Installation of Draw-Tite Tow Package Wiring Harness # 118258 on a 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe

Question:

I have a 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe and it appears from the online instructions that the connector ends on the 118258 harness plug directly into the tow prep wiring connector located under the deck on the driver side of the car. I will be using the hitch mostly for bike mounts and not towing, but on rare occasions I may want to tow, so it looks like I could just plug the 118258 unit in temporarily under the deck and not have to do any removal of internal trim. Is this correct? Is the only reason for the pushing in of the grommet and connectors to provide protection from the elements? Thanks.

asked by: Rick B

Expert Reply:

The Draw-Tite Replacement OEM Tow Package Wiring Harness, part # 118258, is designed to connect to the trailer input connectors on the inside of the vehicle to protect the connection of the connectors and the Modulite converter box from the elements.

The installation you have described will work, it will just not allow the protection of the converter box from the elements. You will want to make sure that you support the converter box and make sure none of the wiring harness will be damaged underneath the vehicle. It should not be a problem for temporary use to plug in the wires when towing and remove when not towing.

I am including a link to the installation instructions on the Draw-Tite wiring harness.

expert reply by: Jeff D