Troubleshooting 2020 Ford Explorer Platinum with Curt Spectrum and Ford Tow Package

Question:

Hi I bought a new 2020 Explorer Platinum. Also bought from ETRAILER A Curt Spectrum 51170 controller and 51322 wiring harness. The Ford dealer plugged the 51322 in for me because it is very hard to get to. When I hook up the Spectrum, the vehicle ! brake lights come on and stay on and the vehicle gives me warnings that some drivers assist controls arent working. Switching the two micro switches doesnt help. As long as the Spectrum is plugged in this continues. Either something is wrong with the 51322, the 51170 or Ford has changed the connections to their under dash plug. Have you seen any issues with this?

asked by: Rod R

Expert Reply:

I haven't heard of any issue with the wiring location or function. I reached out to Curt and they have not had an issue using the # C51322 wriring harness on a 2020 Explorer Platinum which installs under the dash slightly left of the steering column.

It sounds like the wiring may not have been connected correctly or there is another wiring issue. I recommend checking the connection to the factory harness and using a circuit tester like # PTW2993 to check those pin functions before reconnecting. Double check the connections from the dial into the control box as well because it sounds like there is a constant power draw on the brake lights when there should only be brake lights when the brake pedal is pressed or the manual override feature of the controller is engaged.

expert reply by: Jason S