Parts Needed To Add 7-Way And Brake Controller To 2025 Subaru Outback XT

Updated 09/10/2024 | Published 09/03/2024

Products Featured in This Question

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

(2966)

$49.11

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

(3397)

$121.25

Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Universal Wiring Harness - Dash Knob - Proportional

(2504)

$217.00

Question:

7 pin round trailer plug to 4 pin flat tow vehicle adaptor? My new 2000 lb rv trailer has a 7 pin plug and my 2025 Subaru Outback XT hitch from Subaru has a 4 pin flat. What to do? Thanks

asked by: David R

Expert Reply:

Hello David, thanks for reaching out. Your best option here will be to equip your 2025 Subaru Outback XT with a 7-way and a brake controller. Since your vehicle already has a 4-flat, you can use the Universal Installation Kit # ETBC7. This kit contains everything you need to upgrade the 4-flat to a 7-way, including all of the necessary wires for a brake controller.

For the brake controller I recommend the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty # RED52VR. I prefer this controller because it will be completely hidden behind the dash, except for the small LED control knob. So, it will have a nice clean factory look in your new Subaru.

You will find a few install videos linked below. Feel free to reach out if you have any other questions.

expert reply by: Jesse M

Dave

9/10/2024

What’s your opinion of 51180 ECHO WIRELESS BRAKE CONTROL?

Jesse M.

9/10/2024

@Dave Hey Dave. The Curt Echo # C51180 is a very cool piece of technology. You won't find an easier installation for a brake controller, and the convenience of the app control is hard to beat. You will probably want to get a mount for your phone to go with it. The only complaints I have heard about the Echo are along the lines of reliability/longevity. I have heard a few people say their phones have a hard time locating or "discovering" the controller and they have a hard time actually getting it all to stay connected. I am sure part of this is the fault of the controller or the app, but another part may just be user error. Another complaint I have heard is the controller has a tendency to turn up missing. There is no way to lock it to the trailer or to the vehicle, so you have to keep a close eye on things when you make a pit stop. A few rare complaints aside, the Echo is a great option for occasional towing. If you are going to be towing more frequently and for long distances you may want to consider a permanently installed controller like the Redarc I mentioned. If you choose to go with the Echo, use the Installation Kit # ETBC7L instead of # ETBC7. The # ETBC7L is made specifically for use with wireless brake controllers.