I have a 2024 Expedition Max XLT 4x4 that has a trailer package with the factory 7-way trailer plug. I bought the Ford Integrated Trailer brake switch that replaces the coin tray in the dash thinking this was nearly plug and play. I pulled the coin tray and there was no wire. I took it to the dealer to have them install it and they confirmed there is no wire and offered no solution. I know these vehicles come with it as I previously had a 2019 Platinum with it installed. My question for the group is how to get this installed? Do I just need a pigtail and then take it to the dealer to flash it to enable the module? That is what I thought I needed, however I have seen other things that indicate that I need another component installed under the dash?

 

I don't recall exactly, but there likely is a module that needs to be installed under the dash that should have the pigtail for the brake controller switch. The harness for that module should be there already, somewhere.

Ford (and all OEMs) have changed some things in the last few years, that module was once, if I recall, part of another module, so the harness for the switch was there and you just had to activate it. Now, it requires the extra module (I don't know this for certain, but that module probably ALSO controls the Pro Backup Assist system) AND the switch, which both must be installed before you activate them.

It's why I ALWAYS add on the brake controller to any vehicle I order, and won't buy one without it.

That said, unless it says it specifically on the build sheet/window sticker that you have the trailering package, just having a receiver and the 7-way round doesn't mean you got a 'trailering package,' the hitch and plug are basically standard now on larger SUVs and pickups. When we bought my wife's '24 Expedition, we had the dealer search for one that had the brake controller, which forces the Pro Backup Assist as well, in the Trailer Tow Package. If you don't have those two things, it wasn't built with the trailer package. It can always be added but for the price of the package, even if you never use the Pro Backup system, it's worth it because it's cheaper to buy it ON the vehicle already than to install it after the fact.