Adding a 7-Way Trailer Connector to a 212 Subaru Outback and How to Charge Trailer Battery

Updated 08/13/2018 | Published 08/12/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger - Dual Input - DC to DC - 12V/24V - 40 Amp

(88)

$620.00

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

(3480)

$118.67

Question:

How to Install a 7-Pin adapter to trickle charge trailer in Subaru Outback 2012 Hi, I am buying a tear camper to be towed by my 2012 Subaru Outback 2.5i. The camper will have electric brakes and an Autobrake Controller on the trailer. My car has a 4-pin connector, and the tear manufacturer Camp Inn told me that with the Autobrake brake controller, I will not need a brake controller in my Outback, but I will need a 7 pin electrical adapter, and to make all the connections except the blue wire for the brake controller. Do you have a video demonstrating installation of the 7-pin electrical adapter on an Outback? What other parts will I need? Is this something that can be done at home?

asked by: Sarah L

Expert Reply:

I do have a video that will be very helpful when installing a 7-Way connector on your 2012 Subaru Outback. I have linked that video for you. But not all parts of the video will apply to your situation simply because of the type of brake controller you are using. So you can just ignore those parts.

You will need # ETBC7 which comes with the 7-Way and the wiring and other accessories you will need. The installation is not difficult and if you have even a little experience with automotive projects you won't have a problem performing the install at home. It is mostly mounting things, running wires, and making a few connections.

I will tell you though that the 12 volt circuit on a 7-Way connector is able to maintain the charge level of a battery but it will not charge it up (unless it is a small 5 amp hour breakaway battery). To charge larger 12 volt batteries while you tow you will need a DC to DC charger such as # 331-BCDC1240D. There would be too much voltage and amperage drop off to effectively charge up a battery using just the 12 volt circuit directly without using the charger.

expert reply by: Michael H