Wiring Harness and Other Parts Needed to Flat Tow a 2012 Honda CR-V  

Question:

Expert Reply:

You won't be able to use the existing 4-way trailer connector on your 2012 Honda CR-V because that connector does the opposite of what you're trying to accomplish. It powers a trailer's lights from the CR-V's lights. You're trying to power the CR-V's lights. Some lighting kits will not be able to be used without disconnecting the 4-way.

However, a kit like the Roadmaster Tail Light Wiring Kit # RM-155 will install without tapping into the car's wiring. It bypasses the CR-V's wiring and mounts into the tail lights. In order to keep the CR-V from overriding the motorhome's turn signals you'll also need a Brake Light Relay # RM-88400. I've attached install videos of both of these as well.

According to your owner's manual you'll also need to pull a couple of fuses (Specifically the # 19 ACC radio and # 20 ACC key lock fuses) to avoid draining your battery everytime you tow. To make this easier you can use a bypass switch, part # RM76512. If it only states to pull the to pull the # 19 ACC radio fuse instead use # RM76511.

Other parts you may need to flat tow the Honda are a base plate kit, braking system, and high-low adapter.

To connect your CR-V to the tow bar it's going to need base plates and safety cables. The Roadmaster EZ4 Base Plate Kit # RM-521567-4 is confirmed to fit your vehicle. To install base plates you'll need to trim some of the fascia on your car. See the install video I attached. For safety cables a great option are the Roadmaster Cables # RM-643 because they're coiled which will help keep them off the ground.

For a supplemental braking system the SMI Stay-IN-Play DUO # SM99251 is a favorite around here because of how reliable it is and it's easier to install than many other permanently installed systems.

Finally, you'll likely need a high-low adapter. I've attached an article to help you determine the correct rise or drop your setup requires. I've also linked our selection of adapters for you to look at once you know what you need.

In addition to my recommendations I've linked some articles on flat towing that you may find helpful.

expert reply by: Charles S

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