Hitch, Wiring and Brake Controller for Use with Volkswagen or Audi to Tow Small Trailer with Brakes
Question:
Hello, Im considering purchase a recent year model say 2013 VW golf or Audi A3. I plan to tow a light trailer with electric brake occasionally 2000lbs max weight, and 100lbs tongue weight. Do you have any recommendation on the towing hitch and brake controller? Thanks.
asked by: Jia P
Expert Reply:
We can help you with everything you need to set up your new vehicle for light towing!
The fits of hitches and wiring can vary depending on the particular model year and vehicle version you choose, so while my recommendations do apply to a 2013 Volkswagen Golf you will want to be certain that once you do purchase the new vehicle you have correct compatible items. By all means come back to us once you are certain of the car you're going to get.
We offer several light-duty Class I hitches for the 2013 Golf (as long as it is NOT the R version). The one I recommend is the Draw-Tite # 24825. This offers the same capacity as the other hitches but costs less. You will also need a ball mount and hitch ball. The linked article will explain how to choose a ball mount that will allow your towed trailer to be level, which is important for good handling. I included a link to our page for Class I ball mounts so you can select one with the correct amount or rise or drop to keep the trailer level. You will also need a hitch ball of the same diameter as the coupler on your trailer.
In order to use a brake controller you will first need a 4-pole trailer wiring harness such as # C59236. To this you will add a brake controller installation kit # ETBC7 and the brake controller of your choice. For overall ease of use and flexibility I recommend the popular Prodigy P2, part # 90885. This reliable controller is highly rated by our customers.
I have also linked a range of helpful articles, two on hitch installation tips, two concerning brake controller installation, and one on towing basics. All of these will give you a good start.
I suggest you make sure the vehicle you choose is rated for towing a trailer. Refer to the owner's manual or consult with your local dealership.
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Products Referenced in This Question
Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Up to 4 Axles
- LED Display
- Up to 360 Degrees
- Tekonsha
more information >
Curt Powered Tail Light Converter with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Converter
- Universal Fit
- 4 Flat
- CURT
more information >
Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Draw-Tite Sportframe Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class I
- 200 lbs TW
- 2000 lbs GTW
- 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Visible Cross Tube
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
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