Trailer Brake Controller For 2018 Toyota Tacoma With Factory Tow Package

Published 02/11/2022

Question:

I have a 2018 Toyota Tacoma with 3.5L V6, came with towing receiver hitch, eng oil cooler, 4/7-pin connector and trailer sway cntrl. Do I need to add a transmission cooler and trailer brake controller? I plan on pulling a travel trailer.

asked by: Abel G

Expert Reply:

So what your 2018 Tacoma seems to have is the factory tow package (assuming you did not add the parts aftermarket), and while a transmission cooler is not needed, a trailer brake controller is required if your travel trailer has electric brakes. If so, the option I recommend is the following:

- Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller # 90195

- Plug-In Wiring Harness: Tekonsha Custom Wiring Adapter # 3031-P

The P3 offers more than other controllers for a couple of reasons, starting with its bright LCD screen that displays actual text compared to the shapes or codes most controllers use. Importantly, it also has continual diagnostic checks with safeguards to prevent battery drain or shorts, which is why it is the better option for frequent towing.

expert reply by: Kyle S