Installing the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Brake Controller from Scratch on a 2010 Chevy Traverse

Question:

how do you tie the controller into a 2010 traverse that does not have the factory tow package. I am looking at a trailer with brakes and a hwight of 1700. I would like to use the brakes if possible. Thanks

asked by: chris c

Expert Reply:

Without a factory tow package, you will need to hardwire the Prodigy P2 brake controller, # 90885 (installation details linked below) for your 2010 Chevy Traverse.

First, you will need to install Tow Ready Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring, # 118450. I have included a video installation on a similar vehicle. Next you will need to install a 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit, # ETBC7.

Plug the 4-Way you previously installed into the back of the ETBC7. There will then be 4 wires left to connect: blue, black, white, and purple. First, attach the white wire to the vehicle frame. Using a circuit tester # PTW2993 find the wire for the Traverse reverse lights and attach this wire to the purple wire. Using the included duplex cable, attach the black wire in the cable to the black wire on the ETBC7 and attach the white wire in the cable to the blue wire on the ETBC7. Next, route the duplex cable under the Traverse, up through the engine compartment, and over near the battery. Be sure to avoid areas that might pinch or burn the wires.

Under the hood, mount a 40-amp breaker. Attach the black wire to the silver post on the breaker. Next, run a length of wire from the other post to the positive battery terminal. Route the white wire from the duplex cable through the firewall and over to where you plan to mount the brake controller. This wire attaches to the brake controller blue wire. Inside the cab, mount the brake controller.

Attach a length of wire to the black wire on the brake controller and another length of wire to the white wire on the brake controller. First route the wire connected to the brake controller black wire. Attach it to a 20- or 30-amp breaker (see brake controller instructions for which size to use), and then to the positive battery terminal. Next, route the brake controller white wire through the firewall and attach it to the negative battery terminal.

Back in the cab, there is one remaining connection. Using the circuit tester, find the wire on the brake switch above the brake pedal that carriers a signal ONLY when the brake pedal is pressed. If you find a wire that carries a signal at any other time (like with the blinkers or headlights on) it is not the correct wire. Once the connections are made tie up and conceal any loose wires and installation is complete.

I have included a link to an FAQ article on installing a brake controller from scratch and a video showing installation of an ETBC7 kit.