Options For Installing Trailer Wiring Harness On 2014 Lexus RX 350 Without Factory Tow Package

Question:

my car does not have the factory towing package and the connector at the rear of the car is dead. So I bought the C59496 from you. Im not sure where and how to ta into the existing lines. Do I remove the cover by the spare tire to get to the wires? Is there a specific spot to connect to for the splicing? Pictures or a video for my car would be a huge help. Feeling kind of dumb right now. I watched the Buick Enclave and Prius videos, but these are not the same as the back of my car.

asked by: Dave

Expert Reply:

I called my contact at Tow Ready and asked about trailer harness installation on your 2014 RX 350. It seems there may be a couple ways to get a connector on your Lexus.

My contact said you may want to call your dealership and see what is involved in turning on the factory tow package since you have the connector. We have had customers say that the dealership says it is not just a matter of turning it on and other items need to be purchased. This can prove to be costly. If you do find it is easy and cost-effective to turn on the tow package you can use a wiring harness like part # 56083. That is a simple installation by just plugging into the connector you found.

If you find you cannot go that route you will need to hardwire the # C59496 you said you have. We do not have a video for that kit to be installed on a Lexus. You will have to gain access to the wiring behind the tail lights and have someone run through the functions while you use the included circuit tester to identity the wires you need to splice into. I have attached a drawing that shows how the wires need to be run for the harness. I have also included a link to a helpful article that explains how to run the hot lead wire to the vehicle battery.

to be honest, for an easier installation that does not require cutting or splicing into the vehicle wiring I recommend part # 119250KIT. This attaches to the wiring by clamping around your vehicle wiring instead of cutting the wires and using wire connectors.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L