Upgrading 4-Way on a 2016 Toyota Highlander to a 4-Way and 7-Way Connector

Question:

I have a 2016 Toyota Highlander with dealer installed 4 pole that broke after 3 uses. Need 4 pole and 7 pole. What do you recommend? Only found 4 pole under vehicle search. Found a 4 pole and 7 pole but says not confirmed to fit 2016 Toyota Highlander. Should I try the 4 pole and 7 pole one? Thanks

asked by: Bob R

Expert Reply:

Sorry to hear about your broken equipment. We have exactly what you need to outfit your 2016 Toyota Highlander with a 4-Way (pole) and 7-Way (pole)!

If you would like to replace your 4-Way Flat connector then you can use the Hopkins part # HM11141825 to do so. However, if the wires are still getting a signal and just the connector is broken then you may want to keep what you have and just cut the 4-Way off to splice it together with the new connector.

To add a fully functioning 7-Way to your Highlander you will need to install the Universal Wiring Kit # ETBC7. Typically you would connect the 4-Way on this to the existing 4-Way on your vehicle, but if the wires are still getting a signal then you can just simply cut off the 4-Way on the # ETBC7 connector and splice it to your wiring with Butt Connectors # DW05744-5. I have attached a video of this kit being installed on a 2015 Highlander that you can follow. If you need a brake controller (to activate trailer brakes) then the Prodigy P2 # 90885 that is in the video is an excellent choice as well.

If you are just needing to use the basic trailer lighting functions on your trailer then you can install the Hopkins Adapter # 37185 instead. This is the exact same connector that comes with the # ETBC7 so you will just need to tie off any wires that are not used. This is highlighted in an installation video on a 2012 Highlander that I linked as well.

To avoid drilling into your trailer hitch you can use the No-Drill Mount Bracket # 18140 as well.