Recommended Trailer Wiring and Brake Controller for 2018 Subaru Outback Wagon

Updated 04/19/2018 | Published 04/18/2018

Products Featured in This Question

7- and 4-Pole Trailer Connector Socket w/ Mounting Bracket - Vehicle End

(2653)

$39.30

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

(3448)

$119.73

Question:

need technical/product compatability information 2018 subaru outback brake controller, wiring etc. 2018 Subaru Outback...want to install HM40975 and TK90160. Need compatible wiring. I want a 7 blade and 4 pin plug

asked by: Kingsley E

Expert Reply:

We have everything you need to install a 7-Way/4-Way connector and a trailer brake controller on your 2018 Subaru Outback Wagon as long as it is not the Sport model. The Hopkins Trailer Connector Socket # HM40975 that you referenced is designed to plug into an existing tow package port on certain Chevy, Ford, GMC, and Nissan trucks. This will not work on your Outback Wagon.

If you do not have any connector installed yet on the vehicle, you will need to start with a 4-Way harness. I recommend the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118467. This custom-fit harness will install by connecting directly to a built-in port located behind the driver side trim panel on the vehicle.

I have attached an installation video on the 2017 model Outback that you can use for reference.

Then from there, you will need to install the Univeral Wiring Kit # ETBC7. This kit includes everything needed to install a fully functional 7-Way from the above 4-Way, along with the necessary wiring and circuit breakers for installing a brake controller. The connector in this kit does have both a 7-Way and 4-Way. I have attached a great article that details the installation steps for this kit that you might find helpful.

For the brake controller itself, the Tekonsha Primus IQ # TK90160 that you referenced will work perfectly. This proportional controller will activate the trailer brakes at the same time and with the same intensity that you apply to them in your Outback Wagon.

This is everything you need to install a fully functional 7-Way connector and brake controller on your vehicle.