Trailer Brake Controller Installation on a 2015 GMC Acadia

Published 12/28/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Pollak Metal 7-Pole, RV-Style Trailer Socket - Vehicle End

(111)

$11.69

Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller - 7-Way Plug-in w/ Bluetooth App - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional

(1803)

$289.95

Curt No-Drill Bracket for 6-Way or 7-Way Round Trailer Connector Mounting Bracket - Long

(308)

$36.31

Mounting Bracket and Installation Hardware - Pollak 7-Pole, RV-Style Trailer Connector - Vehicle End

(1202)

$3.72

Question:

I have a 2015 GMC Acadia without the tow package. From what I understand the vehicle is pre-wired with a connection at the rear and under the dash. My question is, does this wiring include the power wire for the trailer brakes or will I need to run that separate as the videos show for the older models?

asked by: Eric S

Expert Reply:

The vehicle is indeed pre-wired, as you suspected. To get completely set up, you'll need a brake controller, the appropriate wiring harness to connect the controller to the vehicle and a trailer connector for the rear of the vehicle. All the rest of the wiring is ran, but you'll need some fuses and relays to activate the tow package wiring.

For a brake controller, you can't go wrong with the Tekonsha P3, part # 90195. The P3 is one of the most user-friendly brake controllers available. You'd also need the # 3026-P wiring harness that plugs in under the dash, to the right of the steering column as shown at the 3:45 mark in the install video I've linked for you.

Or, if the idea of drilling holes in the underside of your dash and hunting around for the connector under the dash doesn't thrill you, Curt offers the Echo wireless brake controller, part # 51180. The unit plugs into the trailer connector at the rear of he vehicle and wirelessly communicates with your iOS or Android based smart phone, allowing you to use your phone to adjust settings on the controller. It's super easy to install and works extremely well. I've linked you to an product video showing how the Echo works.

At the rear of the vehicle, use the # 118271 7-way connector/wiring harness. This includes the relays and fuses mentioned above. I've also linked an install video for that. You'll also need a mounting bracket, which consists of parts # PK12711U and # C57202.

expert reply by: Mike L