How Do I Wire My 2008 Honda Element for Trailer Lights and Why is There a Converter Under The Dash

Published 08/04/2009

Question:

All I want to do is wire my 2008 Honda Element EX for a trailer with lights, no brakes. What is the component under the dash for? Do you sell just a harness from the plug in the spare tire compartment to a 4 wire connector tothe trailer??

asked by: Howard B

Expert Reply:

Your 2008 Honda element is set up differently than most vehicles and has a 10 pin connector under the dash to connect the converter to. This connection is essentially a loop circuit that powers the vehicles tow package wiring to the rear spare tire compartment. The converter that is attached to the under dash 10 pin connector is there to protect the vehicles wiring and convert the 5-wire system on the Honda to a 4-wire trailer lighting system.

Once you have the part connected under the dash you will connect the second portion of the wiring harness in the spare tire compartment and this will complete your wiring.

This wiring harness does not provide brake wiring or accessory functions, only the standard stop, turn and taillight lighting. There is not a simple harness that plugs in only in the spare tire compartment.

You will stow the trailer wiring connector in the spare tire compartment and when needed you run it out the rear door being careful not to get the wiring involved with the door latch.

expert reply by: Robert G