Trailer Wiring Harness Recommendations for a 2012 Honda Pilot Without a Factory Tow Package

Question:

I only need a 4 pin connector for my trailer. It seems it would be a better install to go with a 7 pin ,than use the adapter for the 4 pin connect. Since this way I wont have a plug hanging down when not in use. Have others done it this way. Also if I ever want to tow something with a 7 pin Im set up for it. Thanks what do you think.

asked by: Tom G

Expert Reply:

There are a few different options that you have to install a 4-way or a 7-way trailer connector on your 2012 Honda Pilot.

Option 1 would be to install the Tow Ready 7-Way Wiring Harness, # 118265, that you referenced and use a 7-way to 4-way adapter like part # PK12716 so you can connect to the 4-way connector from your trailer. The only downside to this set up is adding a brake controller. Since your vehicle did not come with a factory tow package, it probably does not have a brake controller port under the dash. If you pull a trailer with a 7-way with brakes, requiring the use of a brake controller, then you would need to hard wire the brake controller to the wiring harness using wiring kit # 5506 for the additional installation hardware. I have attached the installation instructions for this wiring harness for you to check out.

Option 2 would be to install the 4-way wiring harness, # 118558, and use the installation kit # ETBC7. The Tow Ready 4-way wiring harness will need to be installed first, then you can install the ETBC7 kit which includes a 4-way and 7-way socket and all additional installation materials to add a brake controller if it would be needed. This socket will allow you to tow a trailer with a 7-way or 4-way connector without needing an adapter. I have attached the installation instructions for both wiring harnesses as well as an installation video for the ETBC7 kit. The vehicle in the video is different from your Pilot, but the installation process will be the same.

Option 3 would be to install the 4-way wiring harness, # 118558, for now so you can tow your trailer and install the ETBC7 kit at a later time when you wanted to tow something with a 7-way connector. To keep the 4-way connector from hanging down when not in use, you can install the 4-way mounting bracket, # 18144.