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2008 - 2013 Toyota Highlander
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Tekonsha is a leading manufacturer of electronic trailer brake controllers, pioneering the category in the 1970s. The lineup spans proportional units such as the Prodigy P3 and Prodigy iD, time-delayed controllers, the wireless Prodigy RF, plus vehicle-specific wiring harnesses, adapters and trailer brake components engineered for smooth, predictable stopping at any speed.
Tekonsha Engineering Company began in 1964 building RV steps and mirrors. Within a few years it had found its real calling, and by the 1970s Tekonsha was pioneering the manufacture of electronic trailer brake controllers, the product category that still defines the brand. More than half a century later it remains the reference name in trailer braking and is part of the Horizon Global group alongside Reese, Draw-Tite, Fulton, Bulldog and Wesbar.
A brake controller is the component that tells a trailer's electric brakes how hard to work and when, and getting that right is the difference between a controlled stop and a shove from behind. Tekonsha builds both major types. Proportional controllers use an internal accelerometer to sense how quickly the tow vehicle is slowing and apply trailer braking to match, so light braking stays light and hard braking is immediate. Time-delayed controllers ramp to a preset output over a fixed interval, a simpler and more economical approach that suits occasional towing.
The current brake controller range covers most of that ground. The Prodigy iD pairs with a phone through Tekonsha's EDGE technology for setup and monitoring, the P3 offers storable settings for multiple trailers and a trilingual colour LED display, the Prodigy P2 adds a dimmable display and boost mode for heavier loads, and the Voyager keeps operation simple and dependable. The Prodigy RF mounts to the trailer itself and controls wirelessly, which suits rental fleets and drivers who swap tow vehicles.
Installation is supported by vehicle-specific brake control harnesses that plug into a factory connector rather than requiring cut-and-splice wiring, along with mounting brackets and adapters. Matched controller bundles pair a unit with the correct harness. Products are tested to meet and often exceed published industry standards.
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1 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2008 - 2013 | Toyota Highlander | — |
The 2008-2013 Toyota Highlander Tekonsha Custom 7-Way + Brake Controller Install Kit (Part #TBCW17318) fits the following vehicles: 2008-2013 Toyota Highlander. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
Yes, the 2008-2013 Toyota Highlander Tekonsha Custom 7-Way + Brake Controller Install Kit (Part #TBCW17318) is designed to fit the 2008-2013 Toyota Highlander.
The 2008-2013 Toyota Highlander Tekonsha Custom 7-Way + Brake Controller Install Kit (Part #TBCW17318) fits 2008-2013 Toyota Highlander models. The 2013 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
The 2008-2013 Toyota Highlander Tekonsha Custom 7-Way + Brake Controller Install Kit (Part #TBCW17318) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
Yes, the T-Connector is designed for Toyota Highlander 2008-2013 and 2014-Current models. Installation procedures differ between these model years: 2008-2013 models require accessing the 10-pin tow plug under the dash on the driver's side, while 2014-Current models have the 10-pin and 4-pin connectors located behind the rear interior trim panel. Consult your vehicle's owner's manual to confirm your model year and factory tow connector configuration.
The kit includes the T-Connector black converter box, 10-pin and 4-pin tow-plug adapters, a 10A fuse, double-sided tape for mounting the converter box, and cable ties for securing the wire harness. An additional 10 amp fuse is located on the wiring harness underneath the dash between the 10-pin tow plug and the black box. The 4-flat connector should be stored in the trunk or rear cargo area when not in use.
You will need a test-probe and a trim panel remover. The test-probe is used to verify electrical connections, and the trim panel remover is needed to safely remove interior trim panels without damage during installation.
The manual does not specify that the battery must be disconnected before installation. However, the manual does state that for the initial test after installation, you should reset the vehicle electrical system by temporarily removing the key from the ignition.
On 2008-2013 models, route the converter over to the driver's side kick panel area and mount the black box in the opening between the vehicle body and the emergency brake pedal bracket using the double-sided tape provided. Be careful to avoid areas that would cut or pinch the wire.
On 2014-Current models, locate a flat surface in an out-of-the-way place on the driver's side and mount the T-Connector's black converter box with the double-sided tape provided.
Locate the vehicle's 10-pin tow plug underneath the dash on the driver's side between the emergency brake pedal and the brake pedal. Check that the mating surfaces match, then insert the 10-pin tow plug adapter and lock it into place. Be careful not to damage the locking tabs and ensure that connectors are fully inserted with locking tabs in place.
