Parts Needed to Add 7-Way and Brake Controller to 2019 Toyota Highlander
Updated 07/09/2026 | Published 07/02/2026 >
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Question:
We have a 2019 Toyota Hylander with NO tow package. We had a hitch and 4 pin connector installed by U-Haul shortly after we purchased the vehicle new in 2019. I now need to install a 7-way trailer plug and wiring on the vehicle to tow a small RV we recently purchased. I also need to install Trailer Brake Controller. I tried looking on your site for the specific parts I need, but Im sorry to say that I couldnt figure it out. I would greatly appreciate your assistance. Thank you! God bless you, Mike
asked by: Michael R
Expert Reply:
Hey Mike! I would be happy to help you find the parts you need so you can tow your new trailer. Since you already have a 4-way you can use the # ETBC7. This comes with the adapter, wiring, and everything else you need to upgrade your 4-way to a 7-way.
Then for a brake controller I recommend the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty # RED52VR. This brake controller is incredibly reliable, really easy to use, and wont' take up space in your cab. You can also add the Mounting Panel # RED48FR and install it in place of a blank switch for a true OEM look.
What kind of trailer did you get?
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Universal Wiring Harness - Dash Knob - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Splice-In
- Dash-Mounted Knob
- Behind-Dash
- Up to 2 Axles
- Indicator Lights
- Single Trailer Only
- Redarc
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Mitch
7/9/2026
I used all the parts suggested to add the 7 way to my 2015 Highlander. The brake controller uses 2 power feeds and I only ran 1 heavier gauge wire from the battery to the interior and then split it to feed the controller and the 12 volt power wire. It's hard enough to find a decent place to get a wire thru the firewall without drilling more holes and being Houdini to work on this. The controller, itself, is a nice unit and using the mounting panel that fits in a vacant spot on the dash is super clean and keeps the control knob very accessible. NOW, getting that panel installed is a Houdini act. Take your time and try 90% of the tools you have to find just the right combination to remove the original blank panel and you're almost done.. LOL 1 more note, their video's show running the universal wire harness UNDER the car to the back. In my world that is a huge no-no. I live in MN/WI with slush, snow and ice that build up under a car and will drag that harness down, unless you use 30 zip ties to hold it very 6-8". I removed the rear, left interior panel and zip tied it to the factory harness, out of the way. From there, it goes under the step plates/carpet to the front kick panel. It took me 2 days, comprising about 8 hours, to complete this, but it can be broken down into a few hours at a time. Removal and install of the interior panel for the harness and the brake light connection at the high mount brake light on the car take the most time. Yes, it is far quicker to run it under and hope it never comes in contact with other parts and gets damaged, but I don't work that way.