What Do I Need to Add a 7-Way and Tow a Trailer With Brakes on a 2014 Kia Sportage?  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Hello John,

Thanks for writing in!

It all depends on whether your trailer has brakes. Either way, you'll start with the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness # C56251. This gives your 2014 Kia Sportage the 4-way flat that controls the trailer's turn signals, brake lights, and running lights.

If your trailer does not have brakes and you just need the 7-way for your lights and 12V power, you will want the TowSmart 7-Way RV Style to 4-Flat or 5-Way Flat Trailer Connector Adapter # TS98RR. Your 4-way plugs into the adapter, and you'll run a power wire from the battery back to the 7-way for that 12V circuit.

If your trailer does have brakes, you'll want the Universal Installation Kit # ETBC7 instead. This works with the # C56251 and gives you the 7-way along with the wiring needed for 12V power and a brake controller. For the installation, you'll run power from the battery back to the 7-way, run the brake output wire from the controller back to the 7-way, and connect the controller to the brake light signal at the front of the Sportage. The # ETBC7 includes the wiring, circuit breakers, connectors, and hardware needed to get everything hooked up.

For the brake controller, I really like the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty # RED52VR. It's proportional, and the small control knob is all you see inside the vehicle instead of having a large controller mounted underneath the dash.

If you're looking for a hitch as well, I really like our etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e54KR. It's a Class III hitch with a 2" receiver, and the matte black finish gives it a nice OEM look. Check out the attached image to see how it looks installed.

You'll also want to check your owner's manual to make sure you stay within Kia's towing limits for your Sportage.

What kind of small trailer are you going to be towing, something for work, or something for adventuring?

expert reply by: Kate F

0

etrailer Hitch on Kia Sportage
(click to enlarge)