How to Access Vehicle Brake Light Signal for Trailer Brake Controller Installation

Updated 07/05/2017 | Published 07/02/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Discovery NEXT Trailer Brake Controller - Up to 4 Axles - Time Delayed

(60)

$113.95

Curt Custom Wiring Adapter for Trailer Brake Controllers - Dual Plug In

(238)

$13.44

Firestone Fuse Circuit Tap Kit

(40)

$22.03

Question:

Hi, Having a problems connecting C84VV Curt Discovery Trailer Brake Controller. Specifically finding a cold side of stoplight switch. My 2005 Toyota Sequoia switch has 4 wires and one comes on when pedal is pressed, but instruction says also test if the wire is not grounded when the pedal is in the up position not pressed I assume. And unfortunately it is grounded. Installation guide says nothing what to do in this case. Shall I tap that break controller wire to the break lights car has separate lights from turning signals ? Any help appreciated, Thanks

asked by: Vlad

Expert Reply:

If your 2005 Toyota Sequoia has a factory-installed 7-way trailer connector you can install the Curt Discovery trailer brake controller # C84VV using only the mating wiring adapter part # C51362.

If it does not then the installation will be hardwired. You can gain access to the vehicle brake light signal, which is what triggers the Discovery controller to generate output voltage for the trailer brakes, either by tapping into brake light wiring or by installing a fuse tap in the brake light circuit's fuse location.

Firestone part # F2526 can give you access to that signal, or you can find and tap into the wire for the vehicle's 3rd brake light (its CHMSL, or center high-mount stop light). That will provide the same triggering signal for the controller.

expert reply by: Adam R