ABS Error Warning Light on 2018 Toyota Highlander When Installing Trailer Brake Controller

Published 10/13/2022

Question:

Hi, I saw the article on installing a seven pin harness but it doesnt seem to address the problem Im having. I took my 2018 Highlander Hybrid to a pro trailer installation place and they attempted to install a device similar to your ETBC7. When they attached the Wiretapinch to the Stoplight Switchinch the safety systems in the CPU had a stroke, telling them that the ABS was out, the brakes had low powerinch and a few other brake related lights. They unhooked all of their work and gave me the vehicle back. I currently have it at the dealer to get the CPU reset and Im hoping thats all it will need to get me back to status quo. You seem to have a method that doesnt cause this to happen. Can you let me know what I need to do differently from what they do because it looks, to my untrained eyes, like you attach to the same spot. Did they do something wrong or is your solution different in some way? Any recommendations you have would be greatly appreciated as well. Thanks!

asked by: Tom B

Helpful Expert Reply:

In order to prevent the ABS error on a 2018 Toyota Highlander when hooking up a trailer brake controller to the stop light switch circuit you need the Pigtail Wiring Harness with Diode for Tekonsha and Draw-Tite Brake Controllers part # 7865 which has an in-line diode to prevent the error. This harness is designed for use with Reese, Tekonsha, and Draw-Tite trailer brake controller such as the Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller part # TK90160 which is what I recommend.

expert reply by: Conner L