Trailer Wiring Harness for 2002 Mazda Miata

Question:

What trailer wiring kit should I get? I am going to tow a 4 x 8 Harbor freight trailer with race tires and tools and jack. My car has a small racing battery

asked by: Tom

Expert Reply:

Trailer wiring harnesses offered for your 2002 Mazda Miata include both passive types like Curt # C56175 and # 119178KIT from TowReady, and also a powered type, part # C59236. A powered harness offers the advantage of providing protection for the car's internal wiring.

With a powered harness the actual power that operates the trailer lights comes from the vehicle battery through a separate wire and fuse and does not come through the actual taillight wiring in the car. That wiring just serves as a switch to tell the converter to send out a signal. I included an article which will aid your powered harness installation.

This means that if there were a short in the trailer wiring the harness would take the hit, not the car's internal wiring. Replacing a harness is much less costly and easier than having a vehicle's internal wiring repaired.

I suggest that before you tow any trailer with your Miata you check your owner's manual for guidance regarding trailer towing.

expert reply by: Adam R