Troubleshooting Trailer Wiring Harness on 2008 Hyundai Entourage

Question:

I have a 2008 Hyundai Entourage with a factory installed tow package. The lights will not work properly when the trailer is in use. Have been told that I need a new converter box. Will the T-One vehicle wiring harness work with the wiring that has been installed?

asked by: Doug

Expert Reply:

The first thing I'd recommend you do is troubleshoot the wiring harness, I've linked you to an FAQ article that explains how to do this.

If you confirm that the trailer wiring harness is faulty, you'd want to remove it before installing the # 118410. It's theoretically possible to simply cut the wires and remove the old converter and splice in the new one.

However, the short that damaged the converter box might have been caused by a damaged portion of the remaining trailer wiring, which is why I'd recommend simply replacing the whole unit.

After replacing the trailer wiring harness on the vehicle, before plugging a trailer in you will want to closely examine the wiring on the trailer to make sure there's no short circuits which damaged the converter. Begin with the trailer connector and work your way back to the trailer taillights. Look for pinched wires and loose connections. Look for wires with cracked or worn away insulation that would allow the copper wire inside to short out on the trailer frame.

expert reply by: Mike L