Best Brake Controller for a 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid with a 4-Way Connector

Updated 07/17/2026 | Published 07/14/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Autowbrake Electric Brake Controller - Trailer Mount w/ Remote Fob - Up to 3 Axles - Proportional

(119)

$479.99

7-Way RV Upgrade Kit for Trailer Brake Controller Installation - 12 Gauge Wires

(392)

$88.79

Question:

Hello I am a 17ft Boler Trailer with brakes owner in Alberta Canada, we have recently switched tow vehicles to a 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. the SUV says it comes with tow package but that is only a hitch and 4 way flat plug. It was STRONGLY suggested to not splice into any wiring on the Hybrid beyond running a 12v power supply off the 12v accessory battery in the back of the vehicle. It seems that most trailer mounted brake controllers still need Brake wiring blue wire. The Autowbrake system seems to be the right fit for this issue as it reads like it requires only the 4way signals and a consistent power from 12v, but it is hard to get in Canada. You seem to be the authority on this so I am asking do you think this would be a good use case for Autowbrakes, then how can I sort out how to get it here. Also is it USA made as that seems to impact the border a bunch. Thank you for any help

asked by: Leigh A

Expert Reply:

Hi Leigh, the Autowbrake Electric Brake Controller, part # 3430001, is the right solution for your setup. It was designed for situations just like yours where you want to avoid installing a traditional in-cab brake controller or tapping into the factory wiring on a hybrid vehicle. It reads the signals from your trailer lighting and applies the trailer brakes proportionally, so you get smooth, controlled braking without modifying the wiring inside your Highlander. We do carry the Autowbrake and we ship to Canada, so you won't have to hunt one down elsewhere.

To make it work, you'll need to add a 7 way connector to your Highlander. I recommend the # ETBC7L. It plugs directly into your existing 4 way connector and only requires two additional connections. You'll ground the white wire to the frame of the vehicle and run the black power wire to the 12 volt battery using the included 40 amp circuit breaker. That provides the 12 volt auxiliary power the Autowbrake needs while keeping the installation clean and straightforward.

The Autowbrake itself mounts on the trailer, so there is a little more wiring involved on the trailer side during the initial installation. The nice part is that once it's installed, you're done. There's nothing to mount inside the vehicle, no controller under the dash, and no extra setup every time you hook up your 17 foot Boler. For a dedicated trailer, it's one of my favorite brake controller options.

I'm curious, do you spend most of your time towing your Boler across the Alberta prairies, or do you like taking it through the mountain passes?

expert reply by: Heather A

Doug

7/17/2026

I installed this in my camper trailer. I have a 2024 Highlander Hybrid. My daughter also borrows our camper (she has a Highlander Hybrid also). I wanted a brake controller that was installed in the trailer so we didn't need to buy 2 of them. This one works great. Easy Install. Also, the 12 Volt power line was easy to install since the battery is in the back of the Highlander.