Adding a Brake Controller to a 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo that Did Not Originally have a 7-Way

Updated 07/14/2014 | Published 07/13/2014

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Wiring Kit for 2, 4, 6, and 8 Brake Electric Trailer Brake Controllers

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Digital Multimeter with 42" Long Test Leads - LED Display

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Question:

Any specifics to know to install a brake controller? An OE hitch was installed and the dealer did the programming for the 7 pin electrical connection. Would the brake control wire be already installed in the harness? What controller would you recommend for a single axle travel trailer? Thanks

asked by: Tom L

Expert Reply:

If your 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee did not come with a factory 7-Way trailer connector then the connector to plug in a controller may not be present or, if present, may not be fully functional. You can look to see if the plug is present. It is located under the dash, to the left and above the emergency brake pedal and up and to the left of the OBD II port. You will have to remove a trim panel to access this location. Take a look at the instructions I have linked for harness # TK93VR for help.

To test if this plug, if present, is functional you will need a helper, a 12 volt battery, and a multimeter such as # PT89ZR. You would need someone to apply power to the brake output pin on the 7-Way (5 0clock position) using the battery and a length of wire.

In the cab you will use the circuit tester to test the pins on that plug. If none of them have power then the wire is not ran from that connector all the way to the 7-Way.

Also, you will want to make sure one of the pins has 12 volt power to power the brake controller. And one pin should have power only when the brake pedal is pressed. If none or not all of these functions are present then you will have to hardwire in the brake controller using installation kit # 5506. You can then follow the relevant parts of the video and help article I have linked.

It is possible that it will all be functional without having to hardwire anything. If you determine that the brake controller port is there and active I reocmmend the P2 # 90885 and harness # 3045-P. The P2 is easy to set up, easy to use, and it is reliable.

expert reply by: Michael H