Will the Porsche PIWIS System on a 2008 Porsche Cayenne Recognize Tekonsha ZCI Wiring

Updated 07/10/2020 | Published 07/08/2020

Products Featured in This Question

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

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ZCI Circuit Protected Vehicle Wiring Harness w/ 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector and Installation Kit

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etrailer Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches - 7,500 lbs

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Question:

The Porsche PIWIS system is designed to recognize a factory-installed trailer hitch and work alongside that hitch in a number of important ways, including: 1 active vehicle-trailer combination stabilisation, different transmission shift points when a trailer is recognized, integration of the trailer with the vehicles alarm system, etc. Assuming I get the below 2 parts form you and have them professionally installed: 1 Hitch #13220 2 ZCI Wiring Harness part # 119250KIT Heres my question to you: After installation, will my Porsche PIWIS system recognize the ZCI as a valid trailer attachment so that it will accept the recoding to now activate that module in the main computer? This would allow the system to work just like a factory install, where when the trailer is in use, the cars main computer turns on the stabilization features, different shift points, alarm, etc.? I appreciate the help and hope you can answer my question! Best,

asked by: Ryan H

Expert Reply:

I'm guessing that your 2008 Porsche Cayenne determines there is a trailer attached through the wiring which will be specific from Porsche. While the hitch # 13220 and ZCI Wiring Harness # 119250KIT is a really great combination for your application, the ZCI is designed to basically be invisible on your car. It draws power directly from your battery and then clips onto your OEM wiring so that it can detect when the power needs to be sent.

To complete a towing setup you also need a ball mount kit. I recommend checking out Ball Mount Kit # 989900 because it includes two ball mounts, one with a 3/4” rise/2” drop and the other with a 2-3/4” rise/4” drop, a 1-7/8” hitch ball, a 2” hitch ball, and a pin and clip. You will want to refer to the attached ball mount article to ensure that this kit is correct for your towing application.

expert reply by: Jon G