Best 7 Way Wiring and Brake Controller for a 2024 Honda Odyssey Towing an Escapod Topo 2

Updated 07/09/2026 | Published 07/04/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Brake Controller - Dash Knob - Off-Road Mode - Up to 3 Axles - Proportional

(1745)

$280.21

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

(3562)

$106.75

Question:

I am looking for two things for towing my Escapod Topo 2 Tear camper. It has one axle, it has electric brakes, and it uses 7 pins for the hookup. We have a 2024 Honda Odyssey with the elite trim line and factory installed wiring and tow package. Alas, Honda only offers a 4 pin harness. I am looking for an adaptor that will go from a 4 pin tow vehicle to the 7 pin camper. I also want to be sure that the electric brakes work. Escapod told us to get a Tekonsha P2 Brake Controller. That was in 2024. I dont know if there is a better system out there now or not. I figured your staff would know the answer. So far, we have been using just an inexpensive and ugly adapter from U-Haul. I would like to find something more attractive cleaner looking without a bunch of visible wires and a white ground that travels up to the back gate for contact with the van frame, more permanent, and hopefully something that is also functional for the electric brakes installed on the camper. I do not know if that means one purchased item or two. Thank you in advance Jane

asked by: Jane H

Expert Reply:

Hi Jane, I'm happy to help, and you've already done some great research. You're exactly right to be thinking beyond a simple adapter. While there are adapters that convert a 4 way connector to a 7 way, they won't make the electric brakes on your Escapod work. A 4 way only provides the lighting functions, so there simply isn't a brake output wire available for the trailer brakes.

To have fully functioning electric brakes, you'll need to add a true 7 way connector to your Odyssey. I recommend the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller, part # ETBC7. It includes everything needed to convert your existing 4 way into a fully functional 7 way. It does require some hardwiring, including connecting to the cold side of the brake light switch, so if you're comfortable with wiring it's a very doable DIY project. Otherwise, many customers choose to have a local installer handle that portion for a clean, factory looking finish. We do have an installer locator if you tell me your zip code, I can point you in the right direction.

As for the brake controller, I know the Tekonsha P2 earned a loyal following over the years, but since Tekonsha changed ownership we no longer carry their products. Today my recommendation would be the Redarc Tow Pro Elite, part # RED44FR. It's an excellent proportional brake controller that delivers smooth, confident braking, and one of the things I like most is how clean it looks once installed. Instead of having a large box mounted under the dash, all you see is a small control knob, so it blends in nicely with your Odyssey's interior while still giving you full control over your trailer brakes. It also includes an Off Road mode, which can be a nice feature if your camping adventures include off roading with your Escapod.

I'm curious, where do you usually take your Escapod? I looked up some photos and it is really cool.

expert reply by: Heather A