Can Trailer Brake Controller Be Installed In 2021 Subaru Outback Without Any Splicing?
Question:
Im wondering why I cant connect a brake controller through a long wire to the tail light circuit in the back to activate the controller instead of splicing into the cold side of the brakes under the dash. Sounds like extra work I know, but I dont want to splice into the factory wiring and void any warranties. I could splice into the tail light wire of a flat four pole adapter purchased from you guys. And then connect that to a 4 to 7 pole conversion kit. That gives me 4 wires from front to back I think. Black Hot, blue brake line, brown brake/tail light activator wire and then white ground right? Thanks.
asked by: John S
Expert Reply:
I have a better option for you, but after reaching out to Tekonsha and Curt it is not recommend to splice into the brake light wire on a 4-way connector like the # C56040 for your 2021 Subaru Outback as it would be pulling power before the converter and could cause issues with the light functions working correctly. You would not be able to pull the signal after the connector as it would be combined with the turn signal and would apply the brakes when turning.
The option I recommend is going with the # ETBC7L and Curt Echo Wireless # C51180 instead as it does not need to be spliced into any of the factory wiring as it installs directly into the 7-way connector, and will also not require you to drill any holes in the dash for mounting, or running wires inside of the passenger compartment like a traditional controller would.
Now with all of that said, If you decided on a traditional controller and spliced into the cold side of the stop light switch you would not void your manufacturer warranty as you are protected by the Federal Magnusson-Moss Warranty Act which states that if something breaks on your vehicle the dealer must honor your warranty unless the aftermarket component added caused the issue.
I went ahead and included videos for the products mentioned for you to take a look at.
Products Referenced in This Question
Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller - 7-Way Plug Mount w/ Bluetooth App - 1 to 2 Axle - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Hidden
- Up to 2 Axles
- Smartphone Display
- CURT
more information >
Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Powered Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- CURT
more information >
7-Way RV Upgrade Kit for Trailer Brake Controller Installation - 12 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
more information >
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