Where to Access 12V Power for Installing Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness C56330

Updated 08/31/2016 | Published 08/30/2016

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

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$69.85

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

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$37.41

Question:

Hi, when using the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector - C56154, can you tap into the + wire of the 12V cigarette lighter like socket in the rear cargo area, for power to the module?

asked by: Colin L

Expert Reply:

Powered 4-pole harnesses like the Curt # C56330 are designed for a direct 12V connection to the vehicle battery in order to isolate the car's own internal wiring from any potential fault conditions on the trailer. Although it seems simple and is tempting to consider using the auxiliary 12V power outlet in a car, those outlets usually cannot deliver the same amount of current that a direct battery connection can. Alternate installation would likely void the warranty.

Vehicles like your 2014 Dodge Journey that have efficient LED lights use lighter gauge wiring than cars that use standard incandescent lights. The risk of overloading this light wiring is the reason that Curt and others recommend powered harnesses. The Journeys that have incandescent lights can use a non-powered passive harness # C56109 (that does not need a 12V power connection) because they have heavier wiring.

You can refer to the linked video and article for help in the installation, most of which is plugging together connectors at the car's taillights.

expert reply by: Adam R