Recommended Brake Controller and Install Location for a 2017 Toyota Tacoma

Updated 09/11/2017 | Published 09/08/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(2709)

$137.45

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

(383)

$21.55

Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(6440)

$179.89

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

(336)

$69.23

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

(3296)

$124.38

Question:

Between all the air bags and the compact interior, Im not sure where to mount the controller. The small pocket on the left side of the dash looks like it might be the only spot. Questions: - Do you know of a good spot where the controller will be out of the way? - Can you suggest a real small unit that will accommodate my situation? Thank you!

asked by: Mike L

Expert Reply:

The best place to locate a brake controller is, like you said, out of the way, but also in a spot that is easy for you to activate the manual override switch in case of an emergency situation. Most people mount the controller on the underside of the dash just to the left or right of the steering wheel on the driver side.

Since pretty much every brake controller is relatively the same size (about the size of your hand) I recommend going with the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 # 90885. This is a great brake controller that is compatible with trailers that have up to 4. It is a proportional controller which means it will activate them at the same time and with the same intensity as the brake pedal in your 2017 Toyota Tacoma.

If your Tacoma came with the factory tow package then you will simply need the Adapter # 3031-P to plug it into the connector under your driver side dash. I have attached a video of this setup being installed on a 2012 Tacoma for you to use as a reference.

If you do not have the factory tow package then you will need to install the Curt t-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness # C56349, along with the Universal Wiring Kit # ETBC7. You will need to splice the pigtail that is included with the P2 into the appropriate wiring instead of using the adapter for this setup. I have attached a video of the T-One being installed on a 2016 Tacoma as well as a video of the ETBC7 (and the Prodigy P3 # 90195) being installed on a 2009 Tacoma for you to use as a reference.