Does Trailer Wiring Harness for 2017 Acura MDX Require Connection to Vehicle Battery

Published 07/31/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter for Electric Brake Controllers

(8)

$17.29

Mounting Bracket and Installation Hardware - Pollak 7-Pole, RV-Style Trailer Connector - Vehicle End

(1192)

$14.49

Question:

Love the site. Great videos and really helpful in my planning. Just one question about this harness. It says it connects directly to the battery to avoid putting strain on the system. Does that mean I need to run a separate wire up to the battery in order to provide power to the module? Or does the plug in connectors already provide the power? Thanks in advance.

asked by: Mike J

Expert Reply:

To install the Tekonsha # 118628 trailer wiring harness on your 2017 Acura MDX, you wouldn't need to run a separate circuit to the battery, as that's been done at the factory. All you'll need to do is plug the connector in at the junction box in the cargo area and install the fuses as outlined in the linked instructions.

The 7-way kit, part # 118289 would be the same. If you went with the 7-way, and your trailer has brakes you'll need to install a brake controller to actuate them. The Tekonsha Primus, part # TK90160 is a good and inexpensive choice. The controller would install using a # 3028-P brake controller wiring harness which would plug into the connector under the dash to the left of the steering column near the top of the e-brake pedal, as shown in the provided photo.

If you go with the 7-way, you'll also need the mounting bracket to attach the 7-way to the hitch crossbar. The bracket consists of part # 18136 and # PK12711U.

expert reply by: Mike L