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Difference Between Trailer Wiring Harnesses For 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan  

Updated 06/19/2026 | Published 06/16/2026

Question:

I have a 2023 Tiguan, and there are two trailer wiring harnesses available - C56403 and C59496. What is the difference between the two other than price? I am just looking for the capability to tow a light trailer with lighting capability.

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Expert Reply:

Hey Mike! The Curt # C59496 is a universal splice-in wiring harness. The Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness # C56403 is a custom wiring harness so it plugs into the connection points at the rear without any need for splicing. Since the custom wiring harness has a lower cost right now that is the best option that will be easier to install.

What trailer are you towing with the Tiguan?

expert reply by:
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Robin H
Curt T-Connector
Curt T-Connector
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Mike C. profile picture

Mike C.

6/19/2026

I bought the custom wiring harness and it installed per the video. It is as tight a space as they say but it worked. Rather than route a power wire all the way to the battery I wired a 12v plug in adapter and plugged it in to the outlet that is in back left cubby of the tiguan. It can be unplugged when not hauling the trailer. This is my second Tiguan and I have maybe 15K of trailer time and have never had a problem.

Robin H. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Robin H.

6/19/2026

@MikeC I do not recommend using that outlet for power. If you overload the circuit and burn up your wiring you aren't going to be happy. You always want to run the hot lead up to the battery. It may seem overly cautious, but it has definitely happened to people before.
Norm G. profile picture

Norm G.

6/19/2026

I installed the C56403 on my Tiguan. It is very easy to install and is plug and play. I really like any system that does not damage a wire.

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