Adding a 7-Way Trailer Connector to a 2012 Nissan Xterra with 4-Way

Updated 08/31/2015 | Published 08/30/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Replacement Wiring Harness for Tow Ready Nissan Vehicle Wiring Harness

(108)

$38.01

Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(454)

$59.72

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

(61)

$13.33

Question:

On most 7 ways, you have the wires for brakes and lights plus two extra wires, 1 is normaly the yellow assessor he or reverse light wire, and a 12v hot wire. As my 2012 Nissan Xterra did not come with a 7 way, but does have the 4 way plug, as well as the 2 way plug that would allow this 7 way to be used. Are those two wires still live??? Is the yellow wire/pole on the 7 way connected to the reverse lights, so if my trailer has reverse lights they will light up when I am in reverse? And is the 12v hot wire in use, so that my trailer can make use of the 12v hot wire? Its used for the winch Thanks

asked by: Gary

Expert Reply:

If your 2012 Nissan Xterra came with a factory 4-Way trailer connector, then it might not have all of the relays needed for a fully functional 7-Way. But if you installed an aftermarket harness such as # C56225 then the relays are all present and you would just need # 118267 for a fully functional 7-Way.

The center pin on the 7-Way would be for reverse lights or a reverse electric lockout out on a surge coupler. The 12-volt pin would also be active. Depending on the winch though it may not be rated high enough to power your winch properly. I have included a link to a help article on how to wire an electric winch that should help as well.

If you want to test the wires in that second connector under your Xterra you could use circuit tester # PTW2993. If the 12-volt relay is in place, then one of the 2 pins should have power all the time. The reverse circuit would be harder to test but you would need to chock the wheels, apply the emergency brakes, have someone sit in the vehicle with their foot on the brake pedal and then shift into reverse while you test.

expert reply by: Michael H