buddy. I called for support and was told to use a small flat blade screw driver to spread the connection pins to keep the plugs in place. Im assuming this design flaw was known but put into production anyway by the answer given. This is my third break buddy and thy have made improvements but the old ones have worked flawless for me in the past.
by: Gary10/04/2021
2017 Jeep Wrangler
I purchased this BB Classic 3 in October 2020 after my old BB Classic that I purchased in 2008 failed to hold pressure for the piston. I bought this for my 2017 Jeep Wrangler but due to (1) the depth and unevenness of the driver's floor board, (2) the seat adjustment bar prevents BB Classic 3 from pushing against the seat and (3) the adjustable legs are not long enough to reach the seat and brake pedal properly, the BB Classic 3 fails the auto start test every time due to not being able to level. I talked to Hopkins MFG techs several times trying to resolve the issue (wiring checks, power cord checks, etc.) but to no avail. This situation makes the BB Classic 3 dangerous to have in service because not being level it will think something is wrong and keeps the brake applied (piston will not retract after applying the brake). So after talking to other Jeep Wrangler owners I determined that a platform was needed for the floor board on which the BB Classic 3 could rest. I constructed a platform that was approximately 3" off the floor board and rested on the floor board under the seat and on risers toward the brake pedal. This platform is level on the floor board both length-wise and width-wise. After placing the BB Classic 3 on the platform with clevis and power cord installed and legs in the lowest position, I tested the auto start and had 8 successful tests in a row!!! Also the brake away test was successful too. I still need to make a short drive test while in tow behind the motorhome. Hopkins really needs to advise customers that the Classic 3 will not work properly as is on a 2017 Jeep Wrangler due to the configuration of the driver's side floor board.
by: Danny04/06/2024
Ford Ranger
Works great! I use this BB Classic to tow a '22 ranger, easy to install. I'm glad I made the choice to use the Brake Buddy Classic 3 instead of the other options. By using this unit, I don't violate the integrity of the vehicle electronics and intricate wiring.
I highly recommend this product.
by: Steven10/13/2022
Just follow the instructions and it's an easy set-up. It does its job on the road. If there was anything negative, it would be where to store it when not in use. But, that has nothing to do with its performance. Thank you etrailer for making so many things available to us!
Steven
10/17/2023
One of the legs busted.
Mike L.
11/8/2023
The unit is protected by a 5-year warranty, call us for warranty information, please.
by: Larry01/05/2024
2001 Jeep TJ
I used this to connect my motorhome to my towed vehicle and it worked out great! Definatly liked that it was a heavy duty cord with strong connectors!
by: Calvin 12/27/2023
Nissan Versa
The system was fairly easy to install. The only fault was the part that clamps to the brake pedal was larger then my pedal. The car that I'm towing is a Nissan Versa. I ended up using a screwdriver under the pedal to give it something to clamp onto.
by: Juliearmstrong05/09/2024
Works great. etrailer support went far beyond the sale. I had an issue, but Lauren was fantastic and resolved my issue promptly. I would highly recommend etrailer for all your needs and the brake buddy as an affordable solution to your towing needs.
by: Quentin10/20/2023
2011 Honda CR-V
The system has great potential but I don't know if it is actually working. The transmitter in my Rv's 12 volt socket is suppose to turn red when I hit the breaks but it never turned red on a full 8 hour trip. It turns red when I hit the auto button or pull the pin from the breakaway box but never while actually driving. I have no idea if it works. That's why I give it two stars. I just bought this system this October 2023 from etrailer (Order # 120078365) and I'm disappointed. I may return this product soon because I hate when things advertised to work do not work.
by: Chris01/01/2024
Pretty involved to set up disconnect every time.Cost effective. Took a while to get it working properly
by: Roger 11/09/2023
Brake Buddy 3 is the best.
super easy to install and simple to set up. eTrailer was very helpful to get this ordered and also quick to respond to my questions.
by: Raul 04/29/2024
Works great with our RV. NO issues.
by: Jim04/29/2024
It is easy to work with and very sturdy
by: Wayne 04/05/2024
It works just like it is supposed to. Thanks for your help
by: Andy05/17/2023
Chevrolet Equinox
This kit worked out great for my 2022 Chevy Equinox. I like how it has separate side plates, which make it easier to attach the main bar. The points where it attaches to the frame seem plenty secure. It is important to watch the videos provided by etrailer as Ryan is very thorough and has good tips for installing. I would also recommend installing additional wiring while having the front end off. Overall, I was able to complete in my driveway. The hardest part was sorting out the wiring for whatever braking and tail lights you decide on. William S helped me pick all the necessary components needed for flat towing behind my Jayco RV. I am looking forward to a summer of camping and having more freedom to explore the area, now having a car.
by: Douglas02/23/2024
Everything is a perfect fit
by: Deck03/18/2022
The unit worked as it should. The original brake pedal clamp was an awful design and near impossible to clamp, after a complaint to the manufacturer they sent me the new design clamp and a new power cable. The unit seems big for what it does but funtions well.
