Parts Needed To Install a Trailer Brake Controller For a 2019 Toyota RAV4 With 4-Way Flat Connector

Question:

I have a 2019 RAV4 w/ a flat 4pin trailer connector. I just bought a trailer with a 7-pin connector trailer brakes. If I was to convert the 4-pin connector to a 7pin, would I still need to get a brake controller? If yes, does it make sense to switch to a 7-pin connector or simply use the 4-pin - 7-pin adapter I have and buy the brake controller separately? Thanks in advance for your time.

asked by: Jeff

Expert Reply:

You really have 2 options depending on which type of trailer brake controller you wish to go with on your 2019 Toyota RAV4. Either way you will need to install a 7-way on your RAV4 since you will also need to run a charge line(charges breakaway battery). You will need to select from a Dash Mounted Controller # RED52VR or a Bluetooth Controller # C51180. Both have their benefits but I personally prefer to have a dash mounted controller as it will not require me to use my phone to adjust the brakes.

For a Dash Mounted Controller # RED52VR you will need our 7-Way Brake Controller Kit # ETBC7. This will provide you with a 7-way which plugs into your 4-Way # C56434. It also includes the wiring and circuit breakers needed to fully install both the brake controller and the charge line.

For a Bluetooth Controller # C51180 you will want the 7-Way Upgrade Kit # ETBC7L. This is very similar to the kit above but it only has a single wire which runs to the vehicle battery. This provides power for the charge line which will power the Bluetooth controller.

Both of these kits have an additional 4-way with the 7-way so you will not need an adapter or need to unplug the connector if you also pull a trailer with a 4-way connector.