2018 INFINITI Towing Guide
7
A sway control device is recommended for all towing above 2,000 lb (907 kg). Too low a
percentage of tongue weight can also cause sway. Follow the instructions provided by the
manufacturer for installing and using the sway control device.
BREAKAWAY SWITCH
On a trailer with electric brakes, a breakaway switch can automatically activate the trailer brake
system if the trailer becomes separated from the tow vehicle. Should the trailer become detached,
a breakaway switch may help prevent the trailer from wandering into another lane.
WARNING-A breakaway switch relies on the power of a trailer battery, so make sure it is not
discharged. Never use the breakaway switch to “park” the trailer on a grade. The battery would
eventually discharge and release the brake, allowing the trailer to roll.
Be sure to leave enough
slack in the tether on the breakaway switch to turn corners without binding. If you do not, the
electric trailer brakes will lock-up and not release. See your trailer manufacturer for proper
installation of a breakaway switch that is compatible with your trailer braking system.
TRAILER LIGHTS
Trailer lights should comply with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, and should be
in proper working order at all times. If your vehicle is equipped with a towing package, a 7-pin
trailer harness connector is located at the trailer hitch, under a cover on the rear bumper on some
models for connecting trailer lights. For trailers that use a different style plug, contact your INFINITI
retailer or a professional supplier of towing equipment for adaptors to the 7-pin trailer harness.
A trailer’s taillights, stoplights, and turn signal lights must be wired into the towing vehicle’s
electrical system.* Most trailers operate on a four-wire system in which the stoplights and turn
signal lights utilize the same wire. Most all INFINITI vehicles have separate wires for the stoplights
and turn signal lights, therefore a device called a “converter” is needed.** Specifically, a “powered
converter” must be used, as a converter of this type creates only minimal additional electrical
demand (draw) on the vehicle lighting circuits, which helps to ensure protection for the vehicle’s
sensitive electronics.* Always check for correct operation of the taillights, stoplights, and turn
signal lights every time you connect a trailer for towing. Never replace vehicle fuses with fuses of a
higher amperage rating than the original.
*Vehicles equipped with LED taillights require that wiring be connected at a specific location. For assistance in
hooking up trailer lights, contact your INFINITI retailer or a professional supplier of towing equipment.
**QX80 and QX60 vehicles are pre-wired for trailer lighting and do not require a converter.
CAUTION – Improperly installed or poor quality trailer harness wiring may adversely affect your
vehicle’s electrical system. Use only an INFINITI approved wiring harness, or consult your retailer
or a professional supplier of towing equipment for compatible equipment.
