Does Curt T-Connector C56355 Need To Be Wired Directly To The Battery?
Updated 05/27/2025 | Published 03/09/2025 >
Question:
Someone in the reviews above said he didnt run the wire to the battery because he wasnt using the trailer brakes. Will it still work fine without that extra power? And would I be okay doing it this way, too, as Im only feeding two LED tailer lights and have no brake assist? Ive had my wiring a couple weeks but havent installed yet because Im not looking forward to that one step.
asked by: Randall
Expert Reply:
Hello Randall, thanks for reaching out. The 4-pole T-Connectors like the Curt # C56355 are for brake lights, taillights and turn signals. This has nothing to do with the trailer brakes, so I am not sure what the person who left that review was referring to.
Running the black wire to the battery is a necessary step. The converter module needs a direct 12v power source, and the only way to get that is to go directly to the battery. We get asked this a lot because just like you, a lot of people want to avoid it. And I get it. It is definitely the hardest part of the wiring install, but it is required. An extra pair of hands, and a tool for pulling wire will help a lot.
Let me know if you have any other questions. Leave a reply below and I will get back to you.

Manny
5/26/2025
Would it be possible to connect it to the pre-wired 12 V source that the Volvo OEM trailer hitch module would be wired to?

Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Vehicle End Connector
- Powered Converter
- No Tow Package
- 4 Flat
- Plug and Lead
- Plug-In
- Hidden
- CURT
more information >
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Randall
3/21/2025
Thank you for the reply. I went ahead before hearing back hooked the plug up to see for myself, and you are absolutely correct that it needs that power supply. I did however avoid running that wire all the way to the battery by hooking into the 12v power outlet that close to the right rear light connector plug. That did save a lot of extra work and time, and it’s working flawlessly. I understand some Volvos do not have the rear power outlet, but all of them are wired for it. This might have been my easiest hitch/ light install yet, thank you. Randall