Why Does Curt Wiring for a 2014 Nissan Rogue Have to Run to Vehicle Battery

Published 07/22/2016

Question:

Instead of running a power lead all the way to the battery, could I not just extend a combined hot and ground lead, install a 12volt accessory plug on the end of it and plug it into the 12v accessory outlet in the back of the car? My trailer lights are LED, so they dont draw much power. It would seem simpler than having to run a lead up front and connect directly to the battery. When Im not using the car for towing, I could just unplug it and tuck the cord under the panels in the floor. Thanks very much.

asked by: John F

Expert Reply:

The reason you want to run the power wire all the way up to battery is so that you bypass all of the delicate wiring of your vehicle. The power wire is required on trailer wiring harnesses for some vehicles because the electrical system on those vehicles cannot handle the amperage draw associated with trailer lights.

If you ran the wire to a 12 volt accessory circuit this would defeat the purpose of that and would void the warranty of the harness plus potentially damage your vehicle wiring.

I attached a help article on routing the power wire for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C