Will Trailer Hitch Affect Rear Automatic Braking Sensors on a 2025 Subaru Ascent?
Updated 08/15/2025 | Published 07/17/2025
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I am looking at getting this hitch for my 2025 Subaru Ascent Touring. It has rear automatic Braking. Will this hitch affect the function of the RAB sensors? If so, can you recommend a hitch that will not? Also, if Im using a brake controller, plug and play to existing wiring, which wiring kit do I need? Both the T-one and the universal, or just the Universal?
asked by: Oliver
Expert Reply:
Hey Oliver, thanks for reaching out!
The etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e55ZR won't affect the RAB feature on your 2025 Subaru Ascent, but once you start carrying anything in the hitch, the accessory might cause it to go off. You should be able to disable that feature in your settings or put the vehicle in "tow mode" so it won't detect anything at the rear.
If your Ascent comes with the factory tow package then you can just use the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Brake Controller w/ Custom Harness # RED25CR that plugs right into your existing wiring.
If you need to still install wiring at the back of your vehicle then that means you don't have the factory tow package, and you'll need the following parts to get a brake controller working:
- T-One Wiring Harness # 118790
- Universal Wiring Upgrade Kit # ETBC7
- Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Universal Wiring Harness # RED52VR
I also recommend picking up the Universal Mounting Panel # 331-TPSI-001 for a clean looking installation (see attached photo).
To you already have the tow package on your Ascent, and do you already have a ball mount for towing?
(click to enlarge)
Product Page this Question was Asked From
etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- For Towing
- Class III
- 750 lbs TW
- 5000 lbs GTW
- 5000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 750 lbs WD TW
- Concealed Cross Tube
- etrailer
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Q&A: Will etrailer Hitch Install for 2025 Subaru Ascent be the Same as 2021 Model Year?
- Q&A: Comparing Curt, etrailer, and EcoHitch Trailer Hitches for a 2022 Subaru Ascent
- Q&A: Suggested Hitch Option for Carrying Bikes on 2022 Subaru Ascent
- Q&A: Best Hitch for Carrying Bike Rack on 2020 Subaru Ascent
- Q&A: Best Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver For 2021 Subaru Ascent
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: Trailer Hitch Installation Tips
- Q&A: Is Curt RVi Series Shadow 2 Compatible With 2025 Jeep Gladiator
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 4-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Article: Which Hitches are Made in the USA
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
Jon G.
8/15/2025
Hey Oliver, did you find out if your Ascent has the factory tow package? I'm curious to know if the setup worked smoothly for you, as it could help others in a similar situation!