Can Redarc Tow-Pro Elite # RED44FR Be Installed In a 2020 Ford Ranger W/ Factory 7-way Connector?

Updated 04/02/2021 | Published 04/01/2021

Products Featured in This Question

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

(1743)

$290.00

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

(214)

$13.00

Question:

I have a 2020 Ford Lariat Ranger that has the factory trailer tow package, but no brake controller. Ive asked half a dozen different dealerships about installing one, but none have any experience with this vehicle. There is also differing opinions about which Ford part I need costing from $140- $336. An installation quote of over $700 seemed ridiculous. Several have expressed that using anything other than the Ford certified part will void my warranty. The Redarc Trailer Brake Controller - RED44FR appears to be what I need and is something I could install myself. Your installation video on a 2019 Ranger was very clear if the 2020 is the same. Will I run into any conflicts with my vehicle over warranty or brake features like front end collision avoidance with this device?

asked by: Gary B

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Trailer Brake Controller # RED44FR you were looking at is a great choice for your 2020 Ford Ranger Lariat.

Since your Ranger has the factory 7-way connector the wires needed to install the trailer brake controller is located underneath the dash just below the main wiring grommet, and will install the same way as the video of the 2019 Ranger you mentioned.

When we did this install on the 2019 Ranger we used the Mounting Panel for Redarc Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controller Control Knob # 331-TPSI-003 to mount the # RED44FR which replaced one of the factory 12v outlets, but you can mount the knob in another location if desired.

Installing a trailer brake controller like the # RED44FR will not void your warranty due to you being protected by the Federal Magnusson-Moss Warranty Act. The Act states that if something breaks on your vehicle and you take it in for warranty repair, the dealer must honor your warranty unless whatever modifications you have added to your vehicle actually caused the problem in question.

A trailer brake controller only connects to the stop light switch, and the battery of your vehicle, and since your vehicle has the factory prewiring for the controller you will be using there wiring and will not have any issues and it will also not interfere with any systems in your Ranger like the front end collision avoidance.

I included a video of the # RED44FR being installed in a 2019 Ford Ranger for you to take a look at.