Recommended 7-Way Wiring For 2012 Toyota Highlander And Multiple Trailers

Updated 12/12/2016 | Published 12/11/2016

Products Featured in This Question

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

(3480)

$118.67

Wiring Kit for 2, 4, 6, and 8 Brake Electric Trailer Brake Controllers

(164)

$57.19

Wiring Kit for Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuators

(12)

$88.86

Question:

I am upgrading a 99 Burro 14 camper trailer. My 2012 HIGHLANDER AND IT BOTH CURRENTLY HAVE 4 PIN FLAT oops connectors. I want to convert to a round socket on a bracket, and still have a 4 pin socket for my utility trailer, etc. I may add electric brakes later, and battery charging wire. I dont mind if there are extra unused pins. Round pin vs flat blade? Which is better? Prices are similar.

asked by: Bill K

Expert Reply:

Since you already have a 4-way flat connector, I recommend using the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires, # ETBC7. This kit will simply plug into your current 4-way and give you a 4-way and 7-way connection option. The 3 remaining functions of 12V power, electric brakes, and reverse lights can be connected or saved for a later time. I recommend making the connections and being ready for the future towing of a trailer with brakes. This kit will give you the wires, connections, and circuit breakers you need to complete the 7-way vehicle side wiring. If you choose not to do that at this time, you can simply use the Hopkins Adapter 4-Pole to 7-Pole and 4-Pole, # 37185, and complete the rest at a later date using the Wiring Kit for 2, 4, 6, and 8 Brake Electric Trailer Brake Controllers, # 5506. The 7-way RV connector is the standard for vehicles with a tow package and trailers with brakes. It will give you a more universal application for towing than a flat connection.

If you decide to add a brake controller now, I recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional, # 90195. This controller will apply the same amount of braking force to your trailer as you apply to your brakes within your Highlander. It has an easy to read LCD display that will help you with diagnostics and troubleshooting without needing to decipher lights and codes. It has 3 levels of boost and is customizable to your desires.

For the trailer side wiring conversions, I recommend the 7-Way Molded Trailer Plug with Junction Box # HS381-9000. This will allow you to make clean connections now, and add connections with ease at a later date. I've attached an article on wiring for you.

expert reply by: Jason S