Parts to Add Trailer Brake Controller to 2017 Nissan Murano SL for Electric Trailer Brakes

Question:

We own a 2017 Nissan Murano SL and would like to tow a small 1000 pd trailer and have electric brakes installed to increase the stopping ability when towing. We were told that the vehicle was not equipped with the ability to do that. Is that accurate? Do we still have an option to make this happen?

asked by: Thad

Expert Reply:

With the exception of some pickup trucks that can come equipped from the factory with an OEM trailer brake controller, passenger vehicles like your 2017 Nissan Murano will need an aftermarket trailer brake controller installed along with the wiring to operate the trailer's lights. This is not a difficult process and in your Murano SL you can use any brand and model of controller you wish, but the Prodigy P2 # 90885 that you referenced in your question is an excellent choice since it is easy to use and has proven to be quite reliable.

You will need the controller itself # 90885, our brake controller installation kit # ETBC7 and a 4-pole trailer wiring harness # 118660 unless the Murano already has one.

You'll start by installing the 4-pole as shown in the linked video. This consists of plugging in a few connectors at the tail lights in the rear of the cargo area. With the 4-pole installed you will use the remaining components in the # ETBC7 kit to convert the 4-pole wiring format to the 7-way type that has the extra circuits for powering your trailer brakes and for other optional functions on the trailer such as reverse lights or auxiliary 12V power. These two other circuits do not have to be wired/activated for the trailer brakes to work.

The # ETBC7 kit includes the 7-way vehicle socket, wire and all other components needed. The linked article covers the kit installation and you can also refer to the other linked video that shows a Murano application.