Can an Electric Brake Controller be Used on a 2011 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

Question:

I just bought the 2011 Highlander Hybrid and plan to tow a 3200# -17 Casita trailer with electric brakes. Ive already have the OEM hitch and wiring harness with a 4-pin connector. To install a brake controller it must usually be tied into the cars break wire. The Toyota mechanics say that the wire may be multiplexed and not simply a DC signal-and may mess up other functions. Any advise on how to determine if it is a problem is appreciated. Thanks

asked by: Tom H

Expert Reply:

I spoke with my contact at Prodigy and he said that you should be able to install a Tekonsha P-3 Trailer Brake Controller - Proportional, part # 90195, onto your 2011 Highlander Hybrid.

He said that according to his wiring diagrams, there is a blue wire behind the brake pedal that you will use as the brake switch wire. This will attach to the red wire on the harness of the # 90195. However, he recommended that you use a multimeter like the 7-Function Digital Multimeter, part # PT89ZR, to make sure that it has 12 volts when the brake switch is activated and none when it is not. Once this is confirmed, you will know that the multiplexing will not be an issue for installing a brake controller on your highlander.

Next, you will need a Brake Controller 7 & 4 Way Installation Kit - 10 Gauge, part # ETBC7. I have attached an installation video of this unit on a vehicle similar to yours. Once you have this installed on your Highlander, you will be able to use the electric brakes of your 3200 lb 17 foot Casita trailer.

Another option that you have, that would work and would prevent you from having to mess with the multiplexed wiring of your 2011 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, would be a Tekonsha Prodigy RF Brake Controller - Proportional - Trailer Mounted, part # TK27FR. This brake controller actually installs onto your trailer and does not require a brake switch signal, all it needs is a 12 volt power source run through a 40 amp circuit breaker to the battery of your highlander.

I would recommend checking the blue wire like my Tekonsha contact suggested for the 12 volts when the brake is applied and zero volts when the brake is not applied. If that checks out, I would use the # 90195 that you referenced. If the voltage is different from that and it appears to be multiplexed I would recommend the # TK27FR.

It is also recommended that you consult with your vehicle manufacturers weight capacities before you tow a trailer with your vehicle.