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Category Archives: Towbars


The New Volkswagen ID Buzz Towbar - Cover Photo

The New Volkswagen ID Buzz Towbar

Vehicle Information:

Fixed and detachable Towbars with dedicated electrics now available at Telford Towbars.

So the all new ID Buzz is now available here in the UK and at Telford Towbars we have worked hard on making the Towbar and dedicated electrics available for this vehicle. And finally… we’ve done it! So, if you’re interested in a towbar for your ID Buzz, we thought it would be helpful to let you know some details regarding towing with your new ID Buzz.

What is the towing capacity for the new ID Buzz?

Both the Buzz Life and the Buzz style have a towing capacity of 1000 kgs with a braked trailer and 750kgs without.

When will the ID Buzz Towbar and Electric kit be ready?

The towbar and vehicle specific electrics are now ready for the ID Buzz. In fact, we’ve already installed a few to tis vehicle already. Take a look at our most recent installation below containing a detachable towbar with 13 pin electrics, fully coded using our complete diagnostic software to ensure safe and legal towing.

How much does a towbar installation cost for my Volkswagen ID Buzz?

Towbar fitting prices vary depending on the vehicle specification. The easiest way to find out the costings of a fitting is to use our online towbar quote builder linked below, which takes as little as 60 seconds to complete! Simply enter your vehicle registration or manually select your vehicle to generate a quote.

Should I choose 7 or 13 pin electrics?

When you are towing a standard trailer or have a lighting board attached and even a bike carrier a 7-pin vehicle specific kit will enable all of your light functions for this job. A 7-pin Vehicle Specific Single Electrics kit provides all of the basic legal lighting requirements for towing and harnesses perfectly with your car. We never fit by-pass or universal electrics to your vehicle!  

You will need a 13-pin Vehicle Specific Electrics kit for towing a caravan because it provides all of the legal lighting requirements for towing, as well as powering the electrics inside your caravan. Most caravans, manufactured after January 2009, will have 13-pin electrics and will also connect to your reverse lights whilst providing a full power supply inside your caravan. Please note if you have the older 12n 12s style electrics we will still fit the latest electrics to your vehicle and then simply provide a 12n 12s to 13 pin adapter.

What we offer:

Here at Telford Towbars, we offer mobile towbar installation to suit you. Should you choose to come to us, we aim to ensure that your experience is as easy and relaxed as possible. We provide loan vehicles free of charge so you can go about your day as normal. Or, if you want to would like to explore the local area, enjoy a day out on us at the Ironbridge Gorge Museum and the Blists Hill Victorian Town here in Telford! The birthplace of the industrial revolution.

Warranty for your ID Buzz towbar and towing electrics:

Our installations come with a “Life of Ownership” warranty. This means that for as long as you own your vehicle, we have you covered! We also offer a free 1 year Towbar health check after your installation.

Our very happy customers:

Customer service is a number one priority at Telford Towbars. Our team of highly trained technicians and support team are always here to help and go that extra mile. Don’t believe us? Check out our 5* reviews on google!

Telford Towbar - BLOG Social Media Templates - Polestar 2 Detachable Towbar & Dedicated Towing Electrics

Detachable Towbar & Dedicated Towing Electrics for your Polestar 2:

Vehicle Information:

The Polestar 2 Towbar and dedicated towing electrics are now available from Telford Towbars, complete with vehicle specific towing electrics. It’s great to see another electric vehicle on the market with a credible 1500kg towing capacity.

Our Installations:

Take a look at one of our most recent towbar installations for the Polestar 2 below, including a detachable swan neck towbar and 13 pin vehicle specific towing electrics. The benefits of the detachable towbar ensures that the neck can be removed when towing is not taking place, ensuring the smart looks of the vehicle are restored.

Towbar and Electrics Information:

How much does it cost to fit a towbar on my Polestar 2?

Towbar fitting prices vary depending on the vehicle specification. The easiest way to find out the costings of a fitting is to use our online towbar quote builder linked below, which takes as little as 60 seconds to complete! Simply enter your vehicle registration or manually select your vehicle to generate a quote.

7 or 13 Pin Electrics?

When you are towing a standard trailer or have a lighting board attached and even a bike carrier a 7-pin vehicle specific kit will enable all of your light functions for this job. A 7-pin Vehicle Specific Single Electrics kit provides all of the basic legal lighting requirements for towing and harnesses perfectly with your car. We never fit by-pass or universal electrics to your vehicle!  

