Trailer brake controller and other trailering questions

[edj_03]

Has anyone installed a trailer brake controller/can recommend for 2016 CX-5 Touring? Also, anyone using a hitch stabilizer? Tried looking through here, but could not find answers.

I'm actually a bit confused what brand to use and how to approach the install, or if either or both are required for my intended use? My goal is to tow approx. 1,800 trailer including cargo, short trips, less than 20 miles. I have a steep driveway and some Hills during towing, and just want to be safe.

Any help or suggestions appreciated.

 

[Chris_Top_Her]

You can use the curt class 2 hitch (bigger opening) or the oem hitch. A lot is available on etrailer.com.

These firestone ride rites are a good idea for anyone who is towing regularly. less stress on the suspension and brakes. https://www.etrailer.com/Suspension Enhancement/Mazda/CX-5/0/F4178.html?vehicleid=0 you slide it into the spring and inflate it with a bike pump or and electric.
hitch https://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Hitch/Mazda/CX-5/2016/C12080.html?vehicleid=2016308720

plugs, easy to install https://www.etrailer.com/Custom-Fit-Vehicle-Wiring/Mazda/CX-5/2016/C56011.html?vehicleid=20161174261
brake controllers, which should be good to go with the curt wiring. https://www.etrailer.com/bc-2015_Mazda_CX-5.htm

as far as sway control, some of those hitches say not to use sway control on them.

 

[edj_03]

You can use the curt class 2 hitch (bigger opening) or the oem hitch. A lot is available on etrailer.com.

These firestone ride rites are a good idea for anyone who is towing regularly. less stress on the suspension and brakes. https://www.etrailer.com/Suspension Enhancement/Mazda/CX-5/0/F4178.html?vehicleid=0 you slide it into the spring and inflate it with a bike pump or and electric.
hitch https://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Hitch/Mazda/CX-5/2016/C12080.html?vehicleid=2016308720

plugs, easy to install https://www.etrailer.com/Custom-Fit-Vehicle-Wiring/Mazda/CX-5/2016/C56011.html?vehicleid=20161174261
brake controllers, which should be good to go with the curt wiring. https://www.etrailer.com/bc-2015_Mazda_CX-5.htm

as far as sway control, some of those hitches say not to use sway control on them.

Thanks for the quick response... I should have prefaced that I've already had the hitch and wiring harness installed by the dealer. My question was regarding the controller, which is where my confusion lies.

During my research, I noticed some different wiring controller wiring options, some indicate a 7 wire connector, than came across a 4 and 7 wire combo plug. Does using a brake controller require installing a 7 wire connector, or is this more of an option install based on vehicle load and trailer combo?

On the 2016 CX-5 Touring, non-technical package, is there additional factory harnesses available, or do I have to do a non-standard wiring install? If the latter, any suggestions for wiring (diagrams, suggested fuse block connections, etc.)? I can work my way around wiring tools and diagrams, but have found little for the 2016 model year, and am concerned with using schematics and diagrams from older model years.

Finally, regarding the Firestone suspension bags, do these stay on vehicle year-round?

Again, thanks for your feedback.

 

[CX5-SO]

When you say the harness has already been installed, do you mean a 4 pin connector that is already at the rear? If so, that connector will run your lights and signals only on a no brakes installed trailer. If you add a brake controller, a 12v lead will have to run from your battery to the controller and then to the rear to power the brakes. You can get an adapter to mount back there that will accept your 4 pin connector plus the power lead for the brakes. The trailer you get will determine the connector you will need for the CX-5. The trailer will come pre-installed with either a 6 or 7 pin plug.
As far as the controller itself, I have had the best service and ease of use with Tekonsha.

 

[edj_03]

When you say the harness has already been installed, do you mean a 4 pin connector that is already at the rear? If so, that connector will run your lights and signals only on a no brakes installed trailer. If you add a brake controller, a 12v lead will have to run from your battery to the controller and then to the rear to power the brakes. You can get an adapter to mount back there that will accept your 4 pin connector plus the power lead for the brakes. The trailer you get will determine the connector you will need for the CX-5. The trailer will come pre-installed with either a 6 or 7 pin plug.
As far as the controller itself, I have had the best service and ease of use with Tekonsha.

That's what I was trying to get clarification on... Yes, I had the 4 pin connector installed right after purchase of car. When I read through the manual, I noticed the addition of brake controller for towing over 1,000 lbs., which sent me looking for what would be appropriate.

I haven't picked up a trailer yet, but will be doing so probably in the spring, unless I can find a killer deal before then. As for 6 or 7 pin connector, do you happen to know why the difference/preferred one? I was considering installing a combo 4 and 7 pin plug, but, based on you comment, am thinking it would be better to just wait until I pick up the trailer.

Thanks, again for clearing up this for me.

 

[CX5-SO]

Here is a wiki that explains all the common plugs used. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trailer_connectors_in_North_America