BRINK Electric Towbar Kit User Manual

1. Product Overview

The BRINK 703554 Electric Towbar Kit is a specialized electrical wiring harness designed for integrating a towbar with your vehicle's electrical system. This kit ensures proper communication between the vehicle and the trailer, providing essential lighting and power functions.

Key features include:

• 13-Pole Connector: Standardized connection for comprehensive trailer functions.
• Original Plug-in Connectors: Ensures seamless integration with the vehicle's existing wiring.
• Check-Control System Compatibility: Prevents error messages on the vehicle's dashboard.
• Rear Fog Light Disconnection: Automatically deactivates the vehicle's rear fog light when a trailer is connected.
• Parking Aid Disconnection: Disables the vehicle's parking sensors when a trailer is attached to prevent false alarms.
• Permanent Positive: Provides continuous power to the trailer for functions like charging or interior lighting.
• Charging Cable Included: Facilitates charging of the trailer's battery.
• CAN Bus System Compatibility: Designed for vehicles equipped with a CAN bus system.

This kit is compatible with various vehicle models, including:

• BMW X1 (F48)
• BMW 2 Gran Tourer (F46)
• MINI Hatchback (F56)
• BMW 2 Active Tourer (F45)
• BMW 1 Hatchback (F40)

2. Setup and Installation

Installation of the BRINK 703554 Electric Towbar Kit should ideally be performed by a qualified technician due to the complexity of vehicle electrical systems, especially those with CAN bus integration. This section provides general guidance.

2.1. Pre-Installation Checks

• Ensure the vehicle's ignition is off and the battery is disconnected before beginning any electrical work.
• Verify that the kit components match the parts list provided in the packaging.
• Confirm vehicle compatibility using the provided list or by consulting your vehicle's manual.

2.2. Wiring Connection

The kit utilizes original plug-in connectors for a secure and reliable connection to your vehicle's existing wiring harness. Locate the designated connection points, typically in the rear of the vehicle near the taillights or within the trunk area.

Connect the wiring harness from the kit to the corresponding vehicle connectors. Ensure all connections are firm and properly seated. The kit includes a charging cable and a permanent positive wire; these should be routed and connected according to the detailed instructions provided with the physical product to ensure proper power supply to the trailer.

Figure 1: A typical 13-pole trailer electrical connector, similar to the one included in the kit. This connector provides all necessary electrical signals for trailer lights and auxiliary functions.

2.3. System Integration

Once the physical connections are made, the kit's control module integrates with the vehicle's CAN bus system. This integration enables features such as the check-control system, automatic rear fog light disconnection, and parking aid disconnection. No additional coding or programming is typically required for these standard functions, as the kit is designed for plug-and-play compatibility.

3. Operating Instructions

Using the BRINK Electric Towbar Kit is straightforward once installed. The system operates largely automatically when a trailer is connected.

3.1. Connecting a Trailer

• Ensure the vehicle is stationary and the parking brake is engaged.
• Align the 13-pole plug of your trailer with the vehicle's towbar electrical socket.
• Insert the plug firmly and twist it clockwise to secure the connection.
• Verify that the trailer's lights (indicators, brake lights, tail lights) are functioning correctly before driving.

3.2. Automatic Functions

• Rear Fog Light: When a trailer is connected, the vehicle's rear fog light will automatically deactivate to prevent glare to the driver from the trailer's reflective surfaces. The trailer's fog light (if equipped) will function instead.
• Parking Aid: The vehicle's rear parking sensors will be automatically disabled when a trailer is detected, preventing continuous beeping.
• Check-Control: The vehicle's onboard computer will recognize the connected trailer and adjust its monitoring systems accordingly, preventing false error messages related to lighting or other electrical systems.

3.3. Disconnecting a Trailer

• Ensure the vehicle is stationary and the parking brake is engaged.
• Twist the trailer plug counter-clockwise and carefully pull it out of the vehicle's socket.
• Replace the protective cap on the vehicle's socket to prevent dirt and moisture ingress.

4. Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps ensure the longevity and reliable operation of your electric towbar kit.

• Socket Cleaning: Periodically inspect the 13-pole socket on your vehicle for dirt, debris, or corrosion. Clean with a non-conductive electrical contact cleaner if necessary.
• Protective Cap: Always keep the protective cap on the vehicle's socket when not in use to prevent moisture and dirt from entering the contacts.
• Cable Inspection: Check the visible parts of the wiring harness for any signs of wear, fraying, or damage. Ensure cables are securely fastened and not rubbing against sharp edges.
• Connection Integrity: Occasionally check that all plug-in connections remain secure.

5. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your electric towbar kit, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

5.1. No Trailer Lights Functioning

• Check Trailer Plug: Ensure the 13-pole trailer plug is fully inserted and twisted securely into the vehicle's socket.
• Trailer Fuses: Inspect the fuses on the trailer itself.
• Vehicle Fuses: Check the relevant fuses in your vehicle's fuse box that supply power to the towbar electrics. Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for fuse locations.
• Bulbs: Verify that the bulbs in the trailer's light units are not faulty.

5.2. Check-Control Error Message

• Connection: Re-seat the trailer plug to ensure a proper connection.
• Trailer Lights: Confirm all trailer lights are working correctly. A faulty bulb on the trailer can sometimes trigger a check-control error.
• Kit Wiring: If the error persists without a trailer connected, or if it's a new installation, re-check all wiring connections of the kit to the vehicle.

5.3. Parking Aid Not Disconnecting

• Trailer Detection: Ensure the trailer is fully connected and detected by the system.
• System Reset: Try turning the vehicle off and on again with the trailer connected.
• Professional Check: If the issue persists, a diagnostic check by a qualified technician may be required to assess the kit's integration with the vehicle's CAN bus system.

For complex issues or if basic troubleshooting does not resolve the problem, it is recommended to consult a professional automotive electrician or the BRINK customer support.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

Information regarding the specific warranty terms and conditions for the BRINK 703554 Electric Towbar Kit was not available in the provided product data. Please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or contact the manufacturer, Brink, directly for warranty details and technical support.

For technical assistance or inquiries, please contact Brink customer service through their official website or authorized distributors.