Need T-Connector Trailer Wiring Harness for 2025 Sportage Hybrid EX

B

Byroonie

New member
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
Points
1
I just purchased a 2025 Sportage Hybrid EX. I need to install a trailer hitch to tow my lightweight pop-up camper (Sylvansport GO Camper, approx. 900 lb. unit weight). Apparently the EX trim does not come with a factory socket to make adding trailer lighting a simple plug-and-play install. I thought I'd found a compatible T-connector product at etrailer.com. It's their Part # C99DR. The description says it's confirmed to fit a 2024 Sportage. I called their Expert Help number to make certain and was told that it would NOT work for my 2025. They said I would have to buy their universal fit # C59236. This would be bad for me since it involves cutting and splicing factory tail light wiring. This could void my Kia warranty.

Since the 2024 and the 2025 are supposedly identical except for a styling facelift, I suspect that the # C99DR would work fine. However, I'd hate to get it installed and find that it doesn't work. So I will either have take a chance on the C99DR, or wait until they come out with one that works with my 2025, or until eTrailer tests their existing C99DR and find that it does work with a 2025 after all.

I would very much like to hear from anyone who has dealt with this same problem already.
 
I'm in the same predicament. My plan is to go through the process of removing the tail lights and confirming the connector type in there before pulling the trigger. I watched the video for the C99DR on etrailer's site, and it doesn't look difficult. I'll take pics and share my results. I have a 2024 PHEV hybrid sportage. Wish me luck.
 
I'm in similar situation with a 2025 Hybrid SX. Want to install a hitch for bike rack and light yard trailer towing. I've found plenty of options for a trailer hitch on etrailer.com. And the KIA frame bolts are pre-threaded, so no fishing bolts around thru the frame, which will make for a much easier install. I'm thinking about getting the Draw-Tite hitch. However, the basic 4-pole wiring options are much more involved. Adding to the comments above, there is now a new wiring kit on etrailer.com "TK32VR", saying Confirmed to Fit 2025 Kia Sportage. The pictures look very similar to the "C99DR", but the new one has additional wire connections in the T connector. Also appears to have more generous wire length for routing. Has anyone tried this new wiring kit?
 
Byroonie said:
I just purchased a 2025 Sportage Hybrid EX. I need to install a trailer hitch to tow my lightweight pop-up camper (Sylvansport GO Camper, approx. 900 lb. unit weight). Apparently the EX trim does not come with a factory socket to make adding trailer lighting a simple plug-and-play install. I thought I'd found a compatible T-connector product at etrailer.com. It's their Part # C99DR. The description says it's confirmed to fit a 2024 Sportage. I called their Expert Help number to make certain and was told that it would NOT work for my 2025. They said I would have to buy their universal fit # C59236. This would be bad for me since it involves cutting and splicing factory tail light wiring. This could void my Kia warranty.

Since the 2024 and the 2025 are supposedly identical except for a styling facelift, I suspect that the # C99DR would work fine. However, I'd hate to get it installed and find that it doesn't work. So I will either have take a chance on the C99DR, or wait until they come out with one that works with my 2025, or until eTrailer tests their existing C99DR and find that it does work with a 2025 after all.

I would very much like to hear from anyone who has dealt with this same problem already.
Click to expand...
Is it an option to have the dealer's service department install the wiring? Would not void a warranty then.
 
2025 Kia Sportage HEV SX - Recently installed the Draw Tite DT22MR from etrailer. Has anyone installed or had installed the KIA OEM trailer hitch wiring harness? Part number Tow Hitch Harness - Kia (DWF67-AC001), 2023-2025 Kia Sportage. This 4-pin wiring harness provides power to your trailers signal lights, brake lights, and tail lights. However, comes with no installation instructions?. I'm trying to find out where the mating connector on the car is hiding. Called the dealer parts department, and they confirmed there are no installation instructions or diagrams in the box. This is more expensive than the Etrailer connector, but also doesn't require splicing into wires, and running a power wire all the way up front to the battery. Haven't purchased it yet, until I know where it connects. If you know where the connector on the car is, please inform. Any suggestions or help appreciated.

1739279836013.webp
 
There are other Sportage forums where this is covered. Try a Google search.
 
I too am having a hitch installed and have been looking for the right wiring harness.
Found a video of installation of the OEM trailer harness in a 2023 Sportage (link below). Seems easy enough. I've seen some comments that Kia says the harness is not compatible with 2025. Yet, at Kiaparts this p/n is good for 23-25 [DWF67-AC001]
6/9 UPDATE: Went to the dealer re: the KIA harness. Similar, confusing answer. The master part source indicated not for EX trim. However with my VIN entered it showed it is compatible. I'll update after installation (hopefully).
6/19 UPDATE: NO JOY! Despite the VIN # indicating the DFW67-AC001 would work...it does not. Some vehicles are not wired for plug and play and there is no real way to know unless you look. (Schrodingers harness?) Unless the tow wiring was a specific option on the window sticker. Pretty disappointed. Checking out the TK32VR from etrailer.com.

'25 Sportage Hybrid EX
 
Last edited:
Dave said:
I'm in similar situation with a 2025 Hybrid SX. Want to install a hitch for bike rack and light yard trailer towing. I've found plenty of options for a trailer hitch on etrailer.com. And the KIA frame bolts are pre-threaded, so no fishing bolts around thru the frame, which will make for a much easier install. I'm thinking about getting the Draw-Tite hitch. However, the basic 4-pole wiring options are much more involved. Adding to the comments above, there is now a new wiring kit on etrailer.com "TK32VR", saying Confirmed to Fit 2025 Kia Sportage. The pictures look very similar to the "C99DR", but the new one has additional wire connections in the T connector. Also appears to have more generous wire length for routing. Has anyone tried this new wiring kit?
Click to expand...
I installed TK32VR in my 2025 Sportage Hybrid EX and it fit perfectly. The 'T' connectors fit fine and there was enough wire length to reach the lights without a lot of leftover. The crimps were kind of a pain, though. You need a big crimp tool to do it right, I ended up using vise grips. I ran the power lead under the driver's side to the + terminal in the fuse box.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top