CURT 56158 Vehicle-Side Custom 4-Pin Trailer Wiring Harness User Manual for Honda CR-V

1. Introduction

This manual provides instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of the CURT 56158 Vehicle-Side Custom 4-Pin Trailer Wiring Harness. This harness is designed to provide a standard 4-way flat trailer wiring connection for select Honda CR-V vehicles, enabling the connection of trailer tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals. It utilizes a plug-and-play design, connecting directly into your vehicle's existing electrical system without the need for cutting or splicing wires.

Figure 1.1: Overview of the CURT 56158 Vehicle-Side Custom 4-Pin Trailer Wiring Harness, showing the main control module, vehicle-specific connectors, 4-way flat output, and associated wiring.

2. What's Included

The CURT 56158 wiring harness package typically includes the following components:

• Custom 4-Pin Trailer Wiring Harness with integrated control module.
• Vehicle-specific connectors for direct plug-in to the Honda CR-V's taillight assembly.
• 4-way flat connector socket for trailer connection.
• Rubber dust cover for the 4-way flat connector.
• Ground wire with ring terminal.
• In-line fuse holder with fuse.
• Cable ties for securing wiring.
• Mounting hardware (e.g., screw for ground wire).
• Instruction sheet (general).

Figure 2.1: Additional components such as the fuse, ground wire terminal, cable ties, and the circuit protected converter system information card.

3. Setup and Installation

The CURT 56158 harness is designed for a vehicle-specific, plug-and-play installation on select Honda CR-V models. No cutting, splicing, or soldering of vehicle wires is required.

3.1. Pre-Installation Steps

• Ensure the vehicle's ignition is off and the parking brake is engaged.
• Gather necessary tools: flathead screwdriver or trim removal tool, Phillips head screwdriver, electric drill (for ground wire, if needed).
• Consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific instructions on accessing the taillight wiring area.

3.2. Installation Procedure

1. Access Vehicle Wiring: Locate the vehicle's taillight wiring harness connectors. For many Honda CR-V models (e.g., 2012-2016), the primary connector for this harness is often a blue connector located behind the upper interior panel on the driver's side, near the taillight assembly. You may need to remove or partially peel back interior trim panels to access this area.
   

   Figure 3.1: Illustration of the plug-and-play connectors designed to integrate with existing vehicle sockets.

2. Connect Harness: Disconnect the existing vehicle wiring harness from the taillight assembly. Plug the CURT harness's vehicle-specific connectors into the corresponding vehicle and taillight sockets. Ensure connections are secure.
3. Ground Wire Connection: Locate a suitable grounding point on the vehicle's frame or chassis, preferably a clean, unpainted metal surface. Secure the white ground wire (with the ring terminal) using a self-tapping screw or an existing bolt. Ensure a solid electrical connection.
4. Mount Control Module: Secure the CURT control module in a dry, protected location within the vehicle's interior, away from moving parts or excessive heat. Use the provided cable ties or double-sided tape (if included) to prevent rattling or damage.
5. Install Fuse: Insert the provided fuse into the in-line fuse holder on the CURT harness. This fuse protects the trailer wiring system.
6. Route 4-Way Flat Connector: Route the 4-way flat connector to the exterior of the vehicle, typically near the trailer hitch. It can be routed through a grommet in the trunk pan or temporarily draped out of the trunk when in use. Ensure it is secured to prevent dragging or damage.
7. Reassemble Panels: Carefully reassemble any interior trim panels that were removed.
8. Test Connection: Before towing, connect a trailer or a trailer light tester to the 4-way flat connector and verify that all trailer lights (tail lights, brake lights, turn signals) function correctly.

Important Note: Vehicle wiring connector locations can vary slightly by model year. If you encounter difficulty locating the correct connector, it is recommended to consult online resources or vehicle-specific installation videos for your exact Honda CR-V year.

4. Operating Instructions

Once installed, the CURT 56158 harness provides a standard 4-way flat connector for your trailer.

1. Connecting to a Trailer: Align the 4-way flat connector from your vehicle with the corresponding connector on your trailer. Push them firmly together until they are fully seated.
   

   Figure 4.1: The 4-way flat connector provides connections for tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals.
2. Functionality: The harness provides power for the following trailer lighting functions:
   • Tail Lights (running lights)
   • Brake Lights
   • Left Turn Signal
   • Right Turn Signal
3. Disconnecting: When towing is complete, carefully disconnect the 4-way flat connector by pulling firmly on the connectors, not the wires.

5. Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and reliable performance of your wiring harness.

• Dust Cover Usage: When the 4-way flat connector is not in use, always place the included rubber dust cover over it. This protects the terminals from dirt, moisture, and corrosion.
  

  Figure 5.1: The included dust cover protects the 4-way flat connector when not in use.

• Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect the wiring harness for any signs of wear, fraying, or damage. Check connections for tightness and corrosion.
• Cleaning: If the connector terminals become dirty, clean them with an electrical contact cleaner and a soft brush.
• Storage: If the 4-way flat connector is routed to the exterior, ensure it is securely stowed when not in use to prevent damage from road debris or weather.

6. Troubleshooting

This product features a circuit protected converter system. If a short circuit or overload situation occurs in a trailer lighting circuit, the module is designed to shut the circuit down to prevent damage.

6.1. Trailer Lights Not Working

• If trailer lamps are working but the trailer lamps are not working:
  • Shut power off to the faulted circuit for a few seconds, then try the circuit again.
  • If the lamp stays off, return to normal function by fixing the short or overload.
• If lamps light for a few seconds and then go off:
  1. Check ground wire on both the harness and trailer.
  2. Check for correct or overloaded condition (too many bulbs).
• If the circuit fails to light:
  1. Check low vehicle fuses.
  2. Check plug-in / splice connections.
  3. Check for defective bulbs.
  4. Check ground wire on both the harness and trailer.
  5. Locate and correct a short.

Note: Using a tester can help confirm system function. If problems persist, see your installer for corrective action. Disconnect the harness from the vehicle when not in use and frequently while towing.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty Information

Specific warranty details for the CURT 56158 Vehicle-Side Custom 4-Pin Trailer Wiring Harness are not provided in this document. For comprehensive warranty information, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official CURT website.

9. Support

For technical assistance, installation questions, or further support regarding your CURT 56158 wiring harness, please contact CURT customer service.

• Manufacturer: Curt Manufacturing
• Website: www.curtmfg.com (Please verify the official website for the most up-to-date contact information.)