Troubleshooting The Quick Connections On The 2017 Ford Explorer And The Tekonsha Harness # 118272

Updated 05/13/2025 | Published 04/06/2017

Question:

I bought this part with my Draw titer Hitch. The Website said it was a perfect fit. The tabs do not line up with what is on my vehicle. Any recommendations?

asked by: Mike A

Expert Reply:

This Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness for Factory Tow Package - 7-Way Trailer Connector # 118272 harness is designed to be used with vehicles that already have a factory tow package. If you don't have that factory tow package, it may not fit. If you don't have the tow package, I recommend you use the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # 118540. If you do have the factory tow package, it should install to the connection located beneath the vehicle behind the rear tire on the passenger's side. Pins like this can easily get bent, so check your connections for bent pins prior to install.

expert reply by: Jason S

Eric S.

7/21/2020

Great fit and easy install. One question - just installed and I did not get the satisfying click on the large white wire on the 7 pin side. It also did not seem as far as other pins. Should I redo or is that the way it is. Also, Am i supposed to get a click when wiring harness is inserted into 7 pin exterior part. Slid into place but no noise.

Chris R.

7/27/2020

If the connections are secure (can you give them a firm tug without them coming loose?) then I think you're just fine.

Cris

5/3/2025

You didn't answer the question. I have the same problem. The factory connector at the car is different of all trailers harness. On my case there's only 1 connector and in this case not the T one. Besides that, the only female connector at the car does not accept the regular one and I can't find the same one that will fit in

Robin H.

5/13/2025

@Cris is this a 2017 Ford Explorer? If you don't have any factory connectors that match those wiring harnesses the only option would be the # HM40285 which plugs into the connection points behind the tail lights. All of the other wiring harness options use that T-connector for the factory plug. Are you sure you don't have two connectors? Even if you do, a wiring harness like the # C56172 or # C56306 only connects to the black factory connector. The gray connector is not used.