Recommended Trailer Wiring Harness For 2013 Ford Escape
Question:
I bought a Hidden Hitch eTrailer product number 87627 - to use with a bike carrier on my 2013 Ford Escape. Now I want to buy a small trailer, so I need a wiring kit. What is: A. The functional difference between 4 and 7 pin kits Yeah ... 3 pins ... B. The best kit to use that is easy to install. BTW, the car does not have the towing package, if that is not obvious. Thanks,
asked by: John
Expert Reply:
The difference in the 4-way and 7-way wiring is the 4-way has the basic trailer functions, right turn and stop light, left turn and stop light, tail light, and a ground. These are used for trailers that do not have brakes, reverse lights, or a need for an auxiliary power. I have attached a link to a helpful article that explains trailer wiring you can check out.
Since you do not have the tow package I recommend part # 118566. This is a 4-way trailer harness that plugs into your Escape wiring behind the tail lights. You then run a hot lead wire to the battery and that's it.
If a 7-way is needed, you would then need to use part # ETBC7. This plugs into the 4-way on your Escape and you would then need to run the remaining wires. You can cap any wires if they are not needed.
If you need a 7-way then you are probably using a brake controller. I recommend part # 90885. This is our most popular brake controller because it is easy to install and operate. I have attached a drawing that shows how 7-way wiring for a brake controller is run.
Products Referenced in This Question
Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Up to 4 Axles
- LED Display
- Up to 360 Degrees
- Tekonsha
more information >
Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Powered Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Video: Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Installation - 2013 Ford Escape
- Video: etrailer Class III Trailer Hitch Installation - 2013 Ford Escape
- Article: Rust Prevention
- Shop: Cabin Air Filter
- Shop: Side Window Vents
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Shop: Base Plate for Tow Bar
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Q&A: Trailer Hitch Recommendation for 2018 Ford Escape
- Q&A: Help Determining Cost to Have Shop Install Hitch on 2013 Ford Escape
- Shop: Mighty Cord Replacement 7-Way RV Style Trailer Connector for Factory Tow Package - Vehicle End
- Shop: T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Shop: PTC Custom Fit Cabin Air Filter - White Media Particulate
- Shop: Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Shop: Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class IV - 2"
- Shop: 7- and 4-Pole Trailer Connector Socket w/ Mounting Bracket - Vehicle End
- Shop: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Search Results: hitch
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Video: Choosing the Right Trailer Wiring
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Video: Choosing the Right Brake Controller
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Search Results: locking hitch pin
- Article: The 5 Best Trailer Drop Hitches You Can Buy
- Shop: Brake Controller