Wiring Harness Fit and Recommendation for 2014 Mazda CX-5 Touring?

Updated 03/16/2016 | Published 03/14/2016

Question:

I have a 2014 Mazda CX-5 Touring and I think it has standard bulbs, not LEDs, but when I was talking to my dad about his Audi, he said his has regular bulbs, but uses pulse width modulation for the running/brake lights as an LED setup would, so he needed an LED kit. Do you know if this is the case for Mazdas, and how do I tell which kit I need? Thanks!

asked by: Ben

Expert Reply:

For your 2014 Mazda CX-5 Touring, I recommend the Tow Ready T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118563. This wiring harness is confirmed to work for CX-5s with or without LED taillights and will work well with your vehicle's wiring system. I spoke with my contact at Tow Ready and he confirmed that your CX-5 does not have pulse width modulation.

Since the # 118563 wiring harness has a powered converter, it will use the vehicle battery to power the trailer's lights. Non-powered wiring harnesses, like # C56011 that you referenced, draw power from the vehicle's light circuits to power the trailer's lights, which is why they are not compatible with LED taillights. Powered wiring harnesses are also great for vehicles with incandescent taillights since they reduce the draw on the vehicle's wiring system.

I have attached an installation video of the Tow Ready # 118563 harness on a 2014 CX-5 for you.

expert reply by: Victoria B