Open the vehicle's rear tailgate and remove access panels, threshold, trunk floor panels and trays on the driver's side. Locate the vehicle's factory 4-pin tow harness connector. Check that the mating surfaces are clean and free of dirt, then insert the 4-pin tow-plug adapter and lock it into place. Be careful not to damage the locking tabs and ensure connectors are fully inserted with locking tabs in place.
Open the rear tailgate and remove access panels, threshold, trunk floor panels and trays on the driver's side. Locate the 10-pin connector behind the rear interior trim panel and insert the 10-pin tow-plug adapter, locking it into place. Then locate the 4-pin connector behind the rear interior trim panel and insert the 4-pin tow-plug adapter, locking it into place. Ensure all locking tabs are engaged.
After mounting the black box, use the cable ties provided to secure the remainder of the wire harness and prevent wires from being exposed underneath the dash area. Be careful to avoid any areas that would cut or pinch the wire.
After repositioning the trays, trunk floor panels and access panels and reattaching the threshold, proceed to Step 8: open the hood and locate the vehicle fuse panel on the driver's side. Consulting your owner's manual, locate the Towing Fuse location and insert the 10A fuse provided.
Use a 10A fuse only. Do not replace with any fuse that exceeds 10 amps. An additional 10 amp fuse is located on the wiring harness underneath the dash between the 10-pin tow plug and the black box.
Do not exceed the lower of your towing manufacturer's rating or the following limits: maximum stop/turn light is 1 per side (2.1 amps), and maximum tail lights are 5.6 amps. Overloading the circuit can cause fires. Consult your vehicle's owner's manual and instruction sheet for additional information.
All connections must be complete for the T-Connector to function properly. Test and verify installation with a test light or trailer once installed. For the initial test, reset the vehicle electrical system by temporarily removing the key from the ignition.
Store the 4-flat connector in the trunk or rear cargo area when not in use.
Wear safety glasses and use all safety precautions during installation. Be careful not to damage the locking tabs on connectors. Avoid areas that would cut or pinch the wire harness. When removing interior panels, set aside all items carefully to avoid damaging parts. Ensure all connector surfaces are clean and free of dirt before inserting adapters.
Yes, it fits Toyota Highlander 2008-2013 and 2014-Current models. Installation steps differ by model year.
You need a test-probe and a trim panel remover.
No, the manual does not mention drilling. The black box is mounted using double-sided tape provided, and connectors are inserted into existing factory tow plugs.
Use a 10A fuse only. Do not exceed 10 amps.
Maximum stop/turn light is 1 per side (2.1 amps) and maximum tail lights are 5.6 amps. Do not exceed the lower of your towing manufacturer's rating or these limits.
Test with a test light or trailer once all connections are complete. Reset the vehicle electrical system by temporarily removing the ignition key for the initial test.
The BRAKE mate is a trailer brake control system that allows you to control trailer brakes from your vehicle. It connects to your vehicle's electrical system and includes a brake control unit that mounts under the dash, circuit breakers for power management, and a prewired connector that attaches to your trailer.
The manual does not specify which vehicle makes, models, or years are compatible with the BRAKE mate. Contact Cequent Towing Products technical service at (888) 521-0510 or consult a fitment database to confirm compatibility with your specific vehicle.
Yes. Step 4 of the installation instructions requires connecting the 4-pole flat connector to the vehicle's connector, which means your vehicle must already have a 4-pole flat connector. If your vehicle does not have one, the BRAKE mate cannot be installed using these instructions.
The kit includes: 1 prewired connector, 1 heavy duty flasher, 1 20 amp circuit breaker, 1 40 amp circuit breaker, 5 #10 G-ring connectors, 2 3/8" G-ring connectors, 5 Scotch locks, 8 self-tapping screws, and 6 wire tie straps.
The manual does not specify required tools. However, based on the installation steps, you will likely need a drill (to create a firewall hole if one does not exist), wire strippers, a screwdriver (for self-tapping screws), and possibly a crimper or pliers for ring connectors. Contact technical service at (888) 521-0510 for a complete tool list.
The manual does not specify whether the battery must be disconnected before installation. Contact Cequent Towing Products technical service at (888) 521-0510 for safety guidance before beginning work.
Mount the bracket for the round connector on the bumper if that is where you intend to install it. Some hitches have built-in brackets, so check your hitch first before mounting a separate bracket.
