How to Install 7-Way Trailer Connector and Brake Controller on a 2011 Buick Enclave
Question:
I have 2011 buick enclave without manufacture tow package, and was thinking to buy a tow wiring harness item #118450. My question is my trailer had 7 pole trailer connector, what other item do I need to connect my SUV to the trailer. thank you
asked by: Chelsey
Expert Reply:
How you'll proceed will depend on if the trailer has brakes or not. Usually, the fact that a trailer uses a 7-way indicates that the trailer has brakes but that's not always the case.
If the trailer doesn't have brakes, you'll first install the # 118450. This provides easy access to the taillight circuits without needing to cut and splice into any wiring. You'll then install the # 37185 adapter that will convert the 4-pole to a 7-way connector. The adapter will plug directly into the 4-pole you just installed on your Enclave, with 4 remaining wires. You'll need to ground the white wire to the vehicle, and bundle the rest of the wires up out of the way for future use. At this point, you'll have lighting for the trailer.
If the trailer has brakes, you'll need to install a brake controller to actuate them. The Tekonsha Prodigy P2, part # 90885 is an excellent, safe and easy to use controller that's my go-to recommendation. You'll also need to install the # 118450 as mentioned above. At this point, you'd install the controller using our # ETBC7 brake controller install kit. The kit includes the 37185 adapter I mentioned above, plus all the wire, hardware and circuit breakers you'll need to complete the installation.
I've linked you to the install instructions for the ETBC7 kit, as well as to an install video showing the kit being installed on a 2011 Chevy Traverse, which is essentially the same vehicle. The video will walk you though the entire installation.
Products Referenced in This Question
Adapter 4-Pole to 7-Pole and 4-Pole
- Trailer Wiring
- Wiring Adapters
- Multi-Function Adapter
- 4 Flat
- Plug and Lead
- 4 Flat
- 7 Round - Blade
- Hopkins
more information >
Tekonsha Prodigy P2 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
- LED 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
- No Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Curt 4-Way Flat Magnetic Connector Adapter
- Search Results: etbc7
- Shop: Second Vehicle Breakaway Kit for Blue Ox Patriot Flat Tow Brake Systems
- Shop: Optronics Trailer License Plate Light - Incandescent - Gray Housing - Clear Lens
- Shop: RV Interior Lighting
- Shop: Optronics 12V LED RV Dome Light - Single - 6-3/8" Long x 4-3/16" Wide - White Housing
- Shop: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Shop: Curt Dual Length Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 1" Rise, 2-3/8" Drop - 7,500 lbs
- Shop: Pre-Drilled Round Rubber Trailer Bumper - 96" Long x 4" Wide
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Video: Finding the Right Trailer Wiring Harness
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Video: How to Choose a Trailer Brake Controller
- Search Results: trailer brake controller
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Video: In-Depth Review of the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller
- Shop: Gooseneck Hitch
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch
- Search Results: hitch
- Video: Feature Breakdown: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller
- Shop: Fifth Wheel Hitch
on Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
