7-Way/4-Pole Trailer Connector to Replace Existing 7-way on 2012 Honda Pilot

Question:

My 2012 Pilot has the factory tow package with an installed 7 blade connector. I have a utility trailer with 4 pins. I know I can get a simple adapter, but Im also thinking about switching out the installed connector with one of your 7 blade/4 pin combination connectors. Will I have to cut and splice wires to do this, or can I simply unplug the original connector and plug in the replacement to the wiring box in the rear cubby?

asked by: Sharon B

Expert Reply:

Take a look at your existing 7-way, you'll need to stick your head under the rear bumper so you can see the rear of the connector. If the factory tow package harness can be unplugged from the rear of the 7-way (see photo), then I'd recommend using a T-connector like # 118384.

You'd simply unplug the tow package harness from the back of the existing 7-way, and plug the # 118384 inline between the tow package harness and the 7-way. I've linked to a video showing a typical installation.

If your tow package harness cannot be unplugged from the rear of the 7-way connector, an adapter like
# PK12716 would really be your best bet as we really don't have a good option that would nicely fit in the existing cutout in your bumper next to the hitch receiver. The # 37185 you'd looked at could be make to work, but it would involve cutting and splicing into existing wiring, which is why I wouldn't recommend going that route.

expert reply by: Mike L