4-Way Flat to 4-Way/7-Way Adapter Needed for a 2016 Toyota Highlander

Published 02/20/2019

Products Featured in This Question

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

(3397)

$121.25

No-Drill Mount Bracket, Long

(681)

$19.75

Tekonsha Voyager Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(755)

$77.29

Demco Solenoid Kit for Brake Actuators with Reverse Lockouts - Bypass

(20)

$56.13

Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Brake Controller - Dash Knob - Off-Road Mode - Up to 3 Axles - Proportional

(1676)

$290.00

Question:

I have a 2016 Toyota Highlander that has a factory towing system with a 4 pin adapter. I just bought a 2019 Nitro Z18 bass boat and trailer, total package weight 3200 lb. The trailer has a factory 7 pin with breaking system and reverse lockout. I need to know the best way/parts/ideas to convert my 4-pin on the Highlander to a 7-pin that will accommodate the new boat and trailer and allow me to back up on all occasions without getting out and moving the trailer tongue locking pin to lockout the breaking system. Also, do I need a brake controller installed under the dash of my Highlander? Lastly, the male ground pin on my 4-way has broken off over time. Will I need to replace that 4-pin to connect to the 7-pin conversion? Thanks.

asked by: Kenneth W

Expert Reply:

To convert the 4-Way Flat connector on your 2016 Toyota Highlander to a 7-Way that matches your boat trailer you will need the Universal Wiring Kit # ETBC7. This comes with the 4-Way to 4-Way/7-Way adapter as well as the wiring and other parts needed for a fully functioning 7-Way connector. I do recommend using the no-drill bracket # 18136 as well. Attached is an installation video of the ETBC7 and the Tekonsha Voyager # 39510 being installed on a 2014 Toyota Highlander that you can reference for the installation.

Since your 4-Way Flat is busted just cut the connector off of your OEM wiring harness as well as the adapter that comes with the ETBC7 and then splice the wires together color for color. You will also need to connect the large yellow wire (with the butt connector already on it) to the reverse light circuit on your Highlander.

The Voyager is a solid controller but it is a bit older. I recommend going with the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite # 331-EBRH-ACCV2 instead because it can be installed virtually anywhere and the control knob is small enough that it won't take up space like a bigger controller would down by your knee. I have attached an installation video of this on a 2012 Toyota 4Runner that you can check out as well.

Please note that if you only have a manual lockout on your boat trailer then you will have to get out of your Highlander every time you want to back the trailer up. If this is the case then you should be able to install the Demco Solenoid Kit # DM5404 and connect it to your reverse light circuit so that actuator activates when you put your vehicle in reverse.

In addition to the videos I have also linked some instructions for you to reference. Let me know if you have any additional questions and I will be happy to address them.