Trailer brake controller - installing Factory OEM Toyota or Aftermarket

[jdgreen]

My 4R will come without the Tow Tech package and I need a trailer brake controller. I've asked the dealership sales, parts, and service departments as well as Toyota Customer Service if the Toyota brake controller can be installed post-delivery. Nobody seems to know.

Assuming that there's a plug & play receptacle under the dash, I assume that an aftermarket controller (i.e. Tekonsha) might work although the 4R owner's manual advises against it. The Curt Echo is a wireless controller that simply plugs into the 7-pin connector next to the trailer hitch and eTrailer states that it's "confirmed to fit 2025 4Runner". However, it mounts in a rather precarious position.

Any thoughts on non-OEM controllers?

 

[Gastan]

If the 2025 4Runner 6th gen is like the 2024-2025 Tacoma 4th gen, then unfortunately if your 4Runner doesn't come with Tow Tech Package factory installed, then it won't have a wiring harness to connect the OEM Toyota controller under the dash. And owners are finding it very difficult to retrofit install it. Even Toyota dealerships can't find a way to add the OEM brake controller

We won't know for sure until 6th gen 4Runner owners start pulling panels under the dash to confirm. But I suspect it'll be the same situation as the Tacoma.

AFTERMARKET

I've seen Tacoma owners installing Redarc trailer brake controller though, so there's aftermarket solutions at least. I've attached a couple of great installation guides for Redarc Electric Brake Controller posted by Tacoma owners:

Aftermarket Trailer Brake Install Guide #1
https://www.4runner6g.com/forum/att...tallation-for-2025-4runner-6th-gen-docx.7119/

Aftermarket Trailer Brake Install Guide #2
https://www.4runner6g.com/forum/att...instructrions-2025-4runner-6th-gen-docx.7120/

Here's what Redarc brake controller switch looks like installed in blank dash position.

Hope that helps!

 

[jdgreen]

I appreciate those suggestions. I checked eTrailer; REDARC is reasonably priced and looks like a suitable unit. eTrailer shows two REDARC units, one more suitable for off-road use. They also show a Tekonsha wireless unit; higher cost and less convenient installation.

Is it safe to assume that the 4R has a plug and play receptacle for brake controller under the dash?