Where to Connect a Brake Controller in 2012 Cadillac Escalade

Updated 10/14/2019 | Published 10/13/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller - Up to 3 Axles - Proportional

(2137)

$104.93

Twist-in, 7-Pole, RV-Style Trailer Connector for Chevy and GMC Vehicles - Vehicle End

(612)

$17.43

Question:

Does my 2012 Escalade Luxury model have a plug in for a brake controller? I have looked under the dash for wiring and cannot find any so designated. I have found the two wires under the hood that connect to the fuse box there. Under the dash I did find a box box to the left of the brake pedal with an empty socket which might be for a brake controller, I need help in finding where to hook up a brake controller in this car. THANKS!

asked by: Keith K

Expert Reply:

Good question, and a 2012 Cadillac Escalade does not have a harness that will allow you to plug in a brake controller, but it does have the wires already run under the dash, regardless of if you have the factory 7-way or not. If you take a look at the accompanying photo you can see where the wires will be; this is a cut out from the linked installation video of the Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller # TK90160. This is from a 2009 Cadillac Escalade which is the same generation as yours so the wiring will be the same. If you take a look at the video, at about the 1:30 mark the install starts so you can see exactly where to check.

The Primus IQ is a great option because of its easy to read display, it is easy to use, and it even protects your trailer brake wiring from potentially shorting out because the IQ reduces the power to the brakes when you are stopped so they don't overheat. If your '12 Escalade has the factory 7-way you will not need anything but the brake controller; if it does not have the factory 7-way you will need to add the Twist-in, 7-Pole, RV-Style Trailer Connector # PK11916.

Along with the video install, I've also added a link to a short video review of the Primus IQ Brake Controller # TK90160 and a help article on brake controllers I recommend checking out.

expert reply by: Kyle S