Trailer Wiring Harness for a 2012 Ford Escape that Does Not have the Factory Tow Package

Question

Question:

I bought this car used and successfully installed the 75751 hitch but was unable to locate the connector for trailer lights. I looked in the area by the bumper and behind both tail lights but no connector was present. Is there another kit I will have to use/ install?

asked by: David

0

Expert Reply:

It sounds like your 2012 Ford Escape did not come with the factory tow package. So instead of using harness 118251 you will need to use # 118551. This is the version for models that did not come with the factory tow package.

I have linked a video showing an example installation. The video is on a different vehicle but the installation process is the same.

expert reply by: Michael H

0

David R.

8/23/2026

I have a 20212 Excape as well with the factory installed 10 pin clip. Is the 118251 the correct harness for this clip?

Jerred H.

8/23/2026

@DavidR The pn 118251 harness has been discontinued but it doesn't fit a 10-pin connector. There isn't one available that does so I'm not sure what the port you've found goes to. The Curt item # C89DQ is the comparable harness to pn 118251 and it fits the 2012 Ford Escape's with the factory tow package. It plugs into a factory connector on the driver side, underneath and slightly behind the rear bumper. The Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness item # C56329 is the only other style of 4-way connector that fits a 2012 Escape. It plugs in behind the rear tail lights directly in line with the factory wiring.

Answer 1

Lets start by making sure you are looking at the right connector. The connector is located between the rear bumper and the rear of the drivers side frame member, as you can see in the photo I have provided. The connector has a protective cover, which…

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Answer 2

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Answer 3

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Answer 4

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

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Answer 5

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Answer 6

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Answer 7

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Answer 8

Yes, it will work. You'll just need to cut the Lance 6-pin connector out and rewire it into the etrailer Trailer Wiring 7-Way Upgrade Kit w/ Junction Box and RV Style Connector item #e99011. Here are the individual functions of that Lance 6-pin:…

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Answer 9

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Answer 10

Since wire color codes are NOT universal, we always recommend wiring by function, rather than wire color. If you look at the Trailer Wiring FAQ article I have linked you to, you can see some diagrams showing the proper way to wire a vehicle and…

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Answer 11

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Answer 12

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Trailer Wiring Harness for a 2012 Ford Escape that Does Not have the Factory Tow Package

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