Why is a Battery Connection Required for Trailer Wiring Installation on a 2012 ford Taurus

Updated 12/02/2013 | Published 11/29/2013

Question:

Wiring harness adapter is great...easy and clean installation. Question - why does it need to be connected to the vehicles battery? What happens if I install and use the harness without connecting to the vehicles battery?

asked by: Tim W

Expert Reply:

The trailer wiring harness # C56093 and any wiring harness that requires a direct connection to the battery uses battery power to power the trailer lights. If not connected, it will not work and the trailer lights will not come on.

Also, this offers another level of protection between the trailer wiring and the vehicle wiring. The idea is that you are isolating the vehicle from the trailer as mush as possible to limit the chances of a short on the trailer damaging the vehicle wiring.

expert reply by: Michael H