Brake Controller Installation in 2011 Chevy Tahoe

Updated 03/18/2014 | Published 03/15/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter for Electric Brake Controllers - GM

(1197)

$21.73

7- and 4-Pole Trailer Connector Socket w/ Mounting Bracket - Vehicle End

(2653)

$41.31

Question:

Will this work on a 2011 Tahoe?

asked by: Alden B

Expert Reply:

Beginning with the introduction of the 2007 model year, GM stopped using the connector that was located in the convenience center under the dash for installing a brake controller. Instead, the tow package connection consists of 4 or 5 wires bundled up under the dash that end in bare wire ends that would be wired directly to the brake controller.

If you have not yet chosen a brake controller, you can't go wrong with the Tekonsha Prodigy P2, part # 90885. The P2 is extremely easy to use and set-up, which makes it one of our most popular controllers.

The tow package wiring can be found to the left of the brake pedal up under the dash. Look for a bundle of wires with a white tag hanging from them. The wires would connect to a brake controller as follows:

Red/Black tow package wire to Black brake controller wire
White tow package wire to White brake controller wire
Light Blue wire w/ white stripe tow package wire to Red brake controller wire
Dark Blue tow package wire to blue controller wire

There might be a fifth wire that is orange. This wire is not needed, tape off the end and bundle the wire up out of the way. If your Tahoe does not have the OEM 7-way at the rear bumper, you will need to install one using part # HM40975. There will be a harness either above the spare tire or along the drivers side frame rail that will plug into the rear of the HM40975.

If the controller does not power up immediately once the wiring is connected, there are two wiring connections under the hood that will need to be completed. The help article I have linked you to explains how to do this. I have also linked you to an installation video. The video shows a controller being installed in a 2011 Suburban, but the procedure would be identical with your Tahoe.