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Tekonsha
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2011 - 2016 Kia Sportage
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Tekonsha T-One connector (also referred to as T-Connector) wiring harnesses are the fastest and easiest way to add an electrical connector to the back of your vehicle. These connectors are used to link the wiring from your vehicle to the trailer when towing. Tekonsha T-One connectors feature custom designs to fit each vehicle make and model based on manufacturer specifications. Plus, the Plug & Play connectors on the end of the wires make it easy to install. No cutting or splicing!
Tekonsha offers the largest, most complete line of T-One connectors. To install a Tekonsha T-One wiring harness, simply locate your vehicle's wiring harness connector typically behind the vehicle taillight - unplug the connection and insert the T-Connector into the vehicle's harness. It's that easy! So what are you waiting for? Hit the road with the peace of mind only Tekonsha can provide. Life's a Journey. Stop Often.
| BRAND: | TEKONSHA |
| PART NUMBER: | 118526 |
| WARRANTY: | LIMITED 1 YEAR WARRANTY |
| WEIGHT: | 1.8 LBS |
| UNIVERSAL OR SPECIFIC FIT: | SPECIFIC |
| CIRCUIT PROTECTED: | YES |
| HARNESS TYPE: | MALE FEMALE |
| TERMINAL QUANTITY: | 4 |
| WIRE COLORS: | BROWN, GREEN, YELLOW, WHITE |
| WIRE QUANTITY: | 4 |
| WIRE GAUGE: | 16 GA. |
| POWER LEAD REQUIRED: | YES |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM TYPE: | 3-WIRE SYSTEM |
| HARDWARE INCLUDED: | YES |

Tekonsha is a leading manufacturer of electronic trailer brake controllers, pioneering the category in the 1970s. The lineup spans proportional units such as the Prodigy P3 and Prodigy iD, time-delayed controllers, the wireless Prodigy RF, plus vehicle-specific wiring harnesses, adapters and trailer brake components engineered for smooth, predictable stopping at any speed.
Tekonsha Engineering Company began in 1964 building RV steps and mirrors. Within a few years it had found its real calling, and by the 1970s Tekonsha was pioneering the manufacture of electronic trailer brake controllers, the product category that still defines the brand. More than half a century later it remains the reference name in trailer braking and is part of the Horizon Global group alongside Reese, Draw-Tite, Fulton, Bulldog and Wesbar.
A brake controller is the component that tells a trailer's electric brakes how hard to work and when, and getting that right is the difference between a controlled stop and a shove from behind. Tekonsha builds both major types. Proportional controllers use an internal accelerometer to sense how quickly the tow vehicle is slowing and apply trailer braking to match, so light braking stays light and hard braking is immediate. Time-delayed controllers ramp to a preset output over a fixed interval, a simpler and more economical approach that suits occasional towing.
The current brake controller range covers most of that ground. The Prodigy iD pairs with a phone through Tekonsha's EDGE technology for setup and monitoring, the P3 offers storable settings for multiple trailers and a trilingual colour LED display, the Prodigy P2 adds a dimmable display and boost mode for heavier loads, and the Voyager keeps operation simple and dependable. The Prodigy RF mounts to the trailer itself and controls wirelessly, which suits rental fleets and drivers who swap tow vehicles.
Installation is supported by vehicle-specific brake control harnesses that plug into a factory connector rather than requiring cut-and-splice wiring, along with mounting brackets and adapters. Matched controller bundles pair a unit with the correct harness. Products are tested to meet and often exceed published industry standards.
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1 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2011 - 2016 | Kia Sportage | Tow Harness T: Connector Assembly Drilling Required Install Time is 60 minutes |
Yes, the 2011-2016 KIA Sportage Tekonsha Plug & Play T-Connector Adapter Trailer Wiring 118526 (Part #TK118526) is designed to fit the 2011-2016 Kia Sportage.
The 2011-2016 KIA Sportage Tekonsha Plug & Play T-Connector Adapter Trailer Wiring 118526 (Part #TK118526) fits 2011-2016 Kia Sportage models. The 2016 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
The 2011-2016 KIA Sportage Tekonsha Plug & Play T-Connector Adapter Trailer Wiring 118526 (Part #TK118526) fits the following vehicles: 2011-2016 Kia Sportage. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The 2011-2016 KIA Sportage Tekonsha Plug & Play T-Connector Adapter Trailer Wiring 118526 (Part #TK118526) Drilling is required for installation. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
Yes, this T-Connector is designed for the Kia Sportage. The manual confirms fitment for this vehicle. However, the manual does not specify which model years are compatible, so contact the manufacturer or check the product listing to confirm your specific year matches.
