Recommended 7-Way Connector and Brake Controller for a 2019 Toyota Highlander

Updated 07/07/2025 | Published 06/28/2025

Products Featured in This Question

Mounting Panel for Redarc Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controller Control Knob

(733)

$13.00

Curt Towing Starter Kit for 2" Hitches - 2" Ball - 3/4" Rise, 2" Drop - 7.5K

(781)

$76.37

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:

I have a 2019 Toyota Highlander XLE with factory 4 prong wiring and hitch. Could you tell me what I would need to hook up a 7 prong with brake controller. If possible Id like to keep the 4 prong too. I would like a complete setup - plug and play. A package that includes everything to install completely. Thank you

asked by: Nancy C

Expert Reply:

Hey Nancy, thanks for the information. I have all the parts you'll need but there's no way to install a 7-way connector or a brake controller in your 2019 Toyota Highlander without cutting and splicing wires. I do have a way that will allow you to keep your 4-way connector though.

To add a 7-way connector, you'll need 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 Highlander 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 your Toyota's battery, the white wire to ground, and the yellow wire to the reverse circuit if applicable. 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.

For a brake controller, I recommend the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller item # RED52VR. The Tow-Pro Liberty has a unique installation method where the main unit is concealed behind your dash and the only visible part is the control knob. It comes with a universal wiring harness that will connect to your Highlander's brake light switch and a 12v power source.

I also recommend the Mounting Panel for Redarc Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controller Control Knob item # 331-TPSI-002 is designed specifically for your Highlander. This will allow you to install the control knob inside one of the knock out panels on your dash.

To round out your towing setup, I recommend the Curt Towing Starter Kit for 2" Hitches item # C45534. This towing kit will provide you with a 2" ball and a fixed ball mount with a 3/4" rise and 2" drop. It also includes a hitch pin and clip, hitch receiver lock with keys, hitch cover, and a storage case.

What kind of trailer do you have?

expert reply by: Jerred H

7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat
(click to enlarge)

Nancy C.

6/30/2025

Thanks for the great information Jerred! I got a Mission 6.5'x12' aluminum duel axel trailer.

Jerred H.

6/30/2025

@NancyC You're welcome! That's a nice trailer. What do you haul with it?

Nancy C.

7/7/2025

@JerredH I haul all sorts of things, from my side-by-side and snowmobile to lumber from time to time! I went ahead and ordered everything you recommended, and I just got it all installed yesterday. The instructions were super clear, although I did have a bit of a tight squeeze under the steering wheel! Everything is working wonderfully, and it looks like it was meant to be there from the start. Thanks so much for your help! Nancy