Complete Towing Setup With Brake Controller for 2025 Honda Odyssey

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Question:

Hi-just bought a 2025 honda odyssey. Want a hitch and brake controller setup to tow 2800 lb popup camper. I want the hidden hitch. Appreciate recommendations for a package. Thanks

asked by: Mike P

Expert Reply:

Hi Mike! Do you want a completely hidden hitch or one where only the receiver is visible? The Curt # C64NR you looked at has a concealed cross tube so you will only see the receiver hanging down at the rear. The Hidden Hitch by Draw-Tite # DT76GR will also work and has a completely removable receiver when you aren't towing. If you decide to get the Hidden Hitch you will also need the Quick Links for Safety Cables # RM-910022.

The next thing you need is wiring. Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness # C56382 will provide you with a 4-way to power the trailer's lights. Then you will need the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller # ETBC7. This comes with the adapter, wiring, breakers, and everything else required to upgrade a 4-way to a 7-way.

For a brake controller I recommend the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty # RED52VR. This brake controller is easy to use and incredibly reliable. The main unit installs out of sight so only the control knob is visible. This keeps it out of the way and gives it a nice OEM look. The knob controls the braking power and also acts as the manual override.

If you need a ball mount, check out the etrailer Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches # 989900. This comes with two different ball mounts along with a 1-7/8" and 2" ball and hitch pins. It also includes a ball mount bag for storage.

Any big plans with your camper this summer?

expert reply by: Robin H

Curt Hitch on 2024 Odyssey
(click to enlarge)

Mike P.

4/5/2025

Thanks for the info. Very helpful. Do you have videos the show recommended wire routing of the hitch and controller wiring? Does c58003 work with hitch ant ratlle brackets? Planning to start local to norteast ohio and branch out to upper michigan. We’ve never been uo that way.but heard it’s beautiful. Pulling a coachmen clioper 1284sst.

Robin H.

4/5/2025

@MikeP I just answered your question on the mounting bracket in a separate page so you should have just gotten that email. I attached installation videos for everything above it but it's hidden further down on the page. I'll go ahead and add the wiring video and brake controller video here. We don't have one specifically for the Odyssey for the brake controller so I used another vehicle to help give you a visual. You will also get written instructions with all of these products. I've never been to Michigan (aside from the airports) but I bet there are a lot of great places to visit around the Great Lakes. Looks like they have a lot of nice parks and lighthouses. The north shore of Lake Superior is one of my favorite places to go, I imagine it is fairly similar.

Helpful Links

tv-install-brake-controller-2014-honda-odyssey-etbc7.aspx

tv-install-curt-trailer-wiring-2024-honda-odyssey-c56382.aspx

tv-install-redarc-tow-pro-liberty-brake-controller-2019-nissan-armada-red52vr.aspx

Mike P.

4/6/2025

@RobinH The Redarc brake controller looks slick. I was reading where some people had issues with it working with adaptive cruise and then needing to tap into the third brake light. Is that fact or fiction do you know? I’d hate to get it torn apart and run into issues. Thanks.

Robin H.

4/8/2025

@MikeP that is correct. Basically any brake controller that is installed in the traditional manner only gets the signal when the brake pedal is pressed. To get the trailer brakes to engage with adaptive cruise control you will have to use the third brake light. I would check your owner's manual for towing guidelines, many state that you should not use adaptive cruise control while towing.