Is a Brake Controller Required for a 2014 Toyota Highlander Pulling a 16ft Airstream Trailer

Updated 07/25/2014 | Published 07/24/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(1144)

$48.20

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

(3471)

$118.67

Question:

Dear Sirs, I am buying a 2014 Toyota Highlander and will the factory tow package option. I intend to use this vehicle to tow and 16 foot Airstream trailer with Gross Weight of approximately 3500-4000 pounds. Question 1: Will I need to purchase a trailer brake controller or is this part of a towing package from Toyota? Question # 2: After watching your video on installing this device, I feel this should be done by someone who knows what they are doing. Would the Airstream dealer be an appropriate installer?Many thanks!

asked by: Steve B

Expert Reply:

A brake controller would be required if your Airstream has electric brakes. Toyota does not include a brake controller in their factory tow package, so one would need to be added. The Tekonsha Primus IQ Brake Controller, # TK90160, that you referenced is a reliable brake controller that would be considered in the middle of the road as far as features go. My favorite brake controller is the Tekonsha Prodigy P3, # 90195. It's versatility and customizable display make this brake controller easy to setup and use. I have attached an installation video of this brake controller on a Toyota Highlander for you to check out.

If your Highlander already has a factory 7-way trailer connector, then you will also want our Brake Controller Wiring Kit, # 5505. If your Highlander does not have a factory trailer connector, then you will want to install a 4-way flat harness first. For this I recommend part # C56217 because it is a plug-in harness that does not require splicing or cutting into your electrical system. Once the 4-way harness is installed, you will want to install our Universal 4-Way and 7-Way Installation Kit, # ETBC7. The installation for this kit is covered in the brake controller installation video I attached.

The Highlander does not come with a plug-in style harness for a brake controller, so it would need to be hardwired. If you are not comfortable with this type of installation, then I would recommend having a professional do it. Most local shops will do the install for a nominal fee and the Airstream dealer would be a good option as well as long as they have a service shop. If a trailer dealer does not have a service shop, then they will typically recommend reputable installers in your local area.

expert reply by: John H