You will need a 13-pin Vehicle Specific Electrics kit for towing a caravan because it provides all of the legal lighting requirements for towing, as well as powering the electrics inside your caravan. Most caravans, manufactured after January 2009, will have 13-pin electrics and will also connect to your reverse lights whilst providing a full power supply inside your caravan. Please note if you have the older 12n 12s style electrics we will still fit the latest electrics to your vehicle and then simply provide a 12n 12s to 13 pin adapter.  

What we offer:

Here at Telford Towbars, we offer mobile towbar installation to suit you. Should you choose to come to us, we aim to ensure that your experience is as easy and relaxed as possible. We provide loan vehicles free of charge so you can go about your day as normal. Or, if you want to would like to explore the local area, enjoy a day out on us at the Ironbridge Gorge Museum and the Blists Hill Victorian Town here in Telford! The birthplace of the industrial revolution.

Warranty for your Polestar 2 towbar and towing electrics:

Our installations come with a “Life of Ownership” warranty. This means that for as long as you own your vehicle, we have you covered! We also offer a free 1 year Towbar health check after your installation.

Our very happy customers:

Customer service is a number one priority at Telford Towbars. Our team of highly trained technicians and support team are always here to help and go that extra mile. Don’t believe us? Check out our 5* reviews on google!

You only fit a towing solution to your vehicle once, FIT THE BEST!

Contact us today!

If you are still unsure about what electrics to use for your towbar fitting, then please don’t hesitate to contact us:

Booking is simple you can call us on:  +44 (0)1952 608750

You can follow the booking process on our website: https://shop.telfordtowbars.co.uk/contact-us/

Or book a Call Back: https://telfordtowbars.co.uk/contact/request-callback

Remember, there is always a cuppa waiting!

Telford Towbar - BLOG Social Media Templates - BMW I4 Towbar & dedicated towing electrics.

BMW I4 Towbar & Dedicated Towing Electrics at Telford Towbars

Looking for a towbar for your new BMW I4? Then look no further.

Today saw our first fitment to the new BMW I4. The car has an impressive 1600kgs towing capacity meaning another full electric vehicle with a credible towing capacity. The customer wanted to go for the detachable option so that it can be removed when the towbar is not in use retaining the vehicles good looks.

Our Right Connections UK dedicated towbar electrics connect perfectly with the vehicles canbus system. The nose weight on the bar is a generous 100kgs so plenty of weight for carrying a number of bikes on the back.

Click here to check out our range of towbar mounted bike racks.

How can we help?

If you would like to get price for your BMW I4 Towbar then simply visit our towbar finder to purchase a Towbar today! Click here to view our dedicated towing solutions.

If you want us to carry out the install then simply enter your registration number in our registration search tool, to generate a quote in less than 60 seconds.

Contact us today!

If you are still unsure about what electrics to use for your towbar fitting, then please don’t hesitate to contact us:

Booking is simple you can call us on:  +44 (0)1952 608750

You can follow the booking process on our website: https://shop.telfordtowbars.co.uk/contact-us/

Or book a Call Back: https://telfordtowbars.co.uk/contact/request-callback

Remember, there is always a cuppa waiting!

Telford Towbar - BLOG Social Media Templates - Audi Q5 Detachable Towbar & 13 pin Dedicated Electrics

Audi Q5 Detachable Towbar & 13 pin Dedicated Electrics at Telford Towbars

Are you looking for a Towbar on your Audi Q5? Then take a look at our recent install at Telford Towbars!

The Installation

Our customer wanted to go for a detachable Towbar due to the fact the bar would not be in use all of the time. The other reason was that they didn’t want to spoil the look of the new car. We chose the Tow-Trust detachable Towbar that has a towing capacity of 2400kgs. The Audi Q5 dedicated electrics is the 13 pin kit from Right Connections that integrate correctly with the vehicles canbus system it was then fully coded with our very own Complete Diagnostics tool. Don’t forget all of our towbars are fitted with the coding included in the price.

How much is it to fit a Towbar to my Audi Q5?

Towbar fitting prices can vary depending on the vehicle specification. The easiest way to find out the costings of a fitting is to use our towbar quote builder.

Do you offer a mobile fitting service for my Audi Q5 Towbar?

We do offer a mobile towbar fitting service at Telford Towbars… however, should you come to us, we like to make your fitting experience as easy and relaxed as possible!  Go about your day as normal with a FREE hire car, or if you want to explore the local area, have a day out on us at the Ironbridge Gorge Museum here in Telford! The birthplace of the industrial revolution.

