Brake Controller Installation on 2011 Honda Ridgeline

Question:

how to make the connection under the dash connecting a recently purchased cable to the plug under the dash which in turn connects to my Tekonsha brake controller.

asked by: Paul J

Expert Reply:

If your Ridgeline is equipped with the factory tow package, you can use the Tekonsha Wiring Adapter, part # 3070-P to connect a controller. The presence of the factory 7-way trailer connector on the rear bumper is a sure indication that your Ridgeline is equipped with the tow package.

To install the controller, simply plug the larger end of the connector into the connector located under the dash. The connector can be found taped to another harness, to the left of the steering column near the top of the brake pedal. the flat connector on the other end of the wiring adapter plugs into the rear of the Prodigy or Primus brake controller. Be aware that on some Ridgeline models, there might be need for a 20 amp fuse in position 6 of the secondary fuse box under hood for the brake controller circuits to be active.

If your Ridgeline was not equipped with the tow package, the connector under the dash will not be present. The brake controller will need to be hardwired using the Brake Controller Install Kit, part # ETBC7. The kit includes an adapter that would convert the existing 4-pole connector to a 7-way. If the Ridgeline was not equipped with a 4-pole trailer connector, you will also need part # 118400.

To view an FAQ article about brake controllers, instructions for the ETBC7 kit and an install video, click on the provided links. The video shows the install kit being used on a Honda Odyssey, but the procedure would be similar to that of your Ridegeline.