4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Wiring Recommendation for Towing with a 2018 Acura MDX
Question:
I don't have any wiring connectors on my 2018 Acura MDX but I am needing to add both a 4-way and a 7-way so that I can tow a trailer with brakes. What parts do I need?
asked by: Holly
Expert Reply:
To start off you need a 4-Way connector on your 2018 Acura MDX. I recommend the Tekonsha T-One # 118628 because we have found the Tekonsha wiring to be the most reliable and it has the highest amp ratings so it can deliver more power to the trailer lights.
Then to add a 7-Way connector you need to install the Universal Wiring Kit # ETBC7. This includes the adapter as well as all of the wiring and connectors needed to add a brake controller to your Acura MDX.
If you don't already have a brake controller then I highly recommend the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite # RED44FR as it has a user-control mode and a proportional mode, and it also installs out of the way so that only the control knob is visible. The user-control mode activates your brakes at a predetermined strength while proportional activates your trailer brakes in proportion to the brake pedal in your tow vehicle. I have attached a sample installation video of the ETBC7 kit and this being installed on a 2016 MDX for you to reference.
I recommend using the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e98840 if you don't already have one installed as it has a bracket attached to mount your wiring connector which contributes to the clean looking installation.
To complete your towing setup you also need a ball mount kit. I recommend the kit # 989900 which gives you both a 1-7/8" and a 2" hitch ball as well as a ball mount with a 3/4" rise/2" drop and a ball mount with a 2-3/4" rise/4" drop. Please be sure to check out the linked ball mount article to ensure that these will work for your towing application.
I have also attached an installation video of the trailer hitch for you to reference. You will want to check out your owner's manual for any additional information regarding safe towing and weight ratings.
Products Referenced in This Question
etrailer Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches - 7,500 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball Mount
- Fixed Ball Mount
- 1-7/8 Inch Ball
- 2 Inch Ball
- Two Balls
- Steel Ball
- Steel Shank - Gloss Black
- Drop - 2 Inch
- Drop - 4 Inch
- Rise - 1 Inch
- Rise - 3 Inch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- 7500 lbs GTW
- Class III
- Ball Mount Kit
- etrailer
more information >
etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 900 lbs TW
- 6000 lbs GTW
- 8000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 900 lbs WD TW
- Concealed Cross Tube
- etrailer
more information >
Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
more information >
Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Brake Controller - Dash Knob - 2 Braking Modes - 1 to 3 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Dash-Mounted Knob
- Hidden
- Up to 3 Axles
- Indicator Lights
- Redarc
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Powered Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
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