Recommended 7-Way Harness for a 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee w/out the Factory Tow Package

Question:

I have a 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee w/o tow package. I want to be able to pull my camper with brakes. I have the hitch I need in my cart but I am looking for guidance on what I need to wire up a 7 pole connection. I would also like recommendations on a brake controller that doesnt have to be mounted in the cabin if possible. I have been looking at C51170 but not sure if that is the right type of controller. Any assistance you can provide would be greatly appreciated

asked by: Steve

Helpful Expert Reply:

Since your 2020 Grand Cherokee does not have the tow package you will need two separate wiring harnesses to install a 7-way connector. The first harness you will need is the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness item # C62VR. This is custom fit and plugs into existing wiring behind your rear tail lights. It will provide you with a 4-flat connector.

The second harness you will need is the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller item # ETBC7 or item # ETBC7L if you plan on using a wireless brake controller like the Curt Echo item # C51180. The difference being the brake controller wire that has to be run into the cab is included with the item # ETBC7 but not the item # ETBC7L. Both of these kits include a pre-wired 7- and 4-way trailer connector that mounts easily at the rear of your Jeep with an included bracket. These kits are designed for use on a vehicle with an existing 4-way flat trailer connector and plug directly into it.

I am going to point you in a different direction from the Curt Spectrum Trailer Brake Controller item # C51170. Instead, I recommend the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Trailer Brake Controller item # RED24FR. This is also a proportional brake controller that automatically adjusts your trailer's braking based on the deceleration of your Jeep. The Liberty even has a similar design where the main unit is concealed behind your dash and the only part visible is the control knob. Redarc makes a far better product when it comes to brake controllers than Curt does. That is the only thing they do and they make some impressive brake controllers. An added bonus is you will save some money going with the Redarc over the Curt.

You will need the Universal Wiring Harness for Redarc Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controllers item # RED69FR to complete the installation, since your Jeep does not have the tow package.

Both of these brake controllers will require the the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller item # ETBC7 as they rely on the blue brake controller wire to send the signal to the trailer.

I have linked an installation video below that will help you get the Tow-Pro set up along with videos for the wiring harnesses.

I am not able to see in your cart but the best hitch for your Jeep is going to be the Curt Trailer Hitch item # C13065. I really like this hitch because the cross tube mounts behind your rear bumper cover leaving only the 2" receiver visible.

To round out your towing setup I recommend the Curt Towing Starter Kit for 2" Hitches item # C45534. This towing kit will provide you with a 2" ball and a fixed ball mount with a 3/4" rise and 2" drop. It also includes a hitch pin and clip, hitch receiver lock with keys, hitch cover, and a storage case.