A T-Connector is a wiring harness that allows you to connect a trailer to your vehicle's electrical system. It taps into your vehicle's existing taillight wiring and provides a connection point for trailer lights. The system includes a black box-module that manages the electrical connections and a 4-flat connector for the trailer plug.
You will need: trim panel remover, 10 mm socket and ratchet (or 10 mm wrench), drill with 3/32" drill bit, 1/4" socket, wire crimpers, wire cutters, Phillips head screwdriver, fish tape, and test-probe. These tools are required to remove trim panels, disconnect connectors, drill the grounding hole, and test the installation.
Yes. You must disconnect and isolate the vehicle's negative battery terminal before beginning installation. This is a critical safety step. You will reconnect it after all wiring connections are complete, in step 9.
The T-Connector installs on the driver's side only. The manual specifies driver's side for taillight assembly removal, trim panel removal, grounding point location, and all connector routing.
Yes. On the driver's side, you must remove two screws from the taillight assembly and pull the taillight housing directly rearward to remove it. This is required to access and connect the red/brown wires to the vehicle's mating connectors. You will reassemble it after connecting the T-Connector.
You must temporarily remove the rear threshold plate, storage covers, and floor covering. On the driver's side, remove 3 screws from the side trim panel, but do not remove the panel itself—only loosen it to access the wiring harness behind it. Removing the panel can result in damage. All items must be reinstalled at the end of installation.
The T-Connector has three color-coded sections: yellow/green wires connect to the vehicle's mating connector underneath the rear of the vehicle (step 5); red/brown wires connect to the driver's side taillight pocket connectors (step 6); and a white wire is used for grounding to the vehicle frame (step 7). A black 12 gauge wire connects to the battery positive terminal through a fuse holder (step 8).
Yes. You must drill one 3/32" hole for the grounding wire. Locate a suitable grounding point near the connector on the vehicle's frame or cross member. Clean dirt and rust proofing from the area, then drill the hole and secure the white wire using the eyelet and screw provided. Do not drill into the vehicle floor, bed, or any exposed surfaces.
Before drilling, verify what is behind any surface to avoid damage to the vehicle and personal injury. Do not drill into the vehicle floor, bed, or any exposed surfaces. Choose a grounding point on the vehicle's frame or cross member. Clean dirt and rust proofing from the area before drilling the 3/32" hole.
A 15 amp fuse is required. The fuse holder is provided with the T-Connector. After connecting the black 12 gauge wire to the vehicle's positive battery cable using the yellow butt connector, install the 15 amp fuse into the fuse holder in step 9.
Route the black 12 gauge wire from the T-Connector's grey 12-pin connector either through a grommet along the exterior frame or along existing wiring through the thresholds into the engine compartment, avoiding areas that may pinch or break the wire. Remove the fuse from the yellow fuse holder, cut the fuse holder wire, attach the ring terminal, and secure it to the vehicle's positive (+) battery cable. Connect the other end of the fuse holder to the black 12 gauge wire using the yellow butt connector provided.
The grey 12-pin connector is part of the T-Connector harness. It connects to the mating connector on the black box-module. Ensure the mating surfaces are clean and free of dirt, and insert the connector fully with locking tabs in place. This connector carries the power and signal connections for the trailer lights.
Mount the black box-module on a flat surface in an out-of-the-way location inside the vehicle interior only. The surface must be free of moisture and mounted high enough to avoid direct contact with water or liquid. Do not mount it on the exterior or in areas exposed to elements or moisture, as this could cause serious damage to the vehicle and module.
Secure the remainder of the T-Connector harness with the cable ties provided to prevent damage or rattling. Be careful to avoid areas that would pinch, cut, or melt the wire. When reinstalling trim panels, threshold, storage covers, and floor covering, be careful not to pinch or cut the wires.
Do not exceed the lower of your towing manufacturer's rating or these limits: maximum 2 stop/turn lights per side (4.2 amps total) or maximum tail lights (7.5 amps). Overloading the circuit can cause fires. Consult your vehicle's owner's manual and instruction sheet for additional information on your specific towing capacity.
After installation is complete and all connections are made, test and verify the installation with a test light or by connecting an actual trailer. All connections must be complete for the T-Connector to function properly. The manual recommends using a test-probe (included in required tools) to verify proper operation.
Store the 4-flat connector in the rear cargo area when not in use. This protects it from damage and keeps it accessible for when you need to connect a trailer.
