How to Install 7-Way Trailer Connector and Brake Controller on a 2011 Buick Enclave

Updated 05/16/2015 | Published 05/15/2015

Products Featured in This Question

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(415)

$31.25

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

(3471)

$118.67

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.

expert reply by: Mike L