Installing a Brake Controller on a 2012 Cadillac SRX with Tow Package
Published 10/05/2017 >
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Question:
I have a 2012 cadillac srx with a 3.6 liter engine. I purchased this vehicle used and it has a factory installed tow package with the flat 5 pin connector. I realize that the bcm under the dash does have a place to connect the brake control wire. my question would be because my car came with factory installed package would there be an easier place to connect the brake control wire for the proportional brake controller ?
asked by: Tom
Expert Reply:
When installing a proportional brake controller, like the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 # 90195, the wiring (or connector) that you will need to connect to is typically under the driver side dash as you found. Because of this, brake controllers are usually installed either under the steering column or in the center control panel if there is a way to do so.
There is no specific place that a brake controller has to be installed, just as long as the wiring can reach where it needs to and that it is in an easy-to-access location for the driver.
I am curious as to what functions you have on your 5-Way. Normally on a 5-Way you see the left turn/brake, right turn/brake, tail, ground, and then the 5th is reverse. You will want to check that to make sure that your brake controller will actually be sending power back to the connector. You can do this by setting your brake controller to the highest setting and then using the manual override lever. If nothing happens then you will need a connector that will run a signal to your brake controller.
If you install the Universal Wiring Kit # ETBC7, you can cut off the included 4-Way and hardwire it to the functions on your 5-Way by cutting that connector off as well. This kit also comes with wire that can be run to the battery for 12V power for your trailer, and to the brake controller to activate the trailer brakes. Since your 2012 Cadillac SRX came with the tow package and there is wiring for the brake controller you may find some wiring already run from the cab to the rear of the vehicle that carries the 12V and brake controller signal.
Also, sometimes a few additional connections need to be made for the brake controller and 12V power to work properly. These will typically be ring terminals under the hood that need to be connected to the battery for power.
I have attached a few helpful articles that you can reference for the installation.
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