Recommended Brake Controller for 2021 Subaru Ascent Without Factory Hitch

Updated 03/19/2021 | Published 03/15/2021

Products Featured in This Question

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

(1769)

$279.95

Tekonsha OEM Replacement Vehicle Wiring Harness with 7-Way Trailer Connector

(34)

$129.04

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

(1183)

$5.44

Question:

Howdy Folks, What is the most economical brake controller and wiring adapter for my 2021 Subaru Ascent for towing a 2017 Airstream RV Sport 16? It looks like your Draw-Tite with the included ready to install wiring harness appears to work but Im hoping you could confirm or provide additional feedback. Not sure if it makes a difference but my Ascent did not come with the factory hitch, however we are having the dealer install an OEM version today. Thanks

asked by: Mike

Expert Reply:

The Brake Controller that I would recommend is the Curt Echo Wireless Trailer Brake Controller # C51180. This brake controller will plug directly in between the 7-Way on your 2021 Subaru Ascent and the 7-Way on your 2017 Airstream RV Sport 16. The great thing is there is nothing to mount in your Subaru so you can easily move this between vehicles as you need. And there is no additional wiring for this unit under your dash that you will need to have connected. This is also a proportional brake controller which means that it senses your braking force being applied and matches that to the Airstream unlike that of the cheaper timed brake controllers.

If your dealer didn't install the wiring for the 7-Way you will need Tekonsha OEM Replacement Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118290. This will give you the 7-Way connection you need and is specifically designed to plug into your Subaru. The Mounting Bracket and Installation Hardware # PK12711U will also be needed to mount the 7-Way near your receiver.

expert reply by: Bud M