Recommended Plug and Play Brake Controller for a 2012 Toyota Tacoma and Location of the Factory Port

Updated 10/30/2025 | Published 10/10/2025

Question:

Hi. When I checked under the dash on my 2012 Tacoma for a controller receptacle I found one that says OBD2. Does that make since to you?

asked by: John T

Expert Reply:

Yes, it does John. The OBD2 is the diagnostics port that repair shops and inspection places use to connect to your 2012 Tacoma's computer.

The electric brake control harness on your 2012 Toyota Tacoma will be located underneath the drivers side dash to the left of the steering column. It should be taped to another harness near the emergency brake pedal. It will be a 5-pin connector.

The best brake controller for your Tacoma is going to be the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Custom Harness item # RED82CR. This brake controller has a unique installation method where you can mount the control knob on your dash or console and hide the main unit out of sight. The included custom fit wiring harness will give you an easy plug and play installation. There are also trim pieces included that will fit in an empty knock panel on your Tacoma's dash. I have attached a picture below that someone sent in so you can see what this looks like installed on a Tacoma.

The Tow-Pro Liberty item # RED82CR is a proportional brake controller that automatically adjusts your trailer's braking based on the deceleration of your Tacoma. It uses the same amount of force your truck is slowing or stopping with to engage the trailer's brakes.

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

2012 Toyota Tacoma
(click to enlarge)

Tow-Pro Liberty
(click to enlarge)

Jerred H.

10/30/2025

Hey John, how did things go with finding the brake controller harness under your Tacoma’s dash? Your feedback could really help others trying to locate the same connector. Sharing what worked for you would be great for the next person tackling this setup.