I chose to go with Redarc as well. Many people on these forums talk about Tekonsha to my dismay. Redarc seems much more intuitive. Besides, why would I want to install a big box of wires in my nice new car? Finally, the Ascent has airbags in the knee bolsters. If a brake controller is mounted on the bottom, an accident could do a lot of damage to my bottom half.
So, although more expensive, in my opinion, Redarc offers a more professional and safer finished product.
Here’s how I installed mine.
1) Remove the accessory switch panel. It is held in place by two clips on each side. They are easily released by hand by lifting up through the hole in the fuse panel.
2) Remove a key blank from the panel. The lower keys have an angle to them that makes them awkward. There is a locking tab on the top and bottom of each key blank.
3) Carefully trim off the excess material inside the hollow key. I used an oscillating multi-tool and a hobby knife to do the finishing work.
4) Make sure you cut the Redarc module in the bottom corner. (See photo)
5) Drill your holes for the Redarc module. I started with a very small pilot and slowly grew. The larger hole had to be slightly larger than the spec to accommodate the slight angle the key blank has.
6) Install the key blank back into the panel before installing Redarc. It will not return with Redarc installed.
7) Put it all together.
8) Redarc Main Box: I attacked this on an existing chain link electrical box. Just make sure it’s sturdy and won’t shift.
9) Wiring: Red=Red Blue=Blue White=White Black=Black
Hope this helps!
