Is there a Plug In Adapter for a Brake Controller on a 2021 Ford Escape?
Updated 01/12/2026 | Published 09/07/2024
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Question:
I have a 2021 Ford Escape with factory installed Class II hitch and wiring already installed for 4 pin. Ive confirmed there is a wiring harness connection under the dashboard for connecting a brake controller. I think I need a t-connector to tap into this harness, but I cant find one for this car. Is there a t-connector available for the under dash wiring harness? Thank you. Greg Altonji
asked by: Greg A
Expert Reply:
Hey Greg! I am not sure what connector you found but there are no plug in brake controller adapters available for your 2021 Ford Escape, I verified this with our vendors. When you say t-connector that refers to a 4-way wiring harness like item # C75CR, which you already have.
To add a brake controller to your Escape you'll have to hardwire it in. The Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Universal Wiring Harness item # RED52VR you were looking it is the best option and what I highly recommend.
The Tow-Pro Liberty item # RED52VR is a proportional brake controller that activates your trailer's brakes when your Escape decelerates. This the safest and most reliable way to slow your trailer without adding additional stress to your vehicle and trailer.
The included wiring harness is what you'll need to complete the installation.
Since you only have a 4-way connector you will also need a 7-way connector to tow a trailer with brakes. A 4-way only controls the lighting functions. I recommend the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller item # ETBC7. The kit includes a pre-wired 7- and 4-way trailer connector that mounts easily at the rear of your vehicle with an included bracket. This kit is designed for use on a vehicle with an existing 4-way flat trailer connector, like yours, and plugs directly into it.
You will then connect the blue wire to the blue wire on the brake controller, connect the black wire to the positive post on the vehicle's battery, the white wire to ground, and the yellow wire to your Escape's reverse circuit. This will provide you with the ability to control your trailer's brakes and also provide you with a 12v power wire for you trailer's accessory lights.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Universal Wiring Harness - Dash Knob - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Splice-In
- Dash-Mounted Knob
- Behind-Dash
- Up to 2 Axles
- Indicator Lights
- Single Trailer Only
- Redarc
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Jerred H.
1/12/2026
Hey Greg, how did things go with wiring the Tow-Pro Liberty brake controller and the ETBC7 kit on your Escape? Were you able to get everything connected and working smoothly? Your update could make it easier for others adding a brake controller to the same setup.