Recommended Trailer Wiring and Brake Controller for 2020 Honda Odyssey

Question:

I installed a full trailer wire setup on my old van to tow my camp which has electric brakes. I gave the van to my son who also needs the brake controller so I let him keep it. Now I need to do the same again on my new van - a 2020 Odyssey. I can do the work I just need to konw what wiring works? I don't tow a lot so I don't need anything fancy.

asked by: Gabe

Expert Reply:

I'm not sure how you went about wiring your old van but with the new 2020 Honda Odyssey the easiest way to install a 7-way trailer connector is by first adding a 4-way and then converting it to the 7-way. For the 4-way I prefer the Tekonsha options because I like the converter box to be secured with a screw instead of double sided tape like the other option. One of two different Tekonsha harnesses work for your van; use part # 118753 if your van has no pins in the 10, 11, and 12 cavities in the fuse box behind the driver side access panel. The same goes if there's terminals in those same positions. You should be able to find this fuse box by checking in your owner's manual. If neither of those are the case then instead use part # 118781. I've linked videos of both installs on vans that are a little older than yours but the process is the same.

Once you have the 4-way then use our # ETBC7 kit to convert it to a 7-way. I've linked this install video as well. The kit includes everything you need including the 7-way adapter, circuit breakers, and wiring to connect to your brake controller.

Since your son kept your old controller a solid one to replace it is the Hopkins Agility, part # HM47295. It's a good quality controller that doesn't add the bells and whistles you don't need.

expert reply by: Charles S