Converting 4-Way Trailer Connector to 7-Way on 2018 Toyota Highlander

Updated 06/29/2019 | Published 06/28/2019

Products Featured in This Question

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

(3559)

$118.68

7-Way RV Upgrade Kit for Trailer Brake Controller Installation - 12 Gauge Wires

(400)

$81.61

Question:

My 18 Highlander tow package has a 4 pin connector. My trailer has an on-board 12V battery that recharges from the trailers 7 pin connector. How do I convert 4 pin withOUT power other than for lights to a 7 pin WITH power to recharge the trailers on-board 12V battery?

asked by: Chip W

Expert Reply:

Since you already have a 4-way connector on your 2018 Toyota Highlander you need to use one of our adapter kits to convert it to a 7-way.

If the trailer doesn't have brakes you only need to power its lights and the battery so you can use part # ETBC7L which includes the adapter and the wiring and circuit breaker to make the 12 volt pin active. This way you'll be able to provide a maintenance charge to your battery as well as power the trailer's lights.

On the other hand if the trailer does have brakes you need to power its lights, the battery, and the electric brakes through the 7-way so you need part # ETBC7 instead. It includes the same adapter and all the wiring for the 12 volt power pin with the circuit breakers, plus the extra wire necessary for electric trailer brakes.

I've linked an article and a video about installing the kits. They're both technically on the full # ETBC7 kit but the two install the same minus a wire you won't use if you install # ETBC7L. The video is specifically from when we installed the kit on a 2014 Highlander so it should be very much like your install.