Katrina B.
3/28/2022
With Braking systems, they are build to fit a variety of different types of brake pedals. Which means, they will fit most, but not all brake pedals.
Deck
3/20/2023
Been working fine, no issues and about 20,000 miles.
by: Douglas 10/12/2023
The instructions for wiring could be more clear and more wire should be included. Other than that it was great. Thank you
by: Christopher 05/28/2023
Jeep
Great products and fast delivery, that’s why I keep coming back to Etrailer. I’ll be using my Brake Buddy Classic 3 in my Jeep Gladiator that I plan on towing behind my class C motor home. Thanks again Etrailer for having what I needed at a great price.
by: John04/25/2023
I have used Brake Buddy before and would purchase it again. It’s easy to install and setup is a snap with the “auto” start button. The handle folds down and it stores nicely in our coach.
by: Robert10/27/2021
The connection from the brake buddy to the car connection at first was great. Then, after a few times, it just got very sensitive and in some cases would not make the connection. Even when it had a good connection at first, the sensitivity was just not there. You had to literally jerk down on the brakes of the RV to get it to engage. It just never worked properly.
Sierra K.
10/28/2021
The loose cable that runs from the brake buddy to the vehicle is a common issue and the manufacturer is aware of it. Thankfully, it is under warranty and the replacement tends to stay a bit better. I will send a note over to customer service to have them relay the warranty notice over for you.
by: Patrick 02/07/2024
2020 GMC Sierra 2500
Work as described
by: Dennis04/07/2022
The Brake Buddy works well
Dennis
4/8/2023
Very well
by: Jeff 02/03/2024
Great service.
by: Jeff 02/28/2023
Jeep Wrangler
We have been using this product for over a year now. Love how easy it is to set up. We have had zero issues with this breaking system. Towing a Jeep Wrangler 4dr behind a class c motorhome.
by: Rick07/30/2023
2001 Saturn S Series
Fairly straightforward wiring. The only thing is that the parts do not match the instructions.
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view full answer... - jFlat Towing 2016 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited behind 2020 Holiday Rambler MotorhomeIt sounds like you have your system spec'ed out about perfect. The Roadmaster # M-676 Nighthawk All-Terrain tow bar will connect your 2020 Holiday Rambler to your 2016 Wrangler Unlimited if it has a Roadmaster EZ5 Base plate Kit # RM-521448-5 installed. The Roadmaster # RM-4750 “Tow Defender” protective screening is compatible with your EZ5 base plate kit and will offer significant protection for the front of your towed vehicle. I have attached a link to a review video. For your...
view full answer... - Better Brake Buddy Controller to Use if you Travel Through Mountains or Hills FrequentlyIf you plan on travelling through mountains, hills, or especially rocky terrain, then there is a chance that the Brake Buddy Classic 3, part # HM39494, could shake loose and become ineffective. As for what we consider frequent, that's hard to say: often enough that there's more of a chance to shake the controller loose. It sounds like you are worried about that, so instead I recommend the Brake Buddy Stealth, part # HM39530. This installs permanently and out of the way and utilizes a brake...
view full answer... - Recommended Braking System For Flat Towing A 2018 Ford Focus Behind A Motorhome With Air BrakesFor air brakes the best option is going to be the Demco Air Force One Supplemental Braking System w/ Wireless Coachlink # DM26VR. This is a fixed system that won't require you to perform any setup after the initial installation. It's a proportional system that will apply the brakes in your Focus with the same exact intensity that you press on the motorhome brake pedal. The installation is quite a bit of work so if you aren't that handy you can also go with an easy option like the Brake...
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Jenny N.
10/21/2021
I appreciate the innovative solution to allow the Brake Buddy to work for your 2017 Jeep Wrangler. I spoke with Hopkins who did advise that it is ok for the Brake Buddy to rest against the base of the rails under the front seat.