What warranty do I get on my Audi Q5 Towbar?

Our towbar installations come with a “life of ownership” warranty. So for as long as you own your vehicle we have you covered! We also offer a FREE 1 year Towbar health check after your installation.

How can we help?

If you want us to carry out the install then simply enter your registration number in our registration search tool, to generate a quote in less than 60 seconds.

Contact us today!

If you are still unsure about what electrics to use for your towbar fitting, then please don’t hesitate to contact us:

Our Happy Customers!

Customer service is a main priority at Telford Towbars our team of highly trained technicians and support team are always here to help and go the extra mile! Don’t believe us? Check out of 5* google reviews!

Telford Towbar - BLOG Social Media Templates -Volkswagen ID4 Detachable Towbar & Dedicated Towing Electrics Fitted

Volkswagen ID4 Detachable Towbar & Dedicated Towing Electrics Fitted

Does your hobby need extensive equipment? Do you have a lot to transport for work?

No problem at all for the ID4, the optional towing bracket is designed for loads up to 750 kg (unbraked) or 1,000 kg (braked). The towbar when not required detaches and can be stored in the boot whilst not in use.

Take a look at our recent towbar installation for the new ID4 at Telford Towbars.

How much is it to fit a towbar to my Volkswagen ID4?

Towbar fitting prices can vary depending on the vehicle specification. The easiest way to find out the costings of a fitting is to use our towbar quote builder.

Do you offer a mobile service to fit my ID4 Towbar?

We do offer a mobile towbar fitting service at Telford Towbars… however, should you come to us, we like to make your fitting experience as easy and relaxed as possible!  Go about your day as normal with a FREE hire car, or if you want to explore the local area, have a day out on us at the Ironbridge Gorge Museum here in Telford! The birthplace of the industrial revolution.

Click here to find out more.

What warranty do I get with my VW ID4 Towbar?

Our towbar installations come with a life of ownership warranty so for as long as you own your vehicle we have you covered.

How can we help?

Purchase a Towbar today! Click here to view our dedicated towing solutions.

If you want us to carry out the install then simply enter your registration number in our registration search tool, to generate a quote in less than 60 seconds.

Contact us today!

If you are still unsure about what electrics to use for your towbar fitting, then please don’t hesitate to contact us:

Booking is simple you can call us on:  +44 (0)1952 608750

You can follow the booking process on our website: https://shop.telfordtowbars.co.uk/contact-us/

Or book a Call Back: https://telfordtowbars.co.uk/contact/request-callback

Our Happy Customers!

Customer service is a main priority at Telford Towbars our team of highly trained technicians and support team are always here to help and go the extra mile! Don’t believe us? Check out of 5* google reviews!

Remember, there is always a cuppa waiting!

Telford Towbar - BLOG Volkswagen T7 Multivan Towbar & Dedicated Towing Electrics at Telford Towbars

Volkswagen T7 Multivan Towbar & Dedicated Towing Electrics at Telford Towbars

The new Volkswagen Multivan is an attempt to square this circle. Despite appearances, the name, and being manufactured by VW Commercial Vehicles, it’s not based on a van at all. Instead, it’s a bespoke people mover (mostly) based on the same MQB  as an infinity of other Volkswagen Group products, while successfully evolving all the clever interior features that have made generations of Caravelle so popular with practical lifestyle buyers (and executive transport firms).

What makes it special?

It’s also the first VW of this type with plug-in hybrid power, comes with DSG as standard, and is available with a reasonably high level of tech, including up to 25 driver assistance features and standard-fit LED lighting.

There are two lengths, seven seats, and you can have it in a somewhat exotic range of colours – including some slightly challenging two-tone hues. These and the new chrome beltline option are an attempt to marry the Multivan’s aero- and safety-optimised exterior design with the cultish Microbus heritage.

How do I get a quote for a Towbar for my T7 Multivan?

If you want us to carry out the install then simply enter your registration number in our registration search tool, to generate a quote in less than 60 seconds.

How can we help?

Purchase a Towbar today! Click here to view our dedicated towing solutions.

If you want us to carry out the install then simply enter your registration number in our registration search tool, to generate a quote in less than 60 seconds.

Contact us today!

