Trailer Wiring Harness Recommendation for 2012 Ford Explorer

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Question:

Hi, i have a 2012 XLT without the tow package. However, i am installing the factory hitch so it will look just like like the explorers that come with the tow package. I just need to know what wiring harness i need to get the same functionality and look as that of an explorer with the factory tow package. Thank you.

asked by: Mike L

0

Expert Reply:

Based on my research, the Explorers with a factory tow package came out of the factory with either a 7-way trailer connector or a 4-way connector. If you want a 4-way connector, I recommend using the Tow Ready T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118540. I have attached an installation video of this wiring harness on a 2012 Explorer.

To determine if you can use the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118272 with a 7-way connector, that you referenced, you will want to find the factory wiring connector. It is located on the passenger's side of the vehicle, next to the muffler. I have attached a photo showing what the connector looks like for you.

Once you've found the connector, you will want to separate the two parts of the connector to test the pins of the connector with a circuit tester, like # PTW2993. If the pins have power to them, you will have no problems using the # 118272 trailer wiring harness. If some of the pins do not have power, you can check fuses and relays to see if any need to be added to provide power.

For example, the trailer brake control module requires a fuse in location 3 of the Power Distribution Box of the 2012 Ford Explorer. Other fuses or relays to check for are the trailer tow battery charge relay in location 12, the trailer tow battery charge in location 24, the trailer right turn/stop lamps relay in 37, the trailer back up relay in 38, the trailer left stop/turn lamps relay in 53, trailer back up lamps fuse in 60, trailer stop/turn lamps fuse in 63, trailer park lamps relay in 77, trailer park lamps fuse in 84, and trailer battery charge relays in 93. You can double check the locations of fuses and relays related to towing a trailer in your owner's manual.

Since the trailer connector in the # 118272 will need to be wired to the harness, I have linked a help article on trailer wiring for you.

expert reply by: Victoria B

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Answer 1

The T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness #118410 is not going to drain the vehicle battery unless there is something plugged into the 4-Way that is drawing power. If the power wire for the harness is touching bare metal somewhere it could be shorting and…

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Answer 2

Installing a 7-way trailer wiring connector on your 2016 Ford Explorer is pretty easy actually. All you need is the part #118272 which plugs easily into a port under the rear of your vehicle. I attached a picture of what the connector looks like as…

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Answer 3

The part #HM40975 is designed to fit the round 7-way connector that is found on several vehicles. To install it would require your vehicle to have this round connector. (see picture) If instead you needed a way to hardwire in a 7-way to a vehicle…

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Answer 4

Since you have the square connectors on your 2012 Ford Explorer the easiest solution to add a 7-way is the part #118272 that you mentioned. For a more cost effective solution though we have the #37185 that allows your current 4-way to plug in and…

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Answer 5

Yes, the 7-way trailer connector part #118272 which is a confirmed fit for your 2017 Ford Explorer will be fully functional.

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Answer 6

If your 2017 Ford Explorer has one of the connectors for the #118272 you have the other as well and it would be just a matter of looking further for it. I attached an install video for this kit on a similar 2017 Ford Explorer for you to check out…

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Answer 7

For your 7- and 4-Pole Trailer Connector Socket w/ Mounting Bracket - Vehicle End #HM40975 if you like the double function and look, you can keep it. You will need to get the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness for Factory Tow Package - 7-Way Trailer…

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Answer 8

With just the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector #118540 installed not connected to a trailer there would not way it would just put an amperage draw on the electrical system. Current has to go somewhere to draw from the…

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Answer 9

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

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Answer 10

I did some checking and the hub/drum we offer that will work for you is the part #8-430-5UC3. This uses the same bearings as the 8-415 and will be an exact fit aside from the fact this is a non-ABS setup and the 8-415 came in an ABS setup and non-ABS…

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Answer 11

I've never heard of an actual third brake light connector on a camper shell to plug in on a truck and we don't carry any parts to do that. The light generally needs to be hardwired into the truck's brake light circuit. The issue with this…

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Answer 12

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

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Trailer Wiring Harness Recommendation for 2012 Ford Explorer

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