How To Convert a 4-Pole On a 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee To 7-Pole for Trailer Brakes

Question:

Does this harness work with the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4x4 that doesnt have the factory tow package?. The vehicle did come with a T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector and a Curt Class III Receiver Hitch - 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee already installed on it when I got the vehicle. I want to get a 7 prong connector harness and a brake controller to move an enclosed trailer later on and see if they are compatible.

asked by: Joseph M

Expert Reply:

The Universal Wiring Harness w/ ModuLite and Brake Controller Harness part # 22551 will work on a 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee yes. However, it would not be my first choice if the end goal was to add a brake controller. The reason for this has to do with the amount of work and modifications required to install the Universal Wiring Harness w/ ModuLite and Brake Controller Harness. This includes but is not limited to splicing into the stop light switch circuit, running wires in and out of the cab from the trailer connector, drilling into the dash to mount the brake controller.

Instead, I highly recommend using the 7-Way RV Upgrade Kit for Trailer Brake Controller Installation part # ETBC7L with the Curt Echo Mobile Trailer Brake Controller part # C51180 because the only things you will need to do to get setup and active brakes on a trailer are as follows:

1) Connect the 4-way on the vehicle to the 4-way on the adapter.
2) Ground the white wire to a bare metal surface.
3) Run the black power wire to the vehicle's battery.
4) Tape up the rest of the wires and mount the trailer connector bracket.

If you don't mind taking on more work to save some money then the Universal Wiring Harness w/ ModuLite and Brake Controller Harness with a standard brake controller like the Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller part # TK90160 will work just fine. However, if you want to save yourself some headache with installation then the 7-Way RV Upgrade Kit for Trailer Brake Controller Installation with the Curt Echo Mobile Trailer Brake Controller is by far your best option.