Recommended 7-Way Connector for a 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander

Updated 06/18/2025 | Published 06/12/2025

Products Featured in This Question

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

(2573)

$217.00

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

(3415)

$134.90

Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Brake Controller - Dash Knob - Off-Road Mode - Up to 3 Axles - Proportional

(1683)

$290.00

Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Brake Controller for Tekonsha Harness - Off-Road Mode - Proportional

(1683)

$317.00

Question:

Im in the middle of buying a 2025 Hybrid Grand Highlander, however, the factory hitch it comes with only has a 4 pin connector, and my trailer requires a 7 pin connector. Can you tell me the difference between ETBC7 and TK57VR? I really liked the Redarc Tow Pro Elite I put into my old Subaru because it was discreet. Is there a similar brake controller I can use? I there a specific harness Ill need to match with ETBC7 or TK57VR? Thanks!

asked by: Kyle S

Expert Reply:

Hey Kyle, congrats on the new SUV! I am a big fan of the Redarc brake controllers for the exact same reason.

The Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller item # ETBC7 plugs directly into your 4-way connector and requires you to run a brake controller, power, ground, and accessory wire. It's got all the fuses and wiring you need to complete the installation. For this set up you would need the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Brake Controller item # RED44FR.

The Tekonsha OEM Replacement Vehicle Wiring Harness w Brake Controller Adapter item # TK57VR is similar except it plugs into the same wiring harness your factory 4-way connects to and has a brake controller adapter that works with Tekonsha brake controllers. You still have to run the same amount of wires and splice in the brake controller adapter like you would a universal one. For this connector you'll need the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Brake Controller for Tekonsha Harness item # RED63RR.

I recommend going with the item # ETBC7 as it's more cost effective, requires less effort to install because the 4-way connector is right on the end of your hitch, and it provides you with both a 4-way and 7-way connector. The plug the Tekonsha item # TK57VR connects to is underneath a cup holder in your third row and you only get the 7-way. The brake controller wiring harness included with the Redarc item # RED44FR has the same wiring requirements as the one included with item # TK57VR so you're not saving any effort there.

What kind of trailer do you have? You can add this information and any other questions you have where it says Reply to Jerred H and I'll be happy to answer them.

expert reply by: Jerred H

Kyle S.

6/18/2025

I've got a Taxa Woolly Bear. While it's light enough that my state doesn't require trailer brakes (required at 3,000+ lb here) and I could technically get away with a 4-to-7 pin conversion so the plug fits, we live in a mountainous region with lots of valleys and I'm more comfortable spreading the braking load out between the vehicle and trailer. I'm also not willing to lose the ability to charge the trailer's battery from the car alternator with the conversion. Thanks for clearing up what I need!

Jerred H.

6/18/2025

@KyleS You're welcome! Glad I could help. I 100% agree with your decision. I would not want to rely on just my vehicle's brakes to slow or stop a trailer driving through the mountains. That Taxa Woolly Bear is a nice set up. Got any fun trips planned?

Kyle S.

6/18/2025

@JerredH We were in the White Mountains this past weekend, in a few weeks we'll be doing a loop between New England to the upper Midwest!

Jerred H.

6/18/2025

@KyleS That's really pretty. I've never ventured up to the northeast. The farthest I've been is Philly. I'm a mid-west and west coast guy. What stops do you have planned in the mid-west?