Trailer Hitch and Wiring Harness Recommendation for a 2013 Acura TL

Question:

Ive owned some cars that you can physically install a hitch, but for brake light connections, etc. to work you have to re-program the cars electronics to handle it. This can be expensive and/or void the cars warranty. I now have a 2013 Acura TL what issues like I just mentioned above exist with putting a hitch on the Acura?

asked by: Craig

Expert Reply:

Since you are concerned about voiding the warranty of your TL, I recommend checking the towing section in your owners manual if you plan on installing a trailer hitch to tow a trailer. Honda states that the Acura TL was not designed for towing and doing so could void the warranty. That is something to keep in mind before installing a trailer hitch or trailer wiring harness.

If you want a wiring harness because you will be carrying a hitch mounted cargo carrier with additional lights, then you will be happy to hear that trailer wiring harness manufacturers have developed wiring harness that prevent the need of having to re-flash the vehicles computer. For your 2013 Acura TL, you can use the Hopkins Active Tail Light Converter with Install Kit # 46255. This harness plugs into your vehicles tail light assemblies and draws power from the vehicle's battery, so there is no cutting, splicing or interference with your vehicles tail light circuits.

For a trailer hitch, I recommend the Curt Class I Trailer Hitch, # C11496, is the hitch I would recommend. This is the most economical hitch for your vehicle, and you will not be sacrificing any quality. Curt is a well-known name in the trailer hitch industry.

expert reply by: John H