Does My Trailer Have Trailer Brakes and Parts Needed to Install Brake Controller in a 2006 MB Wagon

Question:

I recently purchased a used pop-up tent trailer that has a 6 point harness. I recently purchased a 2006 Mercedes E350 Wagon to pull said trailer periodically. I got and installed the hitch from you all. If the trailer has a 6 pin plug, does that mean that it automatically has a braking system that needs to be wired? Otherwise it would have a flat 4 pin plug, I assume...? If it needs a braking system wired, does that mean I must use a 6 pin from the car? Or risk being unsafe? For instance, if I get the Mercedes wired it is not yet, do I need to just get the four pin and buy an adapter, or do I need to be sure to get it wired for all six? I read several other questions and answers to but didnt see this clearly articulated. Thank you.

asked by: Mark

Helpful Expert Reply:

First thing you want to do is check to see if your trailer actually has brakes on it. Just because you have a 6-way doesn't necessarily mean you have them. You will want to look under the trailer at the back side of the wheel assemblies. If you see what looks like the backside of the part # 23-469 with two wires coming off of it then yes you do have trailer brakes. See picture.

If you don't have brakes all you would need is the part # A10-6034VP and you would be good to go.

If you do have trailer brakes you will instead need the part # ETBC6. This comes with everything needed to convert your 4-way to a 6-way and install a brake controller. I attached installation instructions and an install video for you to check out.

For a brake controller I would recommend the Prodigy P2 Brake Controller part # 90885. This is our best selling brake controller because of how well it works and how easy it is to setup.