What's the difference between 7pin and 13 pin tow bar kits?

When ordering a tow bar kit, you need to match the electrics up to your requirements.

• 7 Pin - this is the basic electrical system, usually used for towing basic flat bed trailers etc. All the electrical kit needs to do is power the rear lights.
• 13 Pin - this kit is for when more power is needed. What you are towing might have additional lighting on the back.
• 13 Pin full function - this is the standard 13 pin socket but with an additional power kit. Usually required for caravans/horse boxes or anything that needs power whilst you are driving. For example, a caravan might have a fridge plugged in or a horse box may have additional interior lighting to keep the horse comfortable on longer journeys.

If in doubt, go for the 13 pin kit (either standard or full function). It's usually only slightly more expensive than a 7 pin kit, but 13 pin can be converted to be used with a 7 pin plug via a simple plug in adapter. These adaptors usually cost around £5 so you are future proofing the use of your tow bar. To upgrade a 7 pin to work with a 13 pin plug would require a complete re-wiring of the electrics.