Why Does Curt # C55400 Wiring Harness Require Wire to Battery and Tekonsha # 118413 Does Not

Question:

Confused about trailer wiring for 2004 Toyota Highlander. Your Curt C55400 requires a wire to the battery. Why does the T-One #118413 not require the same wire ? Is there a drawback of using the 118413?

asked by: Tim R

Helpful Expert Reply:

Some vehicles cannot handle the additional amperage draw of the trailer lights on their taillight circuits, so a wire is required to pull power directly from the battery instead. According to Tekonsha, your vehicle is equipped to handle the extra load, so you would be fine with the Tekonsha T-One Wiring Harness # 118413, especially if you are towing a trailer with just one set of lights at the back and no extra lighting.

However, if you are towing a trailer with more than two taillights and two side marker lights, then you might choose to go with the Curt T-Connector Wiring Harness # C55400 to be safe.

I've attached two review videos for each of these wiring harness if you'd like to check them out. I've also included an installation video of the # 118413 harness on a 2004 Toyota Highlander.

expert reply by: Amber S