Do you want to get out and about and taking your bike carrier, trailer or caravan with you at the back of your car? In such a case you are obliged by law to ensure that all electricity such as the lighting works properly. To ensure that the electrical circuits are in order, you need tow bar electrics. It is important that the bike rack or trailer lights, such as the braking lights, work at the right time. Tow bar electrics are connected directly to the cars electrical circuit.
Universal or car specific tow bar electrics
At Winparts we have a wide range tow bar electrics; universal and car specific. Universal tow bar wiring fit on almost all vehicles. However, a disadvantage of universal cables is that they are not suitable for Park Distance Control (PDC) and on-board computers. Car specific tow bar electrics are, as the name implies, specific for a brand, model and type of car. This ensures that all functions work properly. All you have to do is enter your number plate on our website and the appropriate tow bar electric kits are displayed. It´s up to you to choose between a 7-pin or a 13-pin plug connection cable. The difference between 7-pin and 13-pin will be explained below.
7-pin or 13-pin tow bar wiring
There are two types of wiring; the 7-pin and the 13-pin tow bar wiring. A 7-pin cable set transmits all the electrical functions of the car such as indicating lights and brake lights. The 7-pin tow bar wiring is very suitable for bike carriers and trailers. 7-Pin cables have the disadvantage, however, that they do not support reversing lights and constant current. This makes them less suitable for larger trailers and caravans.
A 13-pin tow bar wiring cable is required for the use of caravans. These support the constant power supply of the caravan, which is required for a refrigerator and interior lighting. The 13-pin plug cable sets comply with current standards and have a number of advantages such as safe locking system, water splash-proof connection and supporting reversing lights.
Is your car equipped with a 13-pin plug, but your bike carrier or trailer has a 7-pin plug? No need to worry. With an adapter plug, you can easily convert the connection.
Fitting tow bar electrics
You may choose to install the tow bar and the tow bar electrics yourself. How to do this, is extensively described in the instruction manual that comes with most products. Of course, you can also choose to purchase the products from Winparts and have them installed at your local garage.
Buying tow bar wiringVer
You can buy tow bar electrics quickly and easily at Winparts. Just enter your number plate or select your car by make, model and type. The suitable tow bar electrics for your car will then be displayed. You can choose from popular brands such as Brink, GDW and ECS Electronics. Looking for other accessories such as tow bar caps or adapter plugs? You can also order these at affordable prices at Winparts.