Trailer Wiring Recommendation for a 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser

Question:

Hopefully you can help as I am greatly confused as of late. I have a 2012 FJ Cruiser. It came from the factory with a plug underneath the rear cargo area. According to the installation instructions that I downloaded for Toyotas wiring harness, what comes in their kit plugs into this and terminates at the bumper with a socket for the trailer to hook into. it also comes with a module or relay that goes up front. yet in the picture for the Toyota part, it shows a very long cable that isnt described anywhere in the instructions. On some of the forums Ive read, they talk about running a power line all the way back to the hitch area. So, i started looking at your products instead, but it seems like with your stuff i have to splice into existing wiring in back. Is this maybe for brakes? If i dont need brake control do you have a similar product that Toyota has that just goes from the connector plug that is already there? The thing I noticed the most was the cost difference. Toyotas is up over $100, where youre are under $50. I know online is usually cheaper, but even if i buy Toyotas on line, Im still near $100. Not sure if Im comparing apples to apples or not.

asked by: Adam E

Expert Reply:

First, dealer parts or OEM replacement parts are almost always more costly than aftermarket parts that serve the same functions so you are correct there. Regarding adding trailer wiring to your 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser I recommend going with the T-one connector # 118405. This unit just plugs in line with the vehicle tail lights.

It does require a power wire ran to the battery to power the trailer lights. This is what helps isolate the trailer from the vehicle wiring so if there is a short on the trailer it will not damage the vehicle. I have included a link to the installation instructions for you to view. I have also included a link to an FAQ article with tips on routing the power wire.

This wiring harness provides a 4-Way flat trailer connector. If you need a 7-Way blade style connector then you would use adapter # 37185 that you have referenced. If the trailer does not have electric brakes then you only have to plug in the adapter to the 4-Way and ground the white wire. The other wires can be stowed out of the way.

If you do want to add the 7-Way and make it fully functional then you will need the 4 and 7 way installation kit # ETBC7 and a brake controller. For a brake controller I recommend the popular P2 # 90885 which is easy to set up and easy to use. I have included some links that explain the ETBC7 and brake controller installations for you.