Mount the brake control unit under the dash onto something firm. The unit must be securely fastened to a solid surface.
Mount the 2 circuit breakers (20 amp and 40 amp) end to end on the firewall within reach of the BLUE/BLACK cable. Secure them with the self-tapping screws supplied in the kit.
You may need to drill a hole through the firewall to run the BLUE/BLACK 2-strand wire from the engine bay into the cab. Look for an existing spot first; if none is available, drill a hole and seal it with a rubber grommet or silicone to prevent water and debris from entering the cab.
Some hitch brackets may need to be cut to allow the various connectors to pass through. Check your specific hitch bracket during installation; if it blocks connector passage, you will need to cut it.
Yes. In step 9, you must cut the black wire to create two open ends. These ends are then fitted with ring connectors and attached to the 40 amp and 20 amp circuit breakers respectively.
WHITE = ground wire; BLUE/BLACK = 2-strand power and trailer brake wire (runs from rear connector to front of vehicle and through firewall); RED = power wire from brake control unit; BLUE = trailer brake wire from brake control unit; GREEN = wire from brake control unit to brake switch.
Connect the WHITE ground wire to the frame of the vehicle. This provides the ground connection for the system.
Run the BLUE/BLACK 2-strand wire along the frame rail to the front of the vehicle, avoiding the exhaust, axles, and brake cables. Secure it with the plastic tie straps supplied. Then run it up the firewall, avoiding the steering mechanism, and secure it with ties.
Split the BLUE/BLACK 2-strand wire down the middle. Connect the RED (power) wire of the brake control unit to the BLACK wire using a Scotch lock. Connect the BLUE (trailer brake) wire of the brake control unit to the BLUE wire using a Scotch lock. Connect the WHITE wire of the brake control unit to the ground on the vehicle body. Connect the GREEN wire of the brake control unit to the inactive side of the brake switch.
Run a heavy gauge wire from the battery or equivalent power source to the battery side of either circuit breaker. Attach a #10 G-ring connector to one end of the wire. Then split a wire off this main wire to the 20 amp breaker using a Scotch lock and attach a #10 G-ring connector to the end of this wire. Alternatively, you can run a jumper between the two breakers.
The circuit breakers protect the electrical system. The 40 amp breaker is connected to the auxiliary side of the wire going to the rear connector. The 20 amp breaker is connected to the auxiliary side of the wire going through the firewall to the brake control unit.
The heavy duty flasher is a replacement turn signal flasher. If your turn signals blink too fast after installation, replace your vehicle's original turn signal flasher with the one supplied in the kit.
After attaching the round connector with self-tapping screws, test the connector for: running lights, brake lights, turn signals, and hot wire (power). Note that the brake control output cannot be tested unless a trailer is connected to the connector.
If the turn signals are blinking too fast after installation, replace the turn signal flasher with the heavy duty flasher supplied in the BRAKE mate kit.
After drilling a hole through the firewall to run the BLUE/BLACK wire into the cab, seal the hole with a rubber grommet or silicone to prevent water and debris from entering the vehicle.
When running the BLUE/BLACK 2-strand wire along the frame rail and up the firewall, avoid the exhaust, axles, brake cables, and steering mechanism. These components can damage the wire or be damaged by it. Secure the wire with the supplied plastic tie straps.
Your vehicle must have a 4-pole flat connector. Contact Cequent Towing Products at (888) 521-0510 or check a fitment database to confirm compatibility with your specific make, model, and year.
The kit includes a prewired connector, brake control unit, 20 amp and 40 amp circuit breakers, 5 #10 G-ring connectors, 2 3/8" G-ring connectors, 5 Scotch locks, 8 self-tapping screws, 6 wire tie straps, and a heavy duty flasher.
You may need to drill a hole through the firewall to run the brake wire into the cab if an existing hole is not available. The hole must be sealed with a rubber grommet or silicone.
Connect WHITE (ground) to frame, RED (power) to BLACK wire, BLUE (trailer brake) to BLUE wire, GREEN to brake switch, and run BLUE/BLACK from rear connector through firewall to brake control unit.
Test for running lights, brake lights, turn signals, and hot wire (power). Brake control output cannot be tested without a trailer connected. If turn signals blink too fast, replace the flasher with the one supplied.
Avoid routing the BLUE/BLACK wire near the exhaust, axles, brake cables, or steering mechanism. Secure all wires with the supplied plastic tie straps.





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