Installing Brake Controller On Kia Sorento For Towing Enclosed Trailer

Updated 03/31/2015 | Published 03/29/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuator Adapter Module for Ford and Chevy Brake Controllers

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Trailer Wiring Junction Box

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Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness for Factory Tow Package - 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

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Curt Powered Tail Light Converter w/ 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector and Install Kit

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Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires

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Question:

Re: Trailer Brakes...I have a light fiberglass dual-axle enclosed trailer, weight per manual is 1050lbs. I haul up to 3 dirtbikes and gear at around 1200lbs max. The trailer is equipped with electric trailer brakes on each of the 2 front wheels, wired to the tongue, never installed. My primary tow vehicle is a V-6 Kia Sorrento rated for 3500 tow lbs but w/o harness or electrical connections for a brake controller...would rather not go that route if an easy and economical alternate can be found. Is there an electric surge brake activator of sorts that installs to the tongue/coupler to operate the brakes in a quick or emergency stop situation?

asked by: Jon

Expert Reply:

In order to use a surge coupler, you'd need to replace the coupler on your trailer, as well as the brake assemblies and possibly the brake drums. You'd also need to run brake lines. Honestly, your most economical and safe way to proceed here would be to complete the wiring on your trailer, and install a 7-way and a brake controller.

Installing the brake controller would be a pretty simple process. I'd recommend you go with a proportional brake controller, like the Tekonsha Primus, part # TK90160. A proportional controller can sense how quickly the tow vehicle is stopping, and send the right amount of voltage to the trailer brakes so the tow vehicle and the trailer stop at the same rate. This provides safer and more predictable braking performance. To install the controller, you'll need our Brake Controller Install Kit, part # ETBC7. The kit contains everything needed to install a controller, but if your Sorento doesn't have a functioning 4-pole trailer connector, you'll need to install one. If your Sorento is a 2007-2015 with the factory tow wiring prep package, use part # C56332. If it's a 2007-2015 without the wiring package, or a 2003-2006 use part # C59496.

I've linked you to numerous FAQ articles and install videos as well as the installation instructions for the brake controller install kit. These resources will help you determine if this install is something you'd feel comfortable attempting yourself. If not, a competent mechanic should be able to complete the install without too much difficulty.

I've also linked you to our Trailer Wiring FAQ, which will explain how to complete the wiring on your trailer. If you don't already have a 7-way trailer connector installed on the trailer, you can install one using part # H20046, which would wire up according to the wiring color code chart I've provided. A junction box like part # 38656 would make for a neat and easy installation that would keep your wiring connections protected from the weather. I've linked you to an install video showing how the junction box is installed.