Trailer Wiring Harness for 2016 Toyota RAV4, is Adapter Needed to Activate Trailer Sway Control

Question:

The brochure for the 2016 Rav4 states it has built-in electronic trailer sway control. Does there need to be a special trailer wiring adapter which reports the presence of a towed trailer via CAN-Bus for this system to work?

asked by: Bob P

Expert Reply:

The trailer wiring harness I recommend for your 2016 Toyota RAV4 is the Tow Ready T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # 118578. I was unable to find anything that would indicate a special adapter is needed to communicate with the vehicle that a trailer is connected for the trailer sway control system. I have attached an installation video of the # 118578 harness for you.

I was able to access the 2016 RAV4 owner's manual for information on the Trailer Sway Control system. It seems that the trailer sway control is tied in with the traction and vehicle sway control systems. The manual notes that the trailer sway control will not operate if the vehicle sway control is turned off. No note is made of a special adapter being needed to engage the trailer sway control system.

The etrailer # e98864 that you referenced is confirmed to fit the 2016 Toyota RAV4. The installation instructions for the hitch are attached. I have also attached a link to help you determine the correct ball mount for you.

expert reply by: Victoria B