Correct Wiring Harness and Troubleshooting Harness for 2019 Kia Optima
Question:
after plugging the harness in, I hooked up my trailer to check operation , when the brake pedal was used the lights on the trailer would come on then go out. Also the right taillight on the car would go out. When I hooked up my camper the brake and turn signal lights would come on and start clicking when the brake was used.
asked by: Charles D
Expert Reply:
The first thing to do is check to ensure you have the correct harness because a 2019 Kia Optima has two different harnesses depending on which model you of Optima you have.
For EX and LX models you need T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # 118453. As of 8/23 we do not have a harness for the SX models, you would need to recheck our fit-guide at a later date or contact the dealer.
There are some troubleshooting steps you are going to need to take to figure out what the issue is. To determine the specific problem, you will need to purchase a circuit tester if you do not have one - the very handy Cordless Circuit Tester # PTW2979 would be my strong recommendation due to how easy it is to use - and test the connector on your vehicle after disconnecting it from your trailer. Check the wiring going into your harness from your tail lights to see if those wires are carrying the correct signals, if not then the issue is with the vehicle wiring. A converter box that is clicking could mean a short somewhere along the wiring that you would need to find.
If the signals going to your harness are okay, you'll need to test the signals coming out of the harness, and if they are correct then your issue is likely going to be with the trailer side wiring. You will also want to check your trailer side connector for corrosion, which can be green or white in color. A build-up of corrosion can interfere with the signals getting through the connectors so if it is present you will need to either replace the plug or clean the corrosion. Also check your wiring thoroughly to ensure there are none that are crimped, broken or otherwise damaged.
I have added links to a pair of help articles on trailer wiring, including a troubleshooting guide which I highly recommend taking a look at.
Products Referenced in This Question
Product Page this Question was Asked From
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4"
- Shop: Curt Easy Mount Bracket for 4- or 5-Way Flat Trailer Connector - 1-1/4" Hitch
- Video: Curt Wiring C58002 Review
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Shop: T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Q&A: Will Installing Draw-Tite Hitch 24965 Create Rust Issues or Void 2018 Kia Optima EX 10 year Warranty
- Video: Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness Installation - 2018 Kia Optima
- Shop: Curt Easy Mount Bracket for 4- or 5-Way Flat and 6- or 7-Way Trailer Connectors - 2" Hitch
- Q&A: Could a 2010 Dodge Nitro with a 3.7 liter Engine Tow a 4777 lb Rockwood Trailer
- Q&A: 2000 Freightliner XC RV Chassis Brake Controller Recommendation
- Q&A: Correct DeeZee Tailgate Lift Assist for 2019 Ram 1500
- Q&A: Can Roof Rack Fairing Rest on Sun Roof
- Q&A: Truck Bed Net For 2020 Chevy Colorado Short Bed
- Q&A: Are Snow Tire Chains And Cables Compatible With Radial Tires
- Shop: etrailer Hitch Pin Alignment Collar for Bike Racks and Cargo Carriers - 1-1/4" Hitches
- Shop: Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1
- Shop: Trailer Hitch Anti-Rattle Kit for 1-1/4" Trailer Hitches
- Search Results: 1 1 4 hitch anti rattle
- Search Results: bicycle rack
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Video: Choosing the Right Trailer Wiring
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Search Results: hitch
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Article: My Trailer Hitch Doesn't Fit
- Video: Choosing the Right Brake Controller
- Search Results: trailer hitch wiring
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop