Brake Controller Install on 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee with Factory Tow Package

Published 12/07/2011

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Question:

Several trailer dealers have refused to wire my 80550 to my 2008 Cherokee even though I have the factory tow package. They claim bad experiences in their past, mostly involving the Jeeps computer. What precautions should I take to wire it myself? It worked fine on my old RoadMaster.

asked by: Steve

Expert Reply:

I spoke with one of my contacts at Tekonsha, who tells me he is unaware of any vehicle-specific problems installing a controller on a 2008 Grand Cherokee.

The only connection to the vehicle that could possibly affect the vehicle computer would be connecting the red wire on the controller to the wrong wire at the brake stoplight switch.

The controller would be mounted under the dash to the right of the steering column, within easy reach of the driver. You can find the green wire that carries the brake controller output voltage to the trailer connector behind the fuse box under the dash. It will be a loose light green wire. Connect this wire to the blue wire on the controller. The white wire from the controller would need to be extended and ran through the firewall to the negative battery terminal. The red wire mentioned above connects to the brake stoplight switch located at the top of the brake pedal. The switch will have several different wires leading to it, you will need to use a circuit tester like part # PTW2993 to locate the wire that only shows voltage when the brake pedal is pressed. This is usually a white and tan striped wire but use the circuit tester to positively confirm it. Once you locate the correct circuit, use a wiretap like part # SWC502905-1 to tap the red wire into that circuit. The black wire would connect to the positive battery terminal, via a 20- or 30-amp inline circuit breaker (part # 9506P or 38630).

Following these steps should ensure a trouble-free installation.

expert reply by: Mike L