What Is the European Trailer Connector?

The European trailer connector is a type of electrical connector typically containing a male plug on the vehicle and a female receptacle on the trailer. It provides power and control to the trailer. It is often used in trailer wiring harnesses.

There are two main types of trailer connectors, the seven-pin and the thirteen-pin. While both provide a reliable electrical connection between the trailer and the towing vehicle, the thirteen-pin version provides more services than the seven-pin version.

The seven-pin connector is a standard European trailer connector that is widely used in commercial vehicles and semi-trailers. This version of the receptacle is lightweight and durable. In addition, it offers fast and reliable connections between the towing vehicle and the trailer. With its pure copper contact, it is also waterproof. And since the plug is small and easy to carry, it is used in a variety of vehicles and applications.

The 13-pin connector is a more modern version of the seven-pin version. It was designed with input from the vehicle manufacturers and is in line with the ISO 11446 standard. However, the 13-pin version of the receptacle is not as common as the seven-pin version.

Some vehicles, especially vintage cars, may have a 13-pin version of the receptacle. The center pin on the 13-pin version is slightly different from the seven-pin version, and the outlet and socket on the plug are both different. These differences may not be a big deal for some car manufacturers, but they might pose a problem for others.

Another important feature of the receptacle is the spring-loaded dust cover. This protects the brass terminal and keeps the connector clean when not in use. Also, the fact that the receptacle can be a swivel allows for better access to the plug, making it easier to install.

While the 7-pin connector is the standard European trailer connector, the 13-pin version is a more recent entrant into the market. It is designed to offer better protection against moisture and provides a more positive locking. Additionally, the seven-pin version is easily carried by the towing vehicle.

The other main contender for best European trailer connector is the hybrid. This connector has a receptacle that meets the current requirements for a compatible trailer socket and offers features such as Ethernet interface integration into a conventional contact system. Unlike a typical trailer socket, this one can be used in the future for the American automobile market.

While the other connectors may seem more promising, there are some important drawbacks associated with them. First, they cannot deliver all the services of the latest and greatest gadgets. Second, they are not easily transferable from Europe to the United States. Finally, they lack some important functions such as an alarm, light, or camera.

So, do you want to stick to the old way of using trailer connectors? If so, you might be able to use the electronic Trailer Adapter Harness to convert a European 13-Pin trailer connection socket to a USA 7-Pin RV type trailer connector.