Install a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2011 Toyota Highlander Without Tow Package

Updated 08/14/2020 | Published 08/10/2020

Products Featured in This Question

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

(942)

$46.68

Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness for Factory Tow Package - 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(175)

$18.16

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

(1124)

$45.90

Question:

I have 2011 Toyota Highlander with the tow prep package. I purchased from etrailer the following items 56042,ETBC7,20127. After installing these items I now find out I also need to purchase and install a converter, part of item 118449. I still need to make the connection to the cold side of the stoplight switch and the brake controller pigtail, item 20127. I see in an etrailer video, etrailer I Trailer Brake Controller Installation - 2012 Toyota Highlanderinch Nov 8, 2014, that it is possible to make this connection to one of the wires on an aftermarket converter. My question, is there a wire on item 118449 that I could tap into to get the stoplight signal for my brake controller. Thanks

asked by: Charles O

Expert Reply:

The wiring harness # 56042 was designed for the tow package models which already have the converter integrated in the factory wiring. If you don't have that tow package then you do need the converter you find in the complete system # 118449 or # C56217. For your stop light signal you can tap into the stop light signal on the cold side of the switch, the CHSML, or the wiring harness you referenced prior to the converter or at your tail lights because you have a separate 3 wire system where the brake is separated from the turn signal.

If that is the case then return the # 56042 harness. You will still need the other components you referenced along with your brake controller for trailer brakes to function correctly with that vehicle.

expert reply by: Jason S