Installing Trailer Brake Controller on 2018 Chevy Traverse

Question:

Do you know if the 2018 Chevy Traverse without the trailer kit still come with the blunt cut wires? If so, are the wrapped up within the other wiring, and need taken out?

asked by: ChevyLover

Expert Reply:

Based on my research it does look like the 2018 Chevy Traverse is equipped with blunt cut wires beneath the dash for installing a trailer brake controller as part of its standard package. To be certain of this you can visit a local Chevy dealer with your VIN and they will be able to tell you exactly what the vehicle was equipped with at the factory or you can simply check the appropriate location inside the Traverse to see if the wiring is present.

On the 2018 Traverse the blunt cut wires should be inside the front driver side instrument panel, below the headlamp switch. These wires are most likely taped to a larger black harness and they will need to be pulled free. If present, there will be a blue wire (brake output to 7-Way), a red/black or red/blue wire (12V power), a white/blue wire (brake input signal), and a black wire (ground).

Once you locate these wires you just need to hardwire in a brake controller such as the excellent Tekonsha Prodigy P3 # 90195. The blue wire from the P3 will go to the blue wire on the Traverse, the red wire will go to the white/blue wire, the black wire will go to the red/black or red/blue wire, and the white wire will go to the black wire.

If you don't yet have a 7-Way connector at the rear of the vehicle I recommend the Tekonsha T-One # 118287. This will plug right into a factory port beneath the Traverse on the driver side. I have attached an installation video you can use for reference. I do still recommend checking to make sure this port is present on your Traverse before ordering the harness.

Please just let me know if you cannot locate the blunt cut wires for the brake controller and I will be happy to recommend the additional items you will need.

expert reply by: Chris R