Looking for recommendation for trailer brake controller

[EricGoleta]

I have a 25 Hybrid off road premium that has the towing package but I didn't realize that it does not have electronic brake controller. I'm looking for suggestions for one. I see the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite has good reviews. I tried to find a DIY videos but don't see any for 6th gens. Reading the install instructions from Google it seems pretty straight forward.

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[6Gen4RunnerOwner]

I have a 25 Hybrid off road premium that has the towing package but I didn't realize that it does not have electronic brake controller. I'm looking for suggestions for one. I see the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite has good reviews. I tried to find a DIY videos but don't see any for 6th gens. Reading the install instructions from Google it seems pretty straight forward.

I have the ORP with trailer package & back up centering. My brake controller system is on the dash left of the HVAC temp control knob. In the photo you can see a "+" sign. That's the controller half hidden.

 

[EricGoleta]

My ORP didn't come with the Toyota Tech trailer package, I have the basic tow package. I'm looking for recommendations for an after market controller. thanks

 

[6Gen4RunnerOwner]

My ORP didn't come with the Toyota Tech trailer package, I have the basic tow package. I'm looking for recommendations for an after market controller. thanks

Check with Toyota Parts Department. They may have a "retro fix" controller part number..

 

[EricGoleta]

I Googled it it says there isn't a Toyota part kit available. So I'm looking at others. REDARC has good reviews. But there are others.

 

[6Gen4RunnerOwner]

I Googled it it says there isn't a Toyota part kit available. So I'm looking at others. REDARC has good reviews. But there are others.

Toyota Parts::

 

[EricGoleta]

Wow, Thank you so much! It shows that AI searches in Google aren't always accurate.

 

[EricGoleta]

I used Google to find what it says as the full list of parts needed:
Required Toyota Genuine Parts
Part NamePart NumberPurposeBrake Control Relay89547-04031Completes the high-current circuit between the battery and the 7-way trailer plug.Trailer Brake Control Switch84391-AK010The user interface (the +/- buttons and manual override slide) that mounts in your dashboard.Brake Control ECU89547-0C012The "brain" of the system that processes braking signals and communicates with the vehicle's safety systems. Total cost with discount is $870.79.

Looking at the REDARC p/n CIKTP-NA-012 Tow-Pro Trail Kit at $320 and
Tow-Pro Toyota square switch blanks TPSI-011 for $13.

I Googled the question: If I install the factory kit above, is the Toyota tow tech software automatically activated?

Verification Checklist
Before you commit to the OEM parts:

• Plug Check: Locate that white connector under the dash. Ensure it has at least four wires going into it.
• Fuse Box Check: Open your interior fuse box and confirm the BRK CTRL slot is wired (has metal pins inside) to receive the relay.
• The "REDARC" Reality: If you find that the OEM software doesn't pop up after installation, it is almost always due to a missing physical wire in the harness rather than a software lock. This is why many 2025 owners are opting for the REDARC Tow-Pro Elite. It provides the same proportional braking performance without relying on the Toyota-specific digital display integration.

Summary: If the hardware is connected correctly to a functional factory harness, the software will activate itself. If it doesn't, it’s a sign of a missing wire in the loom rather than a need for a dealer software update.

Looks like the REDARC is a better for flexibility in on and off road camping.

 

[gvan1998]

Correct me if im wrong, i was told that you cant simply add a OEM switch, its tied into the ecu.

 

[EricGoleta]

Google says you need all 3 part numbers; maybe it is wrong?

Purpose Brake Control Relay 89547-04031 Completes the high-current circuit between the battery and the 7-way trailer plug.
Trailer Brake Control Switch 84391-AK010The user interface (the +/- buttons and manual override slide) that mounts in your dashboard.
Brake Control ECU 89547-0C012The "brain" of the system that processes braking signals and communicates with the vehicle's safety systems.
Total cost with discount is $870.79.

 

[gvan1998]

Can someone confirm?

 

[EricGoleta]

The REDARC system is much cheaper and looks to be better for off-road trailering. So I'm going to order one of these.

 

[EricGoleta]

These are the part numbers for the kit and the switch insert: CIKTP-NA-012 and TPSI-011

 

[gvan1998]

I found this post from another member here

Toyota responded as follows on our request for confirmation:

"The TRD Off Road Premium was originally evaluated with an integrated trailer brake controller. During development, we determined that delivering this feature required additional sensors, electronic modules, and calibration work beyond what most customers in this segment typically need. Removing the factory controller from this grade allowed us to maintain the TRD Off Road Premium at a price point that aligns with the expectations of the majority of our buyers.

Every 2025 and 2026 4Runner is equipped with a factory Toyota trailer brake controller connection point. This integrated plug enables seamless installation of any aftermarket controller without cutting or modifying the vehicle’s wiring. The vehicle is fully pre wired for a wide range of brake controller solutions, and towing capability remains identical to that of the TRD Pro and Trailhunter models.

A factory installed braking system is not possible at this time, as it would require reprogramming of the vehicle’s core control modules, installation of additional sensors, and extensive integration with the truck’s onboard electronics."

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