Could Trailer Wiring for 2020 Toyota RAV4 Be Used without Connecting Power Wire

Published 03/31/2020

Question:

If you are running a trailer without a battery and are just running utility trailers do you need to hook the wire to the battery or can you just run the trailer lights and brake lights off the cars power?

asked by: Holden P

Expert Reply:

If you don't connect the power wire of the Curt harness part # C56434 it will not function. It needs that power wire connected for the circuits to be active.

Not all vehicles can handle the additional amperage draw of the trailer taillights on the vehicle taillight circuits. Those vehicles need a 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. This also helps prevent a trailer wiring short from damaging the vehicle wiring as well.

I attached an install video for this kit on a similar RAV4 for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C