Trailer Hitch and Wiring for 2016 Honda HR-V and Does Install Void Warranty

Published 12/18/2017

Question:

I have a 2016 Honda HRV and I purchased one of your trailer hitches. I realize that I will also need to set up the electrical as I will be towing a very small trailer. The first question I have is if doing any of these installations will void any car warranties. I read that the HRV is not supposed to tow anything. Second, it looks like installing the electrical for product 118741 is quite simple. You have a video for the 2017 Honda CRV. Will this product work for the 2016 HRV? The products designated for the HRV say they also require you to run a wire up to the car battery. I would rather not do this. For the HRV will I need to run a wire to the car battery? I am hoping I will not have to. Thanks

asked by: Dusty K

Expert Reply:

When you install an aftermarket part on your vehicle like a trailer hitch # 306-X7322 on your 2016 Honda HR-V in this case, you are protected by the Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act. This act states, in part, that unless the installation and the part caused a problem then the warranty cannot be voided.

For trailer wiring you then would want the part # 118673. Not all vehicles can handle the additional amperage draw of the trailer taillights on the vehicle taillight circuits. Those vehicles need setup that draws power from the battery. Some vehicles have higher rated circuits that can handle this, and others need to have the power drawn straight from the battery to protect the taillight circuits.

expert reply by: Jameson C