Brake Controller For A 2018 Ford Explorer With After Factory 7 Way

Updated 03/14/2024 | Published 03/13/2024

Question:

I have a 2018 ford explorer xlt and have a hitch/wiring with a 7way plug installed after factory. Can you tell me what break controller I would need for this vehicle? They all say I need this extra kit that looks like it comes with a 7way, but I already have that.... just want to make sure I get everything I need. Thank you

asked by: Marcia K

Expert Reply:

Hello Marcia, I can definitely point you in the right direction. Did the after factory 7-way kit you installed include the necessary wires for a brake controller? I would like to know exactly what 7-way you had installed since it is not OEM.

The aftermarket 7-way kits we sell such at the # ETBC7 kit you mentioned, do include brake control wires. So, as long as this is what you had installed, you can use really any brake controller of your choice since the necessary wires will already be present under the dash. It will be a simple matter if mounting the controller and connecting the 4 wires. If you can tell me exactly what 7-way kit you had installed, I can give you a bit more specifics, but most 7-way kits should include the necessary wires.

As far as the brake controller, I recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 # 90195. I like this one because it is our most user friendly and dependable controller. It has an LCD display which gives you towing info and diagnostic in real time. It also has large, accessible buttons which make it easy to use while operating a vehicle. You can easily install it using the included 4-wire pigtail.

expert reply by: Jesse M

Marcia K.

3/13/2024

Thank you for responding! I am unsure of which 7way I have. I know I purchased it through etrailer last year, along with a hitch receiver. I can not find that order number as I unfortunately deleted the email, but it would have been whatever wiring harness was recommended to me at the time I purchased the receiver.

Jesse M.

3/14/2024

@MarciaK So I was able to find your order ad it looks like you got the Curt 7-way harness # C56306 from us. This is good because this means you should already have the brake control wires present under the dash. Your best bet will be to go look at the wires up under the dash and find the brake control connection. You will either be looking for a bundle of 4 loose wires, or an OEM brake control plug. It may be wrapped in foam or electric tape. Ford is notorious for making them hard to find but they should be there driver side near left knee/ above brake pedal somewhere. If you have the 4 loose wires you can just wire in the # 90195 controller with no additional parts needed. If you have the OEM plug, you can use the # 90195 controller along with the pigtail # 3035-P for a plug and play install.