Recommended 7-Way Connector for a 2022 Subaru Forester

Question:

I have a 2022 Forester Wilderness with a factory installed 4 pin and tow package. I just bought a used pop up camper trailer that has a 7 pin cable. What do I need to do to upgrade my vehicle and can I use an ebrake controller that is wireless? Thanks

asked by: Sue W

Expert Reply:

Since your 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness already has a 4-way connector you will need the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller item # ETBC7. The kit includes a pre-wired 7- and 4-way trailer connector that mounts easily at the rear of your vehicle with an included bracket. This kit is designed for use on a vehicle, like your Subaru with an existing 4-way flat trailer connector and plugs directly into it. You will then need to run a wire to the battery and a ground wire.

This and item # ETBC7L are the only options to install a 7-way connector on your Subaru. There is not a custom fit harness that just plugs into your existing wiring like the item # C56040 you were looking at.

You can definitely use a wireless brake controller with this set up. I recommend the Curt Echo item # C51180. The Echo plugs directly into your Forester's 7-Way connector and allows you to control the settings through an app on your phone. The Echo is also a proportional brake controller that slows or stops your trailer when your Subaru decelerates. It uses Bluetooth to communicate with your phone so you will never have to worry about losing signal. If your phone dies it automatically uses the default settings you program in.

Please note that if you do decided to install the Curt Echo item # C51180 you will want the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller item # ETBC7L instead of the item # ETBC7 because you will not need the blue brake controller wire. This will save you some money and an extra step you won't need during the installation process.

I have linked an review video below so you can see the features of the Curt Echo demonstrated.

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.