Recommended Wiring And Brake Controller For 2005 Subaru Impreza Sport Wagon

Published 09/04/2015

Products Featured in This Question

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

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$168.63

10 Gauge Wire - Blue Primary - Per Foot

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$1.65

Dielectric Grease for Electrical Connectors, 2 oz.

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$10.94

Battery Side Bolt Extender - Brass - Short

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$24.17

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

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$118.67

Circuit Breaker - 20 Amp - Perpendicular Mount Bracket - Cycling Auto Reset - Metal - Type I

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Question:

Hi, Im looking for help with my cars trailer wiring. I have a 2005 Subaru Impreza RS Sport Wagon and a simple, homemade utility trailer. Currently, I have a trailer light module that plugs directly into a wiring harness in the car. The trailer lights are dim and theres cross-light when signals are activated that is, when driver signal light is on, theres a faint flashing on passenger side. Trailer lights work perfectly on other vehicles. I tried splicing in and making different ground connections and no change. I suspect its either the wrong converter or the circuit doesnt have enough power. Do you have a suggestion of what trailer light module to use? Ideally Id like to plug-and-play, but Im wondering if I need to run power directly to the battery? Additionally, Im considering getting a trailer with electric brakes. What is a recommended setup for this car? Thanks!

asked by: Jeremiah G

Expert Reply:

I called my contact at Curt and they told me the symptoms your system has are the converter. Since it is not sold as a separate item, the harness will need to be replaced. The Curt trailer harness with a powered converter is part # C59496. We have had several customers send positive reviews with this harness.

Since you are planning on getting a trailer with brakes there are a couple of additional things you will need. First, you will need a brake controller. I recommend the Prodigy P2, part # 90885. This is a proportional brake controller that activates the trailer brakes in direct proportion to the vehicle braking action. This is our most popular controller because it is easy to install and operate.

Then, you will need a 7-way connector on the back of your Impreza. For that I recommend installing part # ETBC7. This plugs into the 4-way connector on your vehicle and after running the additional wiring will give you a 4-way and a 7-way at the back of your Subaru.

I have attached a link to a wiring diagram that shows you how everything is connected for both the brake controller and the ETBC7. When wiring the 12 volt power wire from the brake controller, you will need a circuit breaker like part # PK54220 inline. If additional brake wiring is needed you can use part # 10-1-1.

If you find you need a Battery Side Bolt Extender I recommend part # DW05416.

When working with electrical connectors I recommend using dielectric grease like part # 11755. This keeps dirt and moisture out of the electrical connections and helps prevent corrosion.