How to Wire a Trailer with Electric Brakes

Updated 02/07/2022 | Published 02/06/2022

Products Featured in This Question

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

(1885)

$289.95

Trailer Wiring Junction Box - 7 Color Coded Terminals - ABS

(576)

$16.56

Question:

I had a 7-pin plug installed on my Toyota Highlander. They didnt hookup the blue wire for the brakes being wireless. I installed a new 7pin plug from the trailer, which was not on there before. The wiring was a mess. A black and white wire came from the elect. brakes. The white was ground ? and the black I didnt label because I couldnt figure out what it was hooked to. Where do the brakes get their power from? The brakes work on my phone app. but not from the tow car.

asked by: David L

Expert Reply:

Those are the wires for the brake magnets. You will need to connect the black wire to the brake controller output wire on your trailer connector and you are correct the white wire will need to be grounded to a clean metal surface on the trailer. I have linked a diagram for you. The brakes get their power from the brake controller. It sends a signal to the magnet in the brakes to engage and that initiates the braking action. Since you already have a new 7-way connector for your trailer I recommend using a Trailer Wiring Junction Box - 7 Color Coded Terminals - ABS item # 3375601101. This will allow you to consolidate all of your trailer's wiring in one secure organized area.

expert reply by: Jerred H