Brake Controller And 7-Way Recommendations For A 2024 Subaru Outback  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Hi Benjamin!

We can definitely get your 2024 Subaru Outback all set up with a 7-way and brake controller! Since you said you currently do not have anything on your vehicle though, you will need to start with a 4-Flat.

The Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # C56040 is a plug and play harness and will really only take 15 or 20 minutes to get installed. Super easy and straightforward. Once that's installed, you are ready to upgrade it to the 7-way.

For that, the # ETBC7 upgrade kit you found is what you are going to want. This will piggyback off that 4-flat you just installed and will get you the rest of the functions needed for a trailer with brakes. There are wires that need to be run up to the battery and cab of your Outback. I included an install video we have for this on a 2011 Outback, but the install will be much the same on your 2024. Once that's all installed, it's time for the brake controller.

We have a few options for this, but my favorite by far is the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Universal Wiring Harness - Dash Knob - Proportional # RED52VR. The Redarc brake controllers work extremely well (up to 2 axles and electric/electric over hydraulic brakes) and once they are installed, you will only see the adjustment knob. You do need to drill a small hole somewhere for the knob to go (either somewhere on the dash or in a blank switch/button port), but I think it's worth it. They look as close to stock as you can get with an aftermarket brake controller and don't take up any footwell space, which is a huge plus in my opinion (I'm 6'5" and always smack my knees on the traditional ones that hang down). I would honestly use a Redarc brake controller in my Silverado if it hadn't come with a factory one, and even then, I'm thinking about replacing that thing with one of these. I think they are the best ones currently on the market.

What kind of trailer are you going to be towing?

expert reply by: Lazer S

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ETBC7 Diagram
(click to enlarge)

Tim F.

4/17/2026

I have the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Universal Wiring Harness - Dash Knob - Proportional. There was some prewiring on my Chevy Colorado, so the wiring was easy. The controller works very well, and the proportioning is excellent. The dash control is very small, doesn't interfere with anything, or need but a little real estate. If I had another vehicle to wire, this is the way i'd go. By the way, I have been a etrailer customer for many years and always been happy with both the products and service/support! Tim

Shannon L.

4/17/2026

I installed the harness and brake controller 2 years ago and they work great. Took me a while for the install because I wanted it to be super clean and look like factory. Mission accomplished! Important to get an excellent ground that is reliable. I had a problem 6 months ago when my ground connection barely came loose and produced a computer fault in the car - after turning off the car and locking it the brake lights would flicker with no input. Let that go very long and you will lose battery charge. By chance, I found the loose ground on the brake controller harness an solved the issue.

Lazer S.

4/17/2026

@ShannonL Glad to hear it's still working well for you! And good call on the ground. A loose one can cause any number of weird things to happen. Good thing it's typically an easy fix! ^___^