Trailer 7-Way Connector & Brake Controller on 2012 Toyota Tacoma
Question:
Hi there again thanks for answering my previous question. I have another one hopefully youll be able to help me out. So I got the 12 Tacoma with the tow package that allows a max 6500 lbs towing capacity. Ive done some research lately since Im new to the whole trailer thing and Ive read in some forums that I will still need a brake controller installed. Why is that? Arent the trailer brakes applied as soon as I press the service brake on my truck? Isnt that why the 7 pin connector is there for? doesnt it send a signal to the trailer brakes? Why wouldnt the dealer install that as well with the tow package if it was needed? In the picture Im sending the pins have individual labels and one says electric brake so Im thinking that pin activates the brakes? Im very confused hopefully you can help me out. Thanks.
asked by: Eduardo G
Expert Reply:
A 7-way trailer socket has a dedicated circuit for trailer brake power but that does not necessarily mean that the auto dealer installed a brake controller in the vehicle. Some trailers without brakes could still use a 7-way plug simply because it is a common format. Other connector formats, such as 6-way and even 5-way harnesses, can also support trailer brakes, but again, having such wiring on the back of the vehicle does not mean there is a brake controller installed.
The brakes on your 2012 Tacoma are hydraulic and do not connect to the trailer in any way. The only connection between the vehicle and trailer braking systems is the electrical signal taken from the brake light switch on the truck brake pedal which is the input used by a brake controller like the P2 # 90885. This brake pedal switch signal activates the controller so it generates a brake signal for the trailer's electric brakes. On a truck with a factory 7-way this controller is installed quite easily by plugging in the wiring adapter # 3040-P between the P2 and the connection port under the dash.
Please refer to the linked video.
Products Referenced in This Question
Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter for Electric Brake Controllers - Toyota and Lexus
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Wiring Adapter
- Plugs into Brake Controller
- Vehicle Specific
- Tekonsha
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Up to 4 Axles
- LED Display
- Up to 360 Degrees
- Tekonsha
more information >
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