Brake Controller and Wiring for a 2020 Subaru Outback Wagon

Question:

I want to equip my 2020 Subaru Outback Onyx XT wagon for towing, including a brake controller. Im looking to you for confirmation of compatibility, both with the Outback and between the components. I just installed your Curt Hitch item # CU89FR, which went great! I like the form factor and flexibility of the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite brake controller item # 331-EBRH-ACCV2. If I understand the guidance from your website, I will also need a 4 -way connector such as the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector item # C56040. It looks like I also need something like the 7-Way RV Upgrade Kit item # ETBC7 or ETBC7L I like that it offers both 4-pin and 7-pin connection flexibility, since I rent rather than own a trailer. Which do you recommend? Is there a difference other than the xxxxxLinch model uses 12 gauge rather than 10 gauge wire? Thanks in advance

asked by: Les S

Expert Reply:

Good work on finding all of that information on your own! You are indeed correct that those components are what you need to set up a brake controller on a trailer hooked up to a 2020 Subaru Outback Wagon.

The first item to get everything going is the 4-pole harness. The Curt T-Connector, part # C56040, is confirmed to fit your Outback and will give you the basic wiring for trailer lights. I've linked to a video installation on the 2020 Outback for you to consult.

Next, in order to use a brake controller (which a 4-pole isn't capable of), you need a 4-pole to 7-pole connector. For your case, the Universal Installation Kit that is needed is part # ETBC7. The reason you need this instead of the L is because the L is a "trimmed down" version of the other that people use when they don't need the additional wiring for a "traditional" brake controller. An example of that case would be if they went with a wireless controller like the Curt Echo, part # C51180. I've linked to a video installation of the Universal Kit on a 2011 Outback.

Finally, your brake controller. The Redarc Tow-Pro Elite, part # RED44FR, is a fantastic brake controller that, just as you said, has a great form factor and a lot of flexibility. I've linked to a video review of this controller as well.