Trobleshooting Trailer Wiring Harness for 2010 Audi A6

Question:

I own a trailer hitch wiring kit: Tow Ready 17499-204.. seems to be having a problem and looking to replace the module. when I put in my year and model for my car, I see something different. can you confirm? for 2010 audi A6. thanks

asked by: Harry H

Expert Reply:

The Tow Ready 17499-204 is an old part number for a discontinued product. The current powered converter recommended for your 2010 Audi A6 is part # C59496. The replacement will use the same wire color codes as your old converter, so installation should be quick and easy.

What exactly is the problem that's happening with your current wiring? I'd recommend you begin by determining if the problem exists on the vehicle or the trailer by using a circuit tester like part # PTW2993 on the trailer connector on the vehicle as each taillight function is activated. If the connector checks out okay, the problem is in the trailer wiring, not the vehicle.

If the problem is on the vehicle side, what likely happened is that the converter shorted out because of a short in the wiring on the trailer. Examine the connector on the trailer, looking for corrosion or damage. Make sure the white ground wire is securely attached to the trailer frame. Check each circuit, making sure there's no pinched wires or wires with cracked or worn insulation that would allow the copper wiring to short out on the trailer frame. If you replace the converter without first locating and repairing the short that caused the converter to blow, you'll continue to blow out your converters.

I'll link you to an FAQ article on troubleshooting trailer wiring.

expert reply by: Mike L