Do I Need a Tow Package To Install 4-Way Trailer Wiring on 2012 Chevrolet Equinox

Published 10/20/2011

Products Featured in This Question

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness for Factory Tow Package - 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(320)

$14.68

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

(165)

$68.91

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(880)

$165.21

1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs

(2621)

$11.37

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

(1025)

$32.46

2" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 7,500 lbs

(1358)

$12.62

Curt Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 3/4" Rise, 2" Drop - 10-1/4" Long - 7,500 lbs

(3843)

$25.47

Pin and Clip for 2" and 2-1/2" Hitches - 5/8" Diameter x 3-1/4" Span

(895)

$13.90

Question:

I will be recieving my 2012 EQUINOX soon and want to order a Hitch And wire set, My question is, does my vehicle need to have a tow package from the OEM in order to use the basic flat wire 4 pin connector or do I have to buy the harness that must be wired through to the battery? thanks in advance for your guideance.

asked by: Ron P

Expert Reply:

We do have wiring kits, that will work with your 2012 Chevrolet Equinox, that do not require the vehicle have a tow package. However, the item you selected, Tow Ready T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness, part # 118264, will only fit the 2010-2012 Equinox models that are equipped with the factory tow package.

If your 2012 Chevrolet Equinox will not be equipped with a factory tow package, you could use either the Tow Ready Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring, # 118494, or the Curt Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring, # 56094. However, I would recommend the Tow Ready # 118494, as it is a circuit protected wiring harness, which will protect your vehicles electric system. The Tow Ready system will require you to run a power wire to the battery, but the trailer harness will be directly powered from the battery versus drawing power from the sensitive electrical system.

For a hitch, I would recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch, part # 13591, which is a Class III 2 inch hitch.

To complete your towing setup, you will need the following:
Curt Ball Mount, part # D-4
Hitch Pin and Clip, # PC3
1-7/8 Hitch Ball, part # 19260
2 Hitch Ball, part # 19247

I have linked instructions and a video installation of the Tow Ready Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring, # 118494. Also linked is a video installation of the Hidden Hitch Trailer Hitch, part # 87572, and an FAQ on trailer hitch installation tips.