Installing a 7-way Trailer Connector on a 2018 Subaru Outback
Question:
Do you have a 7 blade tailor wiring kit for a 2018 Subaru Outback?
asked by: Russ R
Expert Reply:
We do have what you need to add a 7-way trailer connector to your 2018 Subaru Outback Wagon but there isn't a specific custom harness that fits.
If right now the Outback has no trailer wiring at all the easiest way to add a 7-way is to start with a plug and play 4-way and then convert it. I recommend using the Tekonsha, part # 118467, for the 4-way. It plugs in to a connector that's either behind a trim panel in the rear cargo area on the driver's side or in the spare tire compartment. I've linked a video of an install for you.
Once you have a 4-way connector, or if you already have a 4-way connector, use our # ETBC7 kit to convert it to a 7-way. The kit includes the 7-way connector and all the wiring you need to make it fully active. It plugs into the 4-way you have and then the 12 volt power wire is run to your Outback's battery, the reverse light wire splices into its reverse lights, and the brake circuit is ran in the cab of the vehicle to connect to an electric brake controller. Everything you need is included except for the brake controller itself. I've linked a video of this install as well. It's on a 2011 Outback but the kit is universal so the process is very similar.
The video of the # ETBC7 install also shows the Prodigy P3 brake controller, part # 90195. If your trailer has electric brakes and you need a controller this is definitely the one I recommend. It's easier to install and use than most because it can be mounted at any vertical angle and the LCD makes reading the screen a lot better.
Mike B.
8/4/2020
I am researching 7 pin harnesses to see if it will work for me. I saw this post about a 2018 Outback. We have this same vehicle with a 4 pin adapter already installed and also a 2010 Nissan Rogue with a 5 pin adapter installed. Would the process be similar with the Nissan Rogue? Thank you.
Mike
4/26/2025
Hi Charles, this thread is pushing 5 years old, and i see that @jonG posted the difficulty with the reverse light, and his solution. I'm wondering if in the interim anyone has made an adapter that goes direct from the rear connector to a 7 pin. Ideally it would solve the reverse light problem @jonG mentioned but also would utilize the 12V line (pin 1 i believe on the connector) that could be used to charge a house battery in an RV while towing. Do you know of anything like that? Is the 12V line at the connector suitable sized and protected to charge a battery AND prevent the subaru battery from discharging when the car is off but still plugged in? Your solution of the 2 step process (using 118467 followed by ETBC7) would still work just wondering if someone has combined that into one harness. thanks in advance.
Products Referenced in This Question
Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Up to 4 Axles
- LCD Display
- Up to 360 Degrees
- Tekonsha
more information >
Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Powered Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
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Tom S.
7/27/2020
I am putting a 7-wire connector on a 2018 outback with a factory flat 4 connector. It looks straightforward except I need to use that center wire to activate backup lights. Can you advise on where and how I tap into the right wire in the car and not cause any electrical damage by doing so.