Is a brake controller necessary
 

I have a trailer with a 7 round plug and electric brakes.

I though the 7 round would control the brakes, but I think I read a brake controller is needed.

I have an 02 Ava.

Jay

Yes... You still need a brake controller to be installed in your truck.
and Yes to your other question. You do need a brake controller

It's not a good idea to pull that trailer without the BC especially when it's loaded.
You are going to be putting a large amount of added wear on your truck brakes and wearing them out prematurely.
The money spent replacing your truck brakes will easily pay for a Brake Controller.

Great! Thanks for the info, I could have really been surprised in a bad way.

Sorry about the typos.
Thank you,
Ja

Many states require electric brakes on a trailer over 2500 pounds IIRC. If you have the brakes already on the trailer, it wont matter much if they don't work - and they wont work unless you have the BC. as for premature wear on your truck breaks... that won't really matter much the first time you're in a panic stop situation and you can't stop since the weight of the trailer is pushing you- perhaps into the back of whomever just cut you out.

Just to add....many newer vehicles are wired for the brake controller, so its just a matter of plugging it in....not sure about yours