Why Does 4-Way Wiring Harness Have Hot Lead on 2017 Toyota Tacoma

Updated 07/30/2021 | Published 07/29/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Hopkins Plug-In Simple Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(30)

$94.27

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

(359)

$70.64

Question:

2017 toyota tacoma trailer harness. what is the purpose for the hot wire to the battery? all of the other kits ive installed in the past just tee into the tail lights and your done.

asked by: Justin D

Expert Reply:

Each of the 4-way wiring harnesses for your 2017 Toyota Tacoma do require a hot lead run to the battery, and the reason for this is to power the module. This is needed in your Tacoma and other vehicles in order to protect the tail light circuits from being overloaded, as they are not able to provide enough power without being damaged.

You are correct that there are plenty of other vehicles that this isn't needed, though through testing, the harness manufacturers have determined the hot lead is required to protect your Tacoma's wiring. There are two kits that will work on your '17 Tacoma, which I'll list for you:

- Hopkins Vehicle Wiring Harness # HM43354

- Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness # C56349

Of these three I highly recommend the Curt because we have found they make reliable trailer wiring harnesses.

expert reply by: Kyle S