Does a Subaru Ascent need a brake controller?

Does a Subaru Ascent need a brake controller?
Yes, a Subaru Ascent may need a brake controller for towing a trailer with electric brakes. The 2019 Subaru Ascent can be fitted with a brake controller, such as the Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller part # TK90160, using the Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter for Electric Brake Controllers part # 3062-P. This plug is located underneath the dash and left of the steering column, taped to another harness near the emergency brake pedal.
If the Subaru Ascent does not come with a brake controller, it may need to be installed separately. Some users have reported that the base model Ascent does not come with a brake controller plug, and it needs to be installed separately. Additionally, it has been mentioned that all Premium and higher trimmed Ascents come pre-wired for a brake controller if the factory hitch is used, so no need to run wiring, just an adapter to plug into the brake controller.
In summary, while the Subaru Ascent may not come with a brake controller by default, it can be fitted with one using the appropriate wiring adapter and brake controller.
If you have any further questions, feel free to ask!

Is a brake controller necessary?

Electric trailer brakes do not work without a brake controller. If your trailer is equipped with electric brakes, you will need a brake controller to tow. However, some trailers are equipped with surge brakes. These are a hydraulic braking system that uses the trailer’s own weight and momentum to actuate the brakes.

Does the Subaru Ascent have a tow package?

The new Subaru Ascent is rated for up to 277 lb-ft of torque, and when combined with an available accessory Class III trailer hitch receiver, this large crossover SUV is capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds, which is the most of any Subaru vehicle ever.

Do you need a brake controller if you have a tow package?

If you are towing a marine trailer for a boat, jet skis, etc. the answer is NO. Marine trailers almost always have passive surge brakes that do not require a brake controller. If you are towing a utility trailer, the answer is NO.

What happens if I dont have a brake controller?

If you don’t have a controller (which includes a power relay to operate the brakes from the low power in the brake light circuit), you won’t be able to activate the brakes, so you won’t safely be able to tow such a heavy trailer.

Do I need a brake controller if I have a 7 pin trailer plug?

If your trailer is equipped with electric brake then you won’t have that function unless you have a brake controller hooked up. Most light trailers don’t need brake at all. If you have a heavy trailer with electric brake then you should hook up a controller otherwise it’s not safe to drive it on the road.

Can a Subaru Ascent really tow 5000 lbs?

The 2024 model of the Subaru Ascent is quite the beloved SUV, and allows for spacious features such as standard all-wheel drive and third-row seating. The 2024 Subaru Ascent can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

How do I know if I need a trailer brake controller?

If you are using electric brakes, you will always need a brake controller. Electric brakes will not be active unless a controller is also in use. Brake controllers are the link between your vehicle brakes and the brakes on your trailer.

Can you drive a travel trailer without a brake controller?

You need a brake controller for safety and to comply with the law in most states. If your trailer has brakes…they must be operational.

Is the Ascent good for towing?

The Ascent has all the power you’ll need to plan bigger and better adventures. After all, the 2024 Subaru Ascent towing capacity maxes out at an impressive 5,000 pounds.

How much can you tow without brake controller?

Every semitrailer, trailer, or separate vehicle attached by a drawbar or coupling to a towing vehicle of at least 4,000 lbs, and every house trailer weighing at least 1,000 lbs, shall be equipped with brake controlled or operated by the driver of the towing vehicle.