Brake Controller Recommendation and Install for 2020 Subaru Ascent

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Question:

Hello. Looking at adding a brake controller to my 2020 Subaru Ascent tow hitch that I had installed at the dealership. I am new to the towing game. I have done some research and came across the Tekonsha P3 and also this Redarc. Would like to get something that is easy for a novice to use. I’m not sure if I would be able to do installation, may look to someone who knows more about these things than me. Any advice would be much appreciated. Thank you in advance for your assistance.

asked by: Vince

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

I'd give the Tekonsha item # 90195 the edge for ease of use. The full LCD display provides the status of your braking system at a glance, while the item # RED44FR Redarc Tow Pro Elite uses colored LED's to indicate problems. The display of the P3 is much more intuitive and user-friendly.

However, some folks absolutely hate the appearance of a typical brake controller and want it to be as hidden as possible. If you fall into that camp, the Redarc Tow Pro Elite might be a better choice.

Performance wise, both controllers will absolutely do the trick for you, but since you're wanting something easier for a novice to use, I'd go with the Tekonsha P3, without a doubt.

I'll link you to a video showing a brake controller being installed on a Subaru Outback. The procedure shown is pretty similar, and will give you a good idea of what the installation entails. I'll also list to a help article that explains how the install kit works.

The installation isn't too difficult, but if it's something you don't feel comfortable attempting any trusted mechanic should be able to handle it for you.

If your Ascent has the factory tow package with the 7-way trailer connector, you'll need the # 3062-P harness that will allow the P3 to plug into the factory connector located above the dead pedal on top of the kick panel as shown in the provided photo.

If you don't have the factory 7-way, you'll need to hardwire the controller using a item # 118790 trailer wiring harness and our # ETBC7 brake controller installation kit.

expert reply by: Mike L

1

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Answer 1

Yes, Tekonsha released the part #3062-P which is a brake controller install harness that fits your 2019 Subaru Ascent and would work well. I attached a picture that shows where you'll find it on your vehicle too. For a brake controller I would…

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Answer 2

Hey Ryan, so I looked up the Aliner LXE and it doesn't look like a trailer that would have brakes so most likely all you need is a 4-way confirmed as a fit for your 2024 Subaru Outback XT like the Tekonsha part #118467 which installs pretty…

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Answer 3

Hi Daryl! Getting the correct brake controller will depend on if your 2020 Subaru Ascent has the factory towing package or not. If you are unsure, you will want to contact a local Subaru dealer with your VIN and they can tell you. If you do have that…

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Answer 4

If you have a factory 4-flat connector or a factory 7-way connector on your 2011 Dodge Ram 1500, the brake controller port will be located underneath the dashboard and to the left of the steering column. It will be taped to another harness near the…

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Answer 5

There are absolutely plug-in wiring adapters for a brake controller for your 2020 Ram 1500, and what you can use is the Curt Custom Wiring Adapter for Trailer Brake Controllers - Dual Plug In #C51458 Then for a brake controller that doesn't take…

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Answer 6

There are two different 7-way trailer wiring harnesses for a 2019 Subaru Ascent dependent on whether or not you have the factory tow package. If you do have the factory tow package then you should be using the Tekonsha OEM Replacement Vehicle Wiring…

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Answer 7

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

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Answer 8

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

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Answer 9

In order to determine the torque rating for the lug nuts on your trailer you will need to know check out the chart I attached that shows all of the torque specs for all the trailer lugs available based on stud size, wheel material and wheel size.

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Answer 10

According to Blue Ox, it'll take an experienced installer about 4 to 5 hours to complete the installation of their #BX1128 Base Plate Kit on a 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The install isn't what I'd call super-difficult, but the installation…

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Answer 11

If you just need a 4-pin to 7-pin trailer wiring adapter, then you can use part #C57672. This will plug into the 4-pin trailer connector on your brother's vehicle and give him the 7-pin socket for the trailer. Keep in mind, this will only give…

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Answer 12

The OEM prep package consists of 4 "pucks" in the bed of the truck that will allow you to drop in puck style hitches for easy installation and removal, that gives you a completely clear bed when not in use. The B&W Companion OEM 5th…

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Brake Controller Recommendation and Install for 2020 Subaru Ascent

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