Parts Needed to Add Wiring to 2018 Dodge Durango Towing Horse Trailer
Published 08/02/2023 >
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I have a 2018 Dodge Durango and need to add the connections for a horse trailer. It already has a hitch but no light or brake controls. Can you help me get the right product?
asked by: Karla K
Helpful Expert Reply:
In order to power the lights and brakes on your horse trailer you will need to add a 7-way to your 2018 Dodge Durango. The first thing I would do is see if you have the factory tow package connector behind the rear bumper. I have attached an installation video below for the Hopkins 7- and 4-Pole Trailer Connector Socket # HM40975. If you start watching at the 2 minute mark you will see the connector I'm referring to. If you have this connector then you will be able to use the # HM40975 and that is all that will be required.
If you do not have the factory tow package connector you will have to start by adding a 4-way with the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118617. This plugs into the connection points behind your tail lights. Once that is complete, you need to install the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller # ETBC7. This kit comes with the adapter, breakers, wiring, and everything else needed to upgrade your 4-way to a 7-way.
For a brake controller I recommend the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty # RED24FR. The main unit of this brake controller mounts behind the dash with only the control knob visible in the cab. This keeps it out of the way and also gives it a nice clean OEM look in your vehicle. If you have the tow package there will be a connector under the dash which will allow you to use the custom fit wiring harness # RED77FR for installation. If you don't have the tow package and install the # ETBC7 for your 7-way then you will need the # RED69FR for installation.
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media




Continue Researching
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Q&A: My Vehicle has a 4-Pin Trailer Plug, but Trailer has 7-Pin Trailer Plug
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Q&A: 2025 Kia Sportage PHEV
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 4-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Q&A: Availability of Victron DC/DC Battery Charger With Lithium Compatibility and Engine On Detection
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 and the P3 Brake Controllers
- Q&A: Parts Needed to Add 7-Way and 4-Way to 2023 Ford F-150