Brake Controller Recommendation and Install for 2020 Subaru Ascent

Updated 05/16/2020 | Published 05/14/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Universal Mounting Panel for Redarc Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controller Control Knob

(357)

$13.00

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(123)

$40.19

Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter for Electric Brake Controllers - Dual Plug In

(83)

$25.05

Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(6641)

$169.94

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

(3395)

$121.25

Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Brake Controller - Dash Knob - Off-Road Mode - Up to 3 Axles - Proportional

(1676)

$290.00

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

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.