Where to Tap Into the Reverse Light Wire on a 2012 Honda Odyssey for a 5-Way Trailer Connector
Updated 03/28/2013 | Published 07/14/2012
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Question:
I have the 4 prong to 5 prong adapter to convert the 4 prong connection on my hitch to 5 prongs in order to connect my new trailer with surge brakes. The reverse lights are in the rear hatch and it appears the wiring come in through the top of the hatch. Does not seem this will be easy to access and of course I may need to splice in a longer wire. Is there a closer point at which i COULD MAKE THIS CONNECTION? And if so, how do I access it? Honda has been ZERO help thus far. My first issue with Honda, as they suggest surge brakes, but offer no way to connect the damn things !!! New boat come home next week and now this problem to resolve.
asked by: Doug P
Expert Reply:
Normally what you would do is remove the tail light assembly that contains the reverse lights and test the wires for the reverse light circuit and tap in there.
I have also heard that the reverse light circuit can be tapped into at the fuse panel inside the vehicle, under the hood, or in a wiring harness behind the driver side front kick panel. You would need to use the owners manual to determine where the fuse is for the reverse lights. If you tap in there you can use a fuse tap like # F2526. You would need a long length of extra wire like # 10-1-1, sold in 1 foot increments.
If the boat coupler has a manual lockout and not an electric lock out, you will not need the 4-Way to 5-Way adapter.
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Eric F.
3/3/2013
I have the same issue with an 07 Honda Odyssey. I need the reverse light lead, but it cannot be tapped into behind the lights because they are on the lift gate. Is it possible to tap in somewhere on the panel where the 4-pole harness attaches to the vehicle?