Adding a 7-Way Trailer Connector and Brake Controller to a 2015 Acura MDX

Updated 06/20/2020 | Published 04/03/2018

Products Featured in This Question

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

(236)

$46.15

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

(3437)

$126.29

Question:

i am looking for a harness for and RV 7 wire connector. what isnt that offered as a standard product? do i run a 4 wire + individual wires for charging, brake, etc?

asked by: Roy B

Expert Reply:

For many vehicles, including your 2015 Acura MDX, there isn't a plug and play type of 7-Way trailer connector so one has to be hardwired in. This is because on those vehicles the vehicle itself is not set up for a 7-Way trailer connector.

To add one you would first need to install a 4-Way which will provide the light functions for the trailer. For your MDX you can use # 118628 to add the 4-Way.

Then to add the 7-Way you will need # ETBC7. The 4-Way will plug into the ETBC7 leaving 4 wires that will need to be hardwired. The white wire will ground to the vehicle frame. The black wire and 40 amp circuit breaker will connect to the vehicle battery for 12 volt power to the trailer. The blue wire will go to the blue wire on a brake controller for output to electric brakes. And the purple wire is for either reverse lights (if the trailer has them), auxiliary 12 volt power, or if not needed it can just be taped up. I have included some links that show and explain the ETBC7 installation for you.

For a brake controller I recommend # 90885 because it is easy to set up and use and it is reliable.

expert reply by: Michael H

John H.

6/16/2020

Thanks for this post. Very helpful. Can you detail how you connected the black wire to the battery? I have a cigarette lighter right next to the trunk fuse access panel. Can I splice into that? Thanks

Chris R.

6/20/2020

For a reliable, consistent power source I have to recommend that you actually connect the black power wire to the battery's positive post. I linked an article below that you might find helpful as well.

Helpful Links

faq-installation-of-brake-controller-from-scratch.aspx