Trailer Wiring Harness Recommendation for 2012 Ford Explorer
Updated 11/05/2015 | Published 11/04/2015
Question:
Hi, i have a 2012 XLT without the tow package. However, i am installing the factory hitch so it will look just like like the explorers that come with the tow package. I just need to know what wiring harness i need to get the same functionality and look as that of an explorer with the factory tow package. Thank you.
asked by: Mike L
Expert Reply:
Based on my research, the Explorers with a factory tow package came out of the factory with either a 7-way trailer connector or a 4-way connector. If you want a 4-way connector, I recommend using the Tow Ready T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118540. I have attached an installation video of this wiring harness on a 2012 Explorer.
To determine if you can use the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118272 with a 7-way connector, that you referenced, you will want to find the factory wiring connector. It is located on the passenger's side of the vehicle, next to the muffler. I have attached a photo showing what the connector looks like for you.
Once you've found the connector, you will want to separate the two parts of the connector to test the pins of the connector with a circuit tester, like # PTW2993. If the pins have power to them, you will have no problems using the # 118272 trailer wiring harness. If some of the pins do not have power, you can check fuses and relays to see if any need to be added to provide power.
For example, the trailer brake control module requires a fuse in location 3 of the Power Distribution Box of the 2012 Ford Explorer. Other fuses or relays to check for are the trailer tow battery charge relay in location 12, the trailer tow battery charge in location 24, the trailer right turn/stop lamps relay in 37, the trailer back up relay in 38, the trailer left stop/turn lamps relay in 53, trailer back up lamps fuse in 60, trailer stop/turn lamps fuse in 63, trailer park lamps relay in 77, trailer park lamps fuse in 84, and trailer battery charge relays in 93. You can double check the locations of fuses and relays related to towing a trailer in your owner's manual.
Since the trailer connector in the # 118272 will need to be wired to the harness, I have linked a help article on trailer wiring for you.
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: Mounting Bracket 4-Pole Flat
- Shop: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Shop: etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Video: Mounting Bracket 4-Pole Flat: The Breakdown
- Shop: Curt Powered Tail Light Converter with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Video: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness Review C56040
- Shop: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Video: Clean Up Your Trailer Wiring
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Video: Curt Mounting Bracket for 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector Review
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Q&A: Comparing the Curt Hitch C13416 and EcoHitch Hitch 306-X7396 for a 2019 Toyota RAV4
- Shop: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Search Results: trailer hitch ball mount
- Video: Curt Powered Tail Light Converter Installation - 2023 Kia Telluride
- Search Results: trailer jack
- Shop: Gooseneck Hitch
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
on Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
