Installing Tekonsha Brake Controller on 2018 Toyota Tundra without Tow Package  

Question:

Expert Reply:

You can absolutely install the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller # 90195 (or any other controller) on your 2018 Toyota Tundra even though it isn't equipped with the factory tow package.

The 2018 model year Tundra is a little tricky, as we have found that Toyota starting adding the brake controller plug behind the dash about halfway through its production so some have a plug for installing a controller and some don't (whether or not you have the tow package wouldn't affect this).

I would start by checking to see if this plug is present. I have attached a diagram that calls out its location, which is behind the three button panel to the right of the steering column. You will need to first remove the panel below the three button section, which will allow you to actually pull the three button panel away.

If you find the small white plug then it's just a matter of using the Tekonsha Adapter Harness # 3031-P to install the controller.

If this plug isn't present then you will need to hardwire the brake controller and the adapter harness won't be needed. Tekonsha actually released official steps for hardwiring a brake controller on the 2018 model Tundra because there isn't a convenient location behind the brake pedal to access the needed stop light switch. I will copy the steps below:

Option 1: Use the left taillight to access the stop signal. The light blue wire, of the bottom light socket, is the stoplight circuit.

Option 2: You can use the brake light circuit at the 3rd brake light in the cab. The headliner will need to be lowered to access the wiring.

Power and ground, for the control will connect to the positive, and negative terminals of the
battery. There are two grommets in the firewall, on either side of the brake master cylinder, to
route the brake control’s wires into the cab. For the wiring you would need installation kit # 5506.

The 7-way harness is intergraded into the main frame harness. This harness routed down the right
hand frame rail to a junction box. This is located under the hood on the passenger side, near the
firewall. The power, ground and brake wire for the 7-way, plug into the main wire harness. The blue wire in this location would connect to the blue brake controller wire.

Since your Tundra doesn't have the tow package, you may just need to add some additional fuses or relays under the hood to activate all the circuits. You will need to obtain these from a local Toyota dealer.

Another option for a brake controller that will offer an easier install is with the Curt Echo # C51180. This unit simply gets plugged into the truck's 7-Way connector at the bumper and is paired to your smart phone via Bluetooth. This eliminates the need to wire in or mount anything inside the cab.

I have attached a video demonstration below that you can check out as well.

expert reply by: Chris R

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