If you are still unsure about what electrics to use for your towbar fitting, then please don’t hesitate to contact us:

Booking is simple you can call us on:  +44 (0)1952 608750

You can follow the booking process on our website: https://shop.telfordtowbars.co.uk/contact-us/

Or book a Call Back: https://telfordtowbars.co.uk/contact/request-callback

Our Happy Customers!

Customer service is a main priority at Telford Towbars our team of highly trained technicians and support team are always here to help and go the extra mile! Don’t believe us? Check out of 5* google reviews!

Remember, there is always a cuppa waiting!

Telford Towbar - BLOG Social Media Templates Lexus NX450h Detachable Towbar & Vehicle Specific Electrics Fitted

Lexus NX450h Detachable Towbar & Vehicle Specific Electrics Fitted at Telford Towbars

This new second-generation Lexus NX is representative of a new attitude from the Japanese premium brand. It’s the first Lexus to be developed under a new strategy that its chief engineer says is bringing the brand back to basics, with a more self-critical approach. And it’s also the first Lexus ever to come with plug-in hybrid power – drivetrain technology that, until now, has been out of favour with Lexus despite its long track record of electrification.

Below we have one of the new generation Lexus 450h in at Telford towbar for a detachable towbar and 13 pin vehcicle specific electrics.

How can we help?

Purchase a Towbar today! Click here to view our dedicated towing solutions.

If you want us to carry out the install then simply enter your registration number in our registration search tool, to generate a quote in less than 60 seconds.

Contact us today!

If you are still unsure about what electrics to use for your towbar fitting, then please don’t hesitate to contact us:

Booking is simple you can call us on:  +44 (0)1952 608750

You can follow the booking process on our website: https://shop.telfordtowbars.co.uk/contact-us/

Or book a Call Back: https://telfordtowbars.co.uk/contact/request-callback

Our Happy Customers!

Customer service is a main priority at Telford Towbars our team of highly trained technicians and support team are always here to help and go the extra mile! Don’t believe us? Check out of 5* google reviews!

Remember, there is always a cuppa waiting!

Telford Towbar - BLOG Social Media Ford Mustang Mach-E Towbar & Dedicated Electrics

Ford Mustang Mach-E Towbar & Dedicated Electrics

The Mustang Mach-E is an blend of past, present and future. It mixes a distinguished name from the 1960s with an SUV  body that is very much of the moment, and on-trend fully electric power.

The all-new electric car is an alternative to SUV EVs such as the Tesla Model X, Mercedes EQC, Audi e-tron and Skoda Enyaq.

Ford Mach-E Towing capacity.

The all new ford Mach-E has a towing capacity of 750kgs so it gives the driver the perfect oppourtunity to have a towbar installed for the purpose of towing a small un braked trailer or bike carrier. Take a look below at our recent install of a detachable towbar and 13 pin electrics.#

Our quick video below show how easy the bar is to remove and detach. Once the bar is removed and the electrics pushed into the storage position it leaves the Mustang Mach-E looking like no bar is fitted at all. Take a look for yourself here https://fb.watch/cdsArGVDLo/

If you would like to get a quote for the New Ford Mach-E simply visit https://www.telfordtowbars.co.uk/shop/search/car-reg-search enter your reg number and get a quote in less than 30 seconds. Dont forget every customer get free entry to the Ironbridge George Museums so even if you live a distance away from us book in take a free loan car and have a day out on us for up to 6 people https://telfordtowbars.co.uk/shop/2021/09/28/free-entry-to-the-ironbridge-gorge-museum-for-all-our-customers/

Telford Towbar - BLOG Social Media Templates New Hyundai Ioniq 5 Towbar

The New Hyundai Ioniq 5 Towbar & Dedicated Electrics

The IONIQ 5 is the first from the ground up electric vehicle. The good news is that the IONIQ 5 can actually tow and a very reasonable/practical towing capacity of 1,600 kg too. The IONIQ 5 is based on a new dedicated electric vehicle platform called the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) which other full-electric Hyundai vehicles will be based on. Hyundai sibling brand KIA is also using this platform with the EV6 which shares similar specifications to the IONIQ 5.

We have now supplied many Towbar & Electrics for the New Hyindai Ioniq 5 please visit our shop should you wish to purchase the associated parts.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 Detachable Towbar https://telfordtowbars.co.uk/shop/product/hyundai-ioniq-5-detachable-towbar/

Hyundai Ioniq 5 7 pin dedicated towing electrics https://telfordtowbars.co.uk/shