Recommended Trailer Hitch Receiver, Wiring, and Brake Controller for 2016 Subaru Outback

Updated 02/14/2022 | Published 02/12/2022

Products Featured in This Question

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(2967)

$41.67

Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(942)

$217.30

Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires

(3398)

$119.76

Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller - Dash Knob - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional

(2506)

$190.00

Universal Wiring Harness for Redarc Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controllers

(420)

$27.00

Question:

Hi, Im building a tear camper with brakes and I need you to point me to everything I need to pull it with my 2016 Subaru Outback. Im planning on getting the Draw-Tite Max-Frame trailer hitch receiver from you. Please recommend the products and installation instructions videos especially for a 7 way connector and brake controller. From searching your site it looks like I need to install a 4 way connector and then a conversion kit. Different price point options would be great. Anyway, as much detail as you can give me would be appreciated and then I can make a purchase soon. Thanks much.

asked by: John B

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you did your research here. The Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver # 76227 would be a great choice for your 2016 Subaru Outback. From there you are correct, you will need to install a 4-way wiring harness before you can add the 7-way.

For the 4-way I recommend the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # 118467. This will plug into the connection point in your rear cargo area for installation and provide you with a 4-way connection that can power a trailer's signal lights. I would choose this wiring harness over any other options since we have found Tekonsha to be the most reliable.

Next, you will want to install the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller # ETBC7. This kit comes with the adapter, wiring, and everything else you need to complete the installation of the 7-way. The included adapter has both a 7-way and 4-way connection so you have the option to use both.

Once you have your 7-way installed, you will be able to add your brake controller. I recommend the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller # RED24FR. The main unit of this proportional brake controller mounts out of sight, leaving only the control knob in the cab of your vehicle. The knob controls the braking power and acts as a manual override. It also uses colored LED lights for diagnostics. You will also need the # RED69FR to complete the installation.

I have attached the written instructions as well as installation videos for all of these products for your reference.