Does The Curt Trailer Hitch, # C11296, Need Any Special Wiring For A 2003 Ford Focus SE Wagon

Question:

I was told by one shop that the Focus needs a sort of fuse box to avoid ruining the electronic system of the car. I do not see anything like that on your site. What can you tell me?

asked by: Gonnie S

Expert Reply:

On your 2003 Ford Focus SE Wagon it does not require any fuse box. What they might have been telling you is on some of the newer model cars that use a 3-wire system (separate turn and brake lights) they will use a powered converter box that protects feedback from going from the trailer back to the vehicle.

Your 2003 Ford Focus SE Wagon uses a 2-wire system (turn and brake lights are same circuit) so there is no need for a converter.

You can use a powered converter system like the Wiring And Hardware Kit, # C59496, if you want a converter to protect your vehicle from any electrical shorts or mis-wire problems on the trailer, but it does require also running a wire from the back of the vehicle to the directly to the positive battery post.

There are 2 different wiring harnesses listed for a 2003 Ford Focus SE Wagon, depending on the build date.

If your vehicle was built after 11/2002 you will use the Draw-Tite Wiring, # 18252, which will tap into your taillights. If your vehicle was built before 11/2002 you will use the Tow Ready T-One Wiring Harness, # 118344, which will plug in behind the taillights.

The Curt Class I Trailer Hitch, # C11296, will fit your 2003 Ford Focus SE Wagon. It has a weight carrying capacity of 2,000 lbs. and a tongue weight of 200 lbs.

You will also need a hitch ball. Depending on the coupler size on the trailer you will be towing you will need either a Tow Ready 1-7/8 inch Hitch Ball, # 19256, or a Tow Ready 2 inch Hitch Ball, # 19258.

I am sending a video link to the # 18252 wiring harness being installed on a 2003 Chevy Impala. It is a different vehicle, but it shows the same harness being installed and the connections are the same.