How to Install and Wire a Brake Controller on a 2004 Acura MDX and Where to Run Wires
Question:
I have all my parts, and have installed my hitch and 4pin wiring harness. Youre videos have been great to explain the fundamentals of installing the brake controller and wiring. My problem is locating a point to push the wires through to the engine compartment on my 2004 Acura MDX same as a Honda Pilot. The firewall divider is covered with padded insulation on both sides, Ive been unable to find a grommet that is accessible from the foot wells on either side or anywhere under the seats. The only thing I can think to do is try running the battery wires under the car all the way to the rear of the vehicle where Ive already routed the wiring harness and then push the wires under the carpet all the way up to the controller. But this doesnt seem like a good solution either. Can you give any advise on where to look, or other solutions? I dont want to drill straight through blind because the engine compartment is so tight its very hard to see where it would be going. Thanks
asked by: Jordan C
Expert Reply:
I would start by checking behind the kick panels in the foot wells. On both the driver side and passenger side there are plastic panels right by the door frame. Often times you can find wire harnesses here that feed into the engine compartment and you may be able to follow one of those through the firewall.
Running the wire under the carpet would be a good way to run the wires, however, it would require quite a bit of extra work. The seats would have to be removed and the carpet would have to be pulled up in some spots.
If you cannot find a grommet by the kick panels or door frames, I would consider drilling down through the floor board and run the blue wire back to the ETBC7 and run the other up to the battery. You can find a suitable spot inside the cabin, and use a punch to put a small dimple in the sheet metal floorboard. Then when you crawl under the car, you can find the dimple to see if it is a safe spot to drill through.
If you decide to drill a hole, make sure you use a grommet to protect the wires going through.
