Here we are going to look at Tow Bar Wiring and Sockets and advise on what is best for your car.
Q. What type of wiring and sockets are available for tow bars?
A. There are 2 main types of wiring and socket kits that are available easily on the market. These are referred to as 12N Sockets and have a socket with black cover. These are the Simple Type, and the Bypass Relay type.
Q. What is the difference between the Simple and the Bypass Relay type?
A. As the name suggests, the simple type is a basic wiring socket that is connected directly to the vehicle lighting wiring and the Bypass Relay type has an interface module that is between the vehicle wiring and socket. This prevents "BULB FAILURE" warnings appearing on the car dash due to small current draw from trailers, caravan lights etc as well as protecting delicate vehicle on-board diagnostics from possible damage should there be a short circuit in the wiring of the towed item.
Q. Do I need the Simple or the Bypass Relay type?
A. As a general rule all vehicles after 2003 should use the Bypass Relay type however some makes and models require the Bypass Relay type for vehicles earlier than 2003. Not sure of which you need? Contact us by Clicking here, and we can advise what is best to use.
Q. How long does it take to wire the sockets?
A. Simple wiring sockets take approximately 30 minutes, Bypass Relay types approximately 45 minutes but vary from model to model.
Q. How do I wire the socket?
A. The wiring on the 12N socket is now standard across Europe and colour coded now for ease of connecting to the vehicle wiring however we recommend that you consult an Auto Electrician particularly where the vehicle has CanBus type on-board diagnostics.
Q. Do you sell trailer lights, spare sockets, socket adapters etc?
A. Yes we do, and more besides. Check out the link here for our full range: Towing accessories
To view our full list of Wiring kits available simply Click here!
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