The connection sequence is: (1) Connect yellow/green wires to the vehicle's mating connector underneath the rear (step 5); (2) Connect red/brown wires to the driver's side taillight pocket connectors (step 6); (3) Connect the white grounding wire to the vehicle frame (step 7); (4) Connect the grey 12-pin connector to the black box-module and route the black 12 gauge wire to the battery (step 8); (5) Reconnect the negative battery cable and install the 15 amp fuse (step 9).
Route the yellow/green wires from inside the rear cargo area behind the side trim panel and out through the exposed hole, then up to the grommet and seat it (step 4). Route the red/brown wires up to the driver's side taillight pocket (step 6). Route the black 12 gauge wire either through a grommet along the exterior frame or along existing wiring through the thresholds into the engine compartment, avoiding areas that may pinch or break the wire (step 8).
The grommet is a rubber seal on the vehicle's wiring harness. Unseating it means removing it from its current position. This is necessary to allow you to push the harness and grommet into the vehicle interior so you can access the wiring from inside the cargo area to make the T-Connector connections (step 3). After routing the wires, you seat the grommet again to secure it in place (step 4).
The manual states: 'Do Not Remove Panel. Removing panel can result in damage.' You only need to remove the 3 screws to loosen it enough to access the wiring harness behind it. Completely removing the panel risks damaging the panel or the vehicle's interior.
When connecting any T-Connector harness to a vehicle mating connector, push the connector in fully until the locking tabs click into place. The manual emphasizes this for all connections: yellow/green wires (step 5), red/brown wires (step 6), and the grey 12-pin connector (step 8). Be careful not to damage the locking tabs during insertion. All connector surfaces should be clean and free of dirt before connecting.
Clean all connector surfaces to be free of dirt before connecting them. This applies to the vehicle's wiring harness connectors and the T-Connector mating surfaces. Dirty connectors can prevent proper electrical contact and cause the system to malfunction.
Yes, it is designed for the Kia Sportage. Confirm your specific model year with the manufacturer, as the manual does not specify which years are compatible.
Yes, disconnect and isolate the negative battery terminal before starting installation. Reconnect it after all wiring connections are complete.
Yes, you must drill one 3/32" hole for the grounding wire on the vehicle's frame or cross member. Do not drill into the floor, bed, or exposed surfaces.
Trim panel remover, 10 mm socket/ratchet or wrench, drill with 3/32" bit, 1/4" socket, wire crimpers, wire cutters, Phillips screwdriver, fish tape, and test-probe.
A 15 amp fuse is required. Install it in the fuse holder after all connections are complete.
Do not exceed 2 stop/turn lights per side (4.2 amps) or maximum tail lights (7.5 amps). Overloading can cause fires.
Mount it on a flat, out-of-the-way surface inside the vehicle only, in a dry location high enough to avoid water contact. Never mount it on the exterior.
Test and verify with a test light or by connecting a trailer once all connections are complete. All connections must be complete for proper function.
The manual states: 'All connections must be complete for the T-Connector to function properly.' Verify that: (1) all three T-Connector harnesses are fully inserted and locked (yellow/green, red/brown, and grey 12-pin); (2) the white grounding wire is securely fastened to the vehicle frame; (3) the black 12 gauge wire is connected to the positive battery cable through the fuse holder; (4) the 15 amp fuse is installed in the fuse holder; (5) the negative battery cable is reconnected; and (6) all connector surfaces are clean and free of dirt. Test with a test light or trailer to verify operation.
Ensure that the red/brown T-Connector wires are routed correctly and not pinched or caught in the taillight housing. The wires should be routed up to the driver's side taillight pocket and connected to the vehicle's mating connectors before reassembling the taillight assembly. Verify that the connectors are fully inserted and locked, and that no wires are blocking the taillight housing from seating properly.
Route all wires carefully to avoid areas that would pinch, cut, or melt the wire. Use the cable ties provided to secure the harness in place. When reinstalling trim panels, threshold, storage covers, and floor covering, be careful not to pinch or cut the wires. Avoid routing wires through sharp edges or areas with moving parts.
The white grounding wire must be securely fastened to a clean grounding point on the vehicle's frame or cross member using the eyelet and screw provided. If the connection is loose, tighten the screw. If corrosion is present, remove the wire, clean the grounding point with a wire brush to remove rust and oxidation, and reinstall the eyelet and screw. Ensure the grounding surface is clean and free of dirt and rust proofing before installation.
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Ordered online. Shipment arrived on time and with all the correct parts. Great customer service and friendly staff. Also, pricing was great!
May 22, 2023