Recommended Brake Controller and 7-Way for a 2013 Toyota RAV4

Updated 03/27/2026 | Published 03/19/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller - Dash Knob - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional

(2710)

$190.00

Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(314)

$64.90

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

(3437)

$126.29

Universal Wiring Harness for Redarc Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controllers

(424)

$27.00

Question:

Can you recommend a trailer brake controller kit for a 2013 Toyota Rav4? We will be pulling a light trailer around 1300lbs which has a 7-way plug and electric brakes

asked by: Mike M

Expert Reply:

I sure can Mike! I saw you were looking at the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller item # ETBC7. This is one of the most important parts you'll need. It's going to add a 7-way connector and all necessary wiring to your RAV4. It includes a pre-wired 7- and 4-way trailer connector that mounts easily at the rear of your RAV4 with an included bracket. This kit is designed for use on a vehicle with an existing 4-way flat trailer connector and plugs directly into it.

Your 2013 Toyota RAV4 will need to have a 4-way connector installed as well. If you don't already have a factory or aftermarket one, I recommend the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness item # C56350. This one's custom fit and plugs in directly behind your rear taillights.

For a brake controller, I highly recommend the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Trailer Brake Controller item # RED24FR. This is a proportional brake controller that automatically adjusts your trailer's braking based on the deceleration of your RAV4. The Liberty has a unique installation method where the main unit is concealed behind your dash and the only part visible is the control knob.

You will need the Universal Wiring Harness for Redarc Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controllers item # RED69FR to complete the installation, since your Toyota does not have a plug in adapter.

What kind of light trailer do you have?

You can add this information, along with any other questions you have, where it says Add Comment.

expert reply by: Jerred H

Tow-Pro Liberty
(click to enlarge)

Dean

3/22/2026

Still enjoying our Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller on our 2018 4runner!

Jerred H.

3/22/2026

@Dean That's great to hear Dean!

Dan

3/22/2026

Very happy with this controller. We tow a vintage travel trailer that weighs 3200 lbs with a 2024 Nissan Pathfinder that has 6000 lb towing capacity. The controller is very simple to adjust and the finished installation looks like a factory install. I highly recommend it.

Jerred H.

3/22/2026

@Dan Thanks for sharing your story Dan! I really appreciate you taking the time and I'm glad the Redarc item # RED24FR is working out so well for you.

Brian

3/22/2026

It has worked flawlessly in our 4Runner for two years using two different trailers. The best part was the easy installation. I woutby it again for sure. Great install videos available also.

Jerred H.

3/22/2026

@Brian Happy to hear your enjoying the Redarc item # RED24FR and it was easy to get installed! Thanks for taking the time to share your story.

David

3/22/2026

I installed it in a 2015 suburban without the full trailer package, towing a 22’, 5000lb trailer. It was easy to install, the hardest part was probably deciding where to put the dash mount control. Where it would be easy to adjust and see, along with a location on the dash that I could get to. I really like that it’s fairy inconspicuous, and of course that it works good! I’ve really liked it. I would get it again. If they have a custom harness for your vehicle, do it, it really helps To make the install easy.

Jerred H.

3/22/2026

@David Thanks for sharing that feedback David!

Randy B.

3/23/2026

I no longer have the truck, but I got the red arc brake controller for a 2017 f150. It was a little tuff getting it where I needed to put it, but ford sent a pigtail with the truck, so hook up wasn’t bad. I pulled a 20’ camper quite a few miles, it was simple to use and always worked well.