Do Honda Ridgelines have brake controllers?
In short: Honda Ridgelines typically do not come with a factory-installed trailer brake controller. If you tow a trailer with electric brakes, you’ll usually rely on an aftermarket brake controller or a dealer-installed accessory, with the Tow Package providing a 7‑pin trailer wiring harness to power the trailer’s brakes but not the controller itself.
Factory vs aftermarket brake control on the Ridgeline
Understanding how braking for a trailer is managed on a Ridgeline helps clarify what you’ll need to tow safely. The vehicle does not include a built-in brake control module in most configurations, and the available towing hardware focuses on wiring and hitch support rather than an integrated controller.
- The Ridgeline’s Tow Package typically adds a 7‑pin trailer wiring harness, connecting the vehicle’s electrical system to the trailer’s braking and lighting systems. This harness powers the trailer brakes but does not include a brake controller on its own.
- Most models do not feature a factory-installed, integrated trailer brake controller as part of standard equipment or optional packages.
- In some model years, Honda offered an optional Trailer Brake Controller accessory through dealers or in certain markets; availability varied by year and region.
For most owners, towing with electric brakes means installing an aftermarket brake controller (or confirming the availability of the Honda accessory if your vehicle’s year and region support it). An aftermarket controller provides the braking signal to the trailer in a controlled, proportional or time-delayed manner, depending on the unit.
What to consider if you plan to tow with electric brakes
Before deciding on a controller, consider the practical implications for your Ridgeline and trailer setup. The following points help guide your choice and ensure safe operation on the road.
- Vehicle compatibility: Ensure your Ridgeline has the Tow Package’s 7‑pin harness and that you select a controller compatible with 12‑volt systems and your trailer’s braking needs.
- Controller type: Proportional controllers adjust braking output based on your vehicle’s deceleration, which many find smoother for long tows. Time-delayed controllers are usually cheaper but may cause jerky stops on some trailers.
- Installation considerations: Wiring, dash mounting, and calibration are important. If you’re not comfortable with vehicle wiring, have a professional install the unit to avoid miswiring or electrical faults.
Bottom line: while the Ridgeline is capable for towing, it relies on an external brake controller (factory accessory in some cases or aftermarket) to manage trailer brakes. Always follow the trailer manufacturer’s braking requirements and local regulations.
Honda’s stance and model-year variations
Honda’s official materials generally indicate that Ridgelines do not include a built-in brake controller as standard equipment. The Tow Package is designed to provide the trailer connection and towing hardware—such as the 7‑pin harness—rather than a controller. Availability of an optional Trailer Brake Controller accessory has varied by model year and market, so checking with a local Honda dealer for your exact vehicle is recommended.
Bottom line for Ridgeline owners
Do not assume your Ridgeline includes a trailer brake controller. If you tow trailers with electric brakes, plan to add an aftermarket controller or confirm the availability of the Honda accessory for your specific year and region.
Summary: Honda Ridgelines are equipped to tow with a trailer’s electric brakes via a 7‑pin harness, but a factory-installed brake controller is not common. Most owners use an aftermarket controller, or an optional dealer accessory when available, depending on model year and market. Verify your truck’s configuration with a dealer and review your trailer’s braking requirements before towing.
