Brake Controller Installation on 2006 Toyota Tacoma w/ 7-Way Trailer Connector

Products Featured in This Question

Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter for Electric Brake Controllers - Toyota and Lexus

(1387)

$19.32

Replacement Brake Control Plug-In Harness for Tekonsha and Draw-Tite Brake Controller 12" Long

(718)

$9.94

Wiring Kit for 2, 4, 6, and 8 Brake Electric Trailer Brake Controllers

(151)

$55.51

Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(2697)

$137.45

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

(55)

$11.88

Question:

I have a 2006 Tacoma. It already has a hitch and 7 pin connector. I want to add a brake controller but understand this yr model does not have a plug already pre-wired under the dash. I further understand that I need a plug w/ pigtail so that I can wire into. Can you indicated what part is needed and where these wires are located under the steering column? If they are already terminated into a plug will I need to cut them from the back of the existing plug to gain access for the pigtail to wire into?

asked by: G.leon H

Expert Reply:

Toyota didn't offer a factory 7-way option for the 2006 Tacoma, so your 7-way was either aftermarket or dealer-installed.

I'm assuming that your 7-way is already tapped into the lighting circuits. Look under the dash for a coiled up blue wire, if you find one, it's most likely the brake output circuit connected to the pin in the 5:00 position on your 7-way.

You'd need to hardwire the controller, using a kit like our # 5506. If you use a Tekonsha brake controller like the Prodigy P2, part # 90885, it includes a pigtail that plugs into the back of the controller. If you have a Tekonsha controller but need the pigtail, you'll need part # 20127.

You'd need to wire the controller as follows:

Black controller wire to battery positive
White controller wire to battery negative
Blue wire to brake controller output circuit, connects to the pin in 5:00 position in trailer connector
Red wire connects to cold side of stop lamp switch. Switch is located at top of brake pedal. Use a circuit tester like part # PTW2993 to find the wire exiting the switch that goes hot only when the brake pedal is pressed. Tap the red wire into that circuit. This wire is most likely blue, but I'd recommend using the circuit tester to confirm.

I've linked you to some FAQ articles and an install video that you might find helpful.