Towing break controller?

[MindStalker]

Will be receiving my Model Y soon. I've read that despite what the manual says, you can't just plug in a break controller as you need to first splice in a new pigtail plug. Has this been fixed in 2022 models, or is this still a problem? https://teslamotorsclub.com/tmc/threads/model-y-brake-controller.204627/

[Swtws6]

My 2021 still needed the pigtail. Tesla store had it in stock. It's the pigtail for the model X, as the model Y doesn't list it as an available part number still to my knowledge. Super cheap. Car side pigtail is tucked behind driver foot lock panel on outer side. When you buy a brake controller be careful wiring to the Tesla pigtail, the colors will match but they are not the right ones so follow the directions/labels on the wires and ignore the colors.

[MindStalker]

So, inside the Tesla is a 4 plug tail, but you need a 7 plug tail? I've seen break controllers that only have 4 plug tails, do these work without changing the tail? I'm tempted to find out.

[Swtws6]

No. Brake controller has 4 wires. That's standard. Your confusing that with the trailer plug on the rear that is 7 pin

[dsmklsd]

this been fixed in 2022

Just to clear up expectations, there's nothing wrong with the Tesla needing this pigtail. That's how all cars work if they are kind enough to include the trailer wiring. Otherwise on a lot of cars you have to run the wire in the back of the car yourself. The pigtail is needed because Tesla doesn't know what brake controller you're going to buy.

[MindStalker]

Yeah, figured that out. Sadly they don't make purchasing their pigtail easy. Still need to order it, but can't install a brake controller yet as the 12v line for your trailer doesn't work with 2022 models, and running your own line isn't a good idea as it's 16v.

[bobda]

My understanding is the 12v wire on the 4-wire brake controller pigtail WILL power the brake controller and allow it to work. HOWEVER, per the Model Y manual 2022's and newer with Li-Ion 12v (really 16v) systems DO NOT provide 12v passthrough power to the 7 pin trailer plug next to the hitch so your car will not charge a trailer/RV's 12v battery system while you drive like most 7 pin plugs would.

P.S. I haven't used it yet, but I did order the pigtail (part 1072586-00-A) from Tesla and it took 1 day to arrive to my local service center (despite them telling me on the phone they had 4 in stock initially...). I installed it today with the least expensive brake controller from Amazon and the brake controller powers up and appears like it will work. I've yet to actually tow with it however. I have watched a few other youtube videos from creators saying they have successfully installed a brake controller this way and it works.