Installation Of Curt Spectrum # C51170 Brake Controller On 2010 Volkswagen Golf TDI

Question

Question:

I was wondering if you have any specific information on installing this brake controller on a 2010 VW Golf TDi 5-door with manual transmission. I am interested in this one mostly because it installs as components, not as one unit and with the cockpit of this car, there is no place where I would want the whole traditional control box. Additionally, I like the idea of being able to place the manual override in a very easy to reach location. I would also be interested in a way to shut off the unit when Im not towing in order to extend its life. Any information regarding this list of wantsinch would be greatly appreciated, including whether there is an easy to install wiring harness for this car.

asked by: Eric M

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Curt Spectrum Brake Controller, part # C51170, will work for your 2010 Volkswagen Golf. With limited space, the option of three separate components can prove to be a benefit. It features seven sensitivity levels that allow you to adjust the braking power and aggressiveness, and has a built-in, slide-style manual override. Mounting hardware is included with this brake controller. There are a couple of other things needed to complete the brake controller installation.

You will need the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller, part # ETBC7. This system attaches to the 4-way connector on the back of your vehicle.

If you do not have a 4-way flat trailer connector already installed on your Golf, I recommend the Curt PWM Powered Converter with Wiring Kit, part # C59236. I have attached a link to an installation video for this kit being installed. As far as an easy harness installation for your vehicle, the attached installation articles and videos do make installation much easier, but unfortunately there is no plug-in harness available without doing some hardwiring.

There is no switch on the controller that would allow you to simply turn the system on or off. The power indicator light does not activate until there is a connection made to the trailer. The only way to cut the power would be to unplug the harness at the back of the controller. This is not recommended for fear that it may be overlooked when hooking a trailer to the vehicle and the system would not be activated when needed.

You will want to consult your owners manual or your dealership to find what the towing capacity of your Golf is. You will want to make certain you stay within the recommended limits when considering towing.

I have attached some articles, installation videos, and a couple of photos that will help with installing the brake controller and the other components needed for your Golf.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L

1

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Answer 1

The trailer wiring harness we offer for your 2015 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen is the Curt Harness, part #C59236. This harness is a hardwire installation so I have attached a drawing that shows how it should be installed. This harness will work with…

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Answer 2

The (discontinued) Tekonsha Powered Tail Light Converter 119190KIT is a universal wiring harness so there aren't any specific instructions when it comes to installing the kit on your 2013 Volkswagen GTI. With that being said, we did get the…

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Answer 3

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

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Answer 4

We do not recommend using the 12 volt power outlet in the trunk area for connection of a powered circuit protected wiring harness, like the Curt Hardwire Kit, #C59236, which includes the wiring to the battery. The purpose of the power wire is to…

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Answer 5

The #118667 cannot be used on your 2010 Volkswagen Golf you would need a new harness like the #C59236 which is a confirmed fit. The connectors and wiring configuration of your Golf would not work with the harness you mentioned.

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Answer 6

I have a solution for you but there are no plug and play adapters for your 2014 VW Jetta Sportwagen. For a 4-flat connector you are going to want the Curt Wiring Harness Kit w/ 4-Pole Trailer Connector and Installation Kit item #C59236. This kit…

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Answer 7

All the brake controller needs to sense a trailer connection so that you can test it is a slight amperage draw on the output circuit. For that you can use a circuit tester like the part #PTW2993 with one pin grounded and the other on the output pin.…

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Answer 8

We do have a wiring harness fit for your 2010 VW Jetta SportWagen TDI, and the correct fit is a hardwire option, which is the following part - Curt Vehicle Wiring Harness #C59236

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Answer 9

The Curt wiring harness you referenced, part #C59236, will work fine on your 2014 Volkswagen Jetta TDI SportWagen. The linked article will also be helpful to your installation by providing tips for routing the harness power wire.

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Answer 10

I reached out to Curt who informed me the single red light on your Curt Spectrum Brake Controller #C51170 indicates there is an issue in the wiring for your vehicle going to the trailer. This could still mean the controller itself is faulty. A bench…

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Answer 11

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

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Answer 12

I've never heard of an actual third brake light connector on a camper shell to plug in on a truck and we don't carry any parts to do that. The light generally needs to be hardwired into the truck's brake light circuit. The issue with this…

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