Installing an Aftermarket Brake Controller on a 2011 Volvo XC90 with Factory Brake Controller
Question:
vehicle: 2011 Volvo XC90 I have a Volvo XC90 with the Volvo towing module, hitch and connector 7/4 pin combo. I want to add a brake controller for my new trailer, but the Volvo electronics are already controlling the breaks Im told, but on a on/off signal, no proportional control. Do you know how I can install the controller? I have a Primus iQ. Seems like I should be able to make all connections at front of car since it the wiring is already integrated, but no one seems clear on this after talking to my mechanic, a volvo dealer and a trailer place. Can you help?
asked by: Ezra P
Expert Reply:
From the research I did it is possible that on your 2011 Volvo XC90, that the brake output pin located in the 5:00 position, if looking at the 7-Way, is actually connected to a dedicate brake light circuit. In order to install an aftermarket controller, you will need to follow these steps:
First, use a circuit tester like # PTW2993 if needed to verify that there is voltage on that pin when you step on the brakes. If not, then see below for the second installation method.
The wire on the back of the plug for that pin will need to be cut a few inches back from the rear of the connector.
Next, you will need about 20 feet or so of # 10-2-1 wire. Attach the black wire inside to the brake controller blue wire and attach the other wire to the brake controller red wire. You will need to route these wires under the vehicle by exiting through the firewall. Route the wire under the vehicle avoiding the exhaust and suspension.
Once you reach the trailer connector attach the black wire to the end of the wire you cut that leads to the 7-Way. Attach the other wire to the other end of that wire for the brake input signal.
You will need to then attach a length of wire from the black brake controller wire and another length to the white brake controller wire, route them through the firewall, and over to the vehicle battery. The black wire will attach to the positive battery terminal via a 30 amp circuit breaker, # PK54530. The white wire will attach to the negative battery terminal.
The second installation method is if the brake output pin does not have a signal. You would still need to attach the brake controller blue wire to the 7-Way as explained above. You would not need to route the red wire back there.
instead, use a circuit tester to find the wire on the brake switch, above the brake pedal, that carries a signal only when the brake pedal is pressed. If you find a wire like this but it also shows a signal when the running lights are on it is not the right wire. Once you have found the correct wire attach the red wire to it.
The black and white connections will be the same as described above.
Products Referenced in This Question
Deka Jacketed 2 Wire, 10 Gauge, Brake Wire - per Foot
- Wiring
- Wire
- Jacketed Wire
- 2 Wire
- 10 Gauge
- Deka
more information >
Pollak Circuit Breaker - Cycling/Automatic Reset - 30 Amp - Straight Mount Bracket
- Accessories and Parts
- Wiring
- Circuit Breaker
- 30 Amp
- Pollak
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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