Installing Hopkins Backup Sensor System # HM60100VA on 2011 Toyota Avalon  

Question:

Expert Reply:

I looked at some photos of the 2011 Avalon, and it appears that the reverse lights are located on the trunk lid, along with the license plate where the sensors attach. This will make the installation easier.

First, find a location in the passenger cab to locate the audible alarm. The package shelf behind the rear seats would be a good spot. Route the wire into the trunk area. The wire will follow the hinge (in such a way so that it does not get pinched) and route along the underside of the trunk lid toward the rear of the vehicle. Locate the wiring harness that feeds the reverse light and tap the red wire into the circuit feeding the reverse light. You may need to use a circuit tester, like part # PTW2993 to locate the correct circuit. Use the tester to probe the wires behind the reverse light, until you find the wire that shows current when the transmission is placed in reverse. The black wire would ground to either an existing ground stud on the underside of the trunk lid or through a self-tapping screw.

Then, install the license plate bracket. The cable that extends from the license plate bracket will need to pass through to the underside of the trunk lid. If you examine the area directly above the license plate, you might be able to find an existing grommet that can be used to pass the wire through. If no grommet is present, you might be able to loosen the license plate lamp assembly enough so that the wire can be passed through. As a last resort, an 11/32-inch hole can be drilled directly above the license plate for the cable to pass through. Make sure to use the grommet included in the kit to protect the wire.

expert reply by: Mike L

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