Brake Controller Connector Location on 2012 Chevy Traverse

Updated 09/08/2015 | Published 09/06/2015

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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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Deka Jacketed 2 Wire, 10 Gauge, Brake Wire - per Foot

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

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40 Amp In-Line Circuit Breaker - Perpendicular Mount Bracket

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Question:

I have a 2012 Chevy Traverse LT awd w/o tow package. Im adding aftermarket and Gm parts to allow me to tow a travel trailer with brakes. I looked under my dash and around the steering column but do not see any brake control wires or connector. Am I missing the area where its located? I was under the impression there would be wires or a connector already to plug or connect to. The trailer I will be towing is a 2001 r-vision trail lite with dual axles. Any suggestions on which controller and how to connect it are most welcome. Thank you

asked by: Rich K

Expert Reply:

According to my Tekonsha representative, all models of the 2012 Traverse would have been equipped with the brake controller connector. The connector is located to the left of the steering column, as shown in the photo. You'd need the # 3026-P wiring adapter, and if you haven't chosen a brake controller, I'd recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P2, part # 90885. The 3026-P would plug into the connector, and the other end would plug into the rear of the controller. You'll need to sever the blue wire on the adapter, and run your own output circuit to the trailer connector.

Since the vehicle lacks the tow package, you'll also need to install a 7-way trailer connector at the rear bumper. First, you'll need a functional 4-pole connector, like part # 118450. Once the 4-pole is installed, you can use the # 37185 adapter to convert the 4-pole to a 7-way. The adapter plugs into the 4-pole, with 4 extra wires that need to be connected. The white wire grounds to the trailer frame, the black wire and the blue wire would be extended by a length of # 10-2-1 duplex cable ran under the vehicle to the engine compartment. The blue wire would pass through the firewall and would connect to the blue wire on the wiring adapter that was mentioned above, and the black wire would run to the positive battery terminal via a 40 amp breaker, part # 9510. The purple wire is usually used for reverse lamps, and would tap into the reverse lamp circuit, but you can bundle the wire up out of the way if it's not needed.

expert reply by: Mike L