Brake Controller Installation and Recommendation for 2020 Subaru Outback

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Question:

Hi- Id like to have a trailer brake controller for a 2020 Subaru Outback for infrequent use. Its factory wired already for a 4 pin connector. What do you suggest?

asked by: Brian S

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

Even though you won't be using it frequently, I'd still recommend getting a proportional controller. A proportional controller will sense how quickly the tow vehicle is braking, and will send the proper amount of voltage to the trailer brakes so that the vehicle and the trialer brake at the same rate for safe, effective and predictable braking.

The fact that you're not planning on using it very often makes me suspect that you might prefer not to have a traditional-type controller mounted under your dash. If that's the case, the Curt Echo, part # C51180 could be the perfect choice. The Echo is wireless, and uses your smart phone to control the braking functions from the passenger cab while the controller plugs inline at the rear bumper between the trailer and vehicle. Although this is a more expensive option than a traditional controller, the install is less involved and time consuming and you won't need to contend with a controller mounted under your dash.

If that sounds like a good option, you'll also need the # ETBC7L install kit, which includes the adapter to convert the existing 4 pin connector to a 7-way, as well as the needed wire, hardware and circuit breaker to connect the 4 to 7-way adapter to the vehicle battery to supply power for the brake controller.

If you'd prefer a less expensive traditional controller, I'd recommend the Tekonsha Primus, part # TK90160 which uses a slightly different install kit, part # ETBC7 that also includes the adapter mentioned above plus additional wire, hardware, circuit breakers, etc.

I'll link to some installation and demonstration videos that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Mike L

1

Answer 1

Thank you for the purchase of the Draw-Tite #75229 trailer hitch and T-One #118275 for your 2015 Land Rover Range Rover Sport! We have exactly what you need to mount the 7-Way connector without having to modify anything. If you use the Easy Mount…

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Answer 2

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

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Answer 3

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

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Answer 4

Yes, we do. To add a hitch to your 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander, I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch item #C26VV. This hitch is custom fit and bolts to your Toyota with included hardware. This is a class III hitch with a 2" receiver. It has…

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Answer 5

The OEM prep package consists of 4 "pucks" in the bed of the truck that will allow you to drop in puck style hitches for easy installation and removal, that gives you a completely clear bed when not in use. The B&W Companion OEM 5th…

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Answer 6

Yep, so long as your 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness is not a hybrid both the Curt and etrailer hitches will fit: - Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver #C13382 - etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver #e98912 The only difference besides price is the finish; the…

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Answer 7

To add a class III hitch to your 2024 Honda CR-V hybrid, I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch item #C13397. This hitch is custom fit and bolts to your CR-V with included hardware. It is a class III hitch with a 2" receiver. I really like this…

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Answer 8

Class I and Class II hitches both have a 1-1/4 inch receiver opening. The difference is that a Class I hitch has a lower tongue weight rating, usually 200 pounds and a lower towing rating, usually 2,000 pounds. A Class II hitch usually has a tongue…

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Answer 9

Yes, it is! Honda and other manufacture's like to leave the fuses out of new vehicles that do not come with a functional towing package to save on costs. You can verify if you're missing the fuses by checking your fuse box but I am pretty…

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Answer 10

There is only one difference between the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver #C13176 and etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver #e98909 that fit your 2020 Chevrolet Colorado, which is the finish. The Curt trailer hitch has a glossy black finish while the etrailer…

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Answer 11

To add a hitch to your 2024 Toyota RAV4, I recommend the etrailer item #e23ZR. This hitch is custom fit and bolts to your Toyota with included hardware. This is a class III hitch with a 2" receiver. It has a 4,000 lbs towing capacity, and a 600…

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Answer 12

I definitely understand being a bit overwhelmed by the amount of options in front of you, however I can definitely help with differentiating the trailer hitches for your 2019 Subaru Outback Wagon along with explaining my personal recommendation,…

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Brake Controller Installation and Recommendation for 2020 Subaru Outback

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