Trailer Wiring Harness Options for a 2011 Kia Sorento

Question:

Im not sure if my kia came with the towing package. Something in the front by the engine says trailer and there is a second radiator there

asked by: John D

Expert Reply:

There are trailer wiring harness for 3 different configurations of the 2011 Kia Sorento, V6 models that do not have the tow package, V6 models that do have the tow package, and 4 cylinder models.

If you have a V6, you could have a tow package. What you can do is have a dealership run the VIN number of the vehicle and they can tell you what options it has. Some vehicles will have the wiring for the tow package present to accept the wiring harness, but it will not be functional. This indicates that the vehicle does not have the factory tow package.

The item that says trailer, if located in the power distribution box, could be the electronics (fuses or relays) associated with tow package wiring or another component related to towing. The part you see that looks like another radiator is probably a supplemental transmission or engine oil cooler. On many vehicles, this is part of a tow package.

However, the definitive way to know is to have the dealer run the VIN number. If they determine you have the tow package, use wiring harness # 118541 that you have referenced. If you have the V6 model but no tow package, or a 4 cylinder model, use # 118506. I have included links to the installation instructions for each harness.

expert reply by: Michael H