Is Brake Controller Required for 1,280 lb Trailer Towed With 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan
Question:
Hello Is it necessary to have a trailer brake controller for a small 1280# trailer? Thank you.
asked by: William B
Expert Reply:
Assuming you have trailer brakes on your trailer, you will need a brake controller in order to operate them. If you do have brakes, I would recommend using them. Different states have different requirements based on weight so you will want to check your state law as well as the law of any states you may travel to.
In order to add a brake controller to your 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan you will need to start by adding a 4-way wiring harness. I recommend the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118811. This will plug into existing wiring, providing you with a 4-way that can power your trailer's signal lights. I would choose the Tekonsha over the others since it is the most reliable.
Once the 4-way is installed you will need the Universal Installation Kit # ETBC7. This kit comes with the adapter, wiring, and everything else you need to upgrade to a 7-way. The adapter will also allow you to maintain the 4-way connection should you need it for a different trailer.
For a brake controller, I recommend the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller - Proportional # RED24FR. The main unit of this brake controller mounts out of sight with only the control knob visible in your vehicle. The control knob will allow you to adjust the braking power and also acts as the manual override. It also offers simple diagnostics with thebright, colored LED. In order to install this you will also need the # RED69FR wiring harness.
I have attached some installation and review videos for your reference.
Products Referenced in This Question
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 >
Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller - Dash Knob - 1 to 2 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Dash-Mounted Knob
- Hidden
- Up to 2 Axles
- Indicator Lights
- Redarc
more information >
Universal Wiring Harness for Redarc Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controllers
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Wiring Adapter
- Redarc
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Powered Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
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