What Is Needed To Install a Brake Controller On a 2019 Subaru Crosstrek

Question:

I have a 2019 subaru crosstrek, I recently purchased a curt hitch and 4 pin harness from yall. Im looking at a tear camper now it requires a 7 pin rv connection and trailer brakes. What components do I need to make this work? And will this brake controller work with my vehicle. .

asked by: Jerry W

Helpful Expert Reply:

Yes, the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Trailer Brake Controller part # RED44FR will work on your 2019 Subaru Crosstrek. The only thing you will need to install this is the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controllers part # ETBC7. That said, this option requires you to run some wires inside and out the vehicle as well as splice into the stop light switch circuit behind the brake pedal.

If you are experienced with wiring then the above task will be pretty easy for you but if not I would advise on using the Curt Echo Mobile Trailer Brake Controller part # C51180 with the 7-Way RV Upgrade Kit for Trailer Brake Controller Installation part # ETBC7L instead because this option only requires you to run one wire from the rear to the battery but nothing in the vehicle nor do you need to do any splicing. There also won't be any drilling into the dash to mount the controller either as the Curt Echo uses your phone. The Curt Echo is probably the most popular brake controller for a Subaru Crosstrek.

expert reply by: Conner L

Eric S.

8/10/2020

I also have a 2019 CrossTrek but with a 4-way connector run through the inside in the spare well from eTrailer (T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector Item # 118467) So, nothing on the outside. When I hook up a trailer, I just string the wire out the rear hatch. I'd like to install the Echo and am wondering which adapter kit to use and if I can persist in running the wiring out the hatch of if I need to find an external mount. My hitch is an EcoHitch Stealth from Torklift.

Jon G.

8/24/2020

Thanks for all the info! Since you need to install a 7-Way I definitely recommend locating this connector on your 2019 Crosstrek near the hitch instead of inside your vehicle. You will need the Upgrade Kit # ETBC7L for the Curt Echo # C51180. To hold the 7-Way at the rear of your vehicle you can either drill into the hitch using part # PK12711U or you can use the magnetic mount # 306-X6020.

Eric S.

12/29/2020

I went with your recommendations above and installed the 7-way through the bumper. All of the non-black wiring was straightforward. But, I'm having a hard time figuring out how to run the black 12V under the car up to the battery compartment. There are plastic covers under the frame between the axles. Do I need to remove those and run the wire above them?

Jon G.

12/30/2020

@EricS If those plastic covers are keeping you from being able to route your wiring properly then yes, you'll need to remove them. Try to run the wire along the frame, being sure to avoid any hot or moving parts of your vehicle.