How to Wire a Vehicle for Towing

Few vehicles on the road come pre-wired for hauling a trailer. Most older vehicles aren't. Even though there are several ways to get the wiring done -- just about every mechanic can do it -- the most cost-effective way to wire a vehicle for towing a trailer is for the owner to do it. Most vehicles can be wired for a trailer in under five minutes.

Things You'll Need

• Trailer wire harness

Instructions

1. Locate the proper trailer connector for the vehicle and trailer to be hauled. Most auto parts stores carry several types of harnesses. Double-check before purchasing.

2. Locate the rear wire harness under the back of the vehicle. This harness normally runs right behind the bumper.

3. Locate the connection in the middle of the harness. Most vehicle have a connection in the middle of the rear lighting harness; this is where the trailer harness will connect. Unplug this connection.

4. Plug the trailer harness into the connection. The vehicle harness plugs should plug in on both sides of the trailer harness plug.

5. Mount the trailer plug on the rear of the vehicle according the manufacturer's directions. Each plug system will mount differently.

Tips & Warnings

• Multiple plug harnesses can be purchased to fit a variety of trailer plug connections.

• Do not leave the plug hanging; it will be damaged by dragging at high speed.

References

• Popular Mechanics Magazine: Wiring Your Trailer Hitch