Why Did Toyota Dealer Tell Me My 2020 Toyota Highlander Cannot Have A 7-way Connector Installed?

Updated 06/10/2021 | Published 06/08/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Powered Tail Light Converter w/ 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector and Install Kit

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$164.98

Redarc Tow-Pro Wiring Adapter for Tekonsha Brake Controller Harness

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$27.00

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

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$156.06

Question:

I was told by my Toyota Dealer Service Dept that the 2020 Highlander does not support the 7 pin plug, only the 4 pin. They told me the 7 pin conversion creates some electrical feed back that can severely damage the cars electrical system. I was told to disconnect my 7 pin conversion, installed professionally, by an after market tow hitch shop. Is this true?

asked by: Caleb

Expert Reply:

The dealer tech you talked to is somewhat correct.

The issue is that the red brake output wire can back feed into the wiring of your 2020 Toyota Highlander, but there is a fix that will fix this.

Your Highlander will need to have a Tekonsha, Draw-Tite, or Redarc trailer brake controller installed, and then you can use the Pigtail Wiring Harness with Diode for Tekonsha and Draw-Tite Brake Controllers # 7865. If you have a Redarc controller you will also need the Redarc Tow-Pro Wiring Adapter for Tekonsha Brake Controller Harness # 331-TPH-017.

This harness has built in diodes that prevent back feeding into the electrical system, and was designed specifically for the Toyota Highlanders.

If you do not currently have a Tekonsha, Draw-Tite, or Redarc trailer brake controller I recommend replacing your current controller with the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 # 90195 as it is an extremely reliable controller with great features like an easy to read LCD screen, and built in diagnostics that are easy to read and understand.

I included videos of the products mentioned for you to take a look at.