What Brake Controller Can Be Used On Both a 2020 Subaru Outback And a Ford Explorer

Question:

We are getting a small camping trailer that we will be sharing. We need to install a brake controller. First vehicle is a 2020 Subaru Outback with towing package. It has a 4 wire now. I know we need a 7 wire, right? The other vehicle is a Ford Explorer that has a tow package and a 7 wire already installed. Is there a brake controller we could share with the 2 vehicles? How hard is it to install a 7 wire on the Subaru?

asked by: John

Expert Reply:

Moving a brake controller between 2, or more, vehicles is definitely a possibility. With the Outback already having a 4-Flat installed, you are partially there. Part # ETBC7 will piggy back off the existing 4-Flat and has all parts needed to install a brake controller. I included an install video on a 2011 Outback, but it would be the same as the install on a 2020. Though this is fairly involved install, it is pretty straight forward and not overly difficulty.

The # 90195 Tekonsha Prodigy P3 is a great option to move between vehicles and trailers alike. It has a very easy to read LED screen, storable settings, and smooth even braking.

As to the Ford Explorer with the tow package and 7-Way plug, there should be a port under the dash specifically for plugging an aftermarket brake controller in. To move the controller from the Subaru to the Ford, you would need the mounting bracket # TK5906 and the adapter plug # 3035-P, which will fit a 2002 to 2021 Ford Explorer.

expert reply by: Lazer S