When is an activation required for retrofitting?

8. November 2018 at 11:10

Activation of the electrical kit
In order to ensure that the towing vehicle later communicates correctly with the trailer and that the lighting equipment does its job without error, the correct installation of the electrical kit with an activation is important. This should best be done by a specialist, especially with regard to the ever more complex electronics of the vehicles.

Activation is required above all for newer vehicles equipped with a CAN data bus. The activation must be carried out properly to ensure the complete functions of the electrical kit at the next trailer travel. Often notes regarding the retrofitting and activation of the electrical kit are given  in the operating instructions of the vehicle manufacturer, in the specialist workshop, the responsible staff usually knows how to perform the programming and unlocking and are equipped with the necessary funds.

 

What happens if the activation of electrical kits is not done?


If you do not let the electrical kit unlock, it will be difficult with the trailer. After all, all flashing and light functions on the trailer are important for safe driving with the trailer in order to be able to participate safely in traffic. These functions can only work properly by unlocking. For example, this ensures that the rear fog lamp is switched off when the trailer is being used on the vehicle and that it works on the trailer. If the activation does not take place, both rear fog lights shine. Often when driving with the trailer there are acoustic and electronic signals, for example when flashing. These will also be eliminated if your electrical kit is not installed correctly, but this is more likely to involve electrical kits with audible or electronic flashers.