Is a Special Converter or Adapter Needed to Tow a Trailer with LED Lights

Updated 04/29/2015 | Published 04/28/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Miro-Flex LED Trailer Tail Light - 7 Function - Submersible - 20 Diodes - Square - Red - Driver

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$41.54

7-Way to 4-Way/5-Way Trailer Adapter for Vehicles with Lamp-Out Sensors Towing Trailers with LEDs

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$24.94

7-Way Trailer Adapter for Towing Trailers with LED Lights

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Load Resistor Kit for LED Turn Signals - 50 Watts - 6 Ohm - Qty 2

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$13.01

Question:

Do I need a LED Compatible Taillight Converter for this type of light

asked by: Mike

Expert Reply:

Most aftermarket trailer wiring harnesses are compatible with LED trailer lights but I would need to know the year, make, and model of the vehicle to be sure. Factory tow package wiring usually works fine but German vehicles (Volkswagen, BMW, Audi, Mercedes) can have issues since the LED lights draw far less power than incandescent lights.

I have heard of only a few cases of other vehicle manufacturer tow package wiring being an issue with LED lights. But even if the low power draw causes the lights to not work it is an easy fix by using an adaptor with built-in load resistors or by installing load resistors on the affected circuits in line with the trailer wiring.

We have load resistors in 2- packs like # DI34ZR. For adapters we have a 7-Way to 7-Way, # C57003 or # 20142, and a 7-Way to a 4- or 5-Way, # C35FR.

expert reply by: Michael H