Recommended Trailer Wiring and Brake Controller for 2018 Jeep JL Unlimited

Question:

Hello, I am confused, need help please. We have a 2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara 4x4 that does not have a factory tow package. I want to purchase the necessary items so that we can have the ability of trailer lights and break control when we hook up trailers. I see there are a multitude of different kits and some instructions say we need this and that if you buy this product... So now I dont know what to purchase. Im not brand loyal I really just want to buy everything I need all at once so Im not wasting time. Is there any chance you can tell me specifically what items I need to buy to make this work?

asked by: Leroy M

Expert Reply:

I can certainly help you out with the parts you'll need to add wiring to your 2018 Jeep JLU without the factory towing package; you'll want to start with adding a 4-way trailer connector that will provide you the base for everything else.

I recommend using the Tekonsha # 118786 for the 4-way because of the reliability of Tekonsha wiring and converters; this is a plug and play installation that connects to your existing tail light wiring. Once you've installed that, you'll need to add the wiring for a 7 way connector. I recommend using the # ETBC7 for that, and it comes with all of the wire and breakers needed for installation. This will give you the wiring you need to tow a trailer with brakes and then you'll just need to add a brake controller.

For a brake controller I recommend using the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 # 90195 and plug in wiring adapter # 3073-P. The P3 provides you with proportional braking for your trailer and has an easy to read LED display, plus the P3 has an internal sensor that detects deceleration even if the controller is not mounted flat. The P3 is one of our most popular and well reviewed brake controllers.

If you don't already have a trailer hitch, ball mount and hitch ball, you'll need those parts as well. For the hitch I recommend using the etrailer # e98856 since it's got a longer receiver tube; this will be helpful if you're looking to also carry bike racks or hitch mounted accessories since it helps get some extra clearance from the spare tire. To complete your towing setup I recommend using the etrailer Ball Mount Kit # 989900, which comes with 2 ball mounts with varying rise/drop, both a 1-7/8" and 2" hitch balls, a hitch pin, clip and carrying case. This is a great solution to cover towing a number of different trailer setups.

I've linked some installation and review videos of these parts for you to check out and use as a guide if you're going to be installing these yourself.