It's an LF antenna, part of the system that detects your key fob and its location inside or just outside the truck.Sorry about the last pic.
What is that
I use the Echo with a Mercedes ML 350 and Honda Ridgeline. It is great for multiple tow vehicles so I also recommend it. I just installed a Curt Spectrum in the ‘41 Edition Willys we just got because I expect the Gladiator to be our primary tow vehicle. I have not yet towed a trailer with brakes since installing it.
In my opinion, the only drawbacks to the Echo are the need to keep the phone app running to be able to manually apply the trailer brakes and the weight of the unit hanging on the 7-pin connector for long-term use. The rubber strap broke on mine so I use a strip of velcro to support it
installation of the Spectrum is plug-and-play with the correct adapter cable (51526 or 51527) that plugs into the OEM connector located under the dash on the left side. I mounted the main module to the lower dash frame below the steering wheel and the control knob to the plastic panel (see photos attached).
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I considered the Jeep OEM controller, but the dealer told me it was backordered with no estimated delivery date and I did not want to remove the 12V outlet.