Trailer Wiring Harness for a 2013 Ford Explorer without Factory Tow Package

Updated 03/29/2016 | Published 03/26/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 7-Way Trailer Connector

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$62.87

ZCI Circuit Protected Vehicle Wiring Harness w/ 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector and Installation Kit

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Hook Probe Circuit Tester

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Question:

On 2013 explorer with out tow package it had a plug above passenger side muffler. These adapters are a T, but I dont have anything to plug the otherwise of the T into. Why is that and will this still work on my vehicle?

asked by: Craig

Expert Reply:

I checked with Tow Ready and wiring harness # C56278 is listed as a fit for all styles of the 2013 Ford Explorer including ones that do not have the factory tow package. The connector you found is half of what would be needed to plug into this harness. It is possible that the other connector that would normally plug into the one you found is more hidden.

You can use a circuit tester such as # PTW2993 to test the connector you found to see if it has power when some light functions are on (running lights, turn signals, and brake lights). If there is no power, then you would have to use a different harness such as # 119250KIT.

If there is power, then the C56278 harness should still work even though there is only the one connector, but I cannot verify this.

expert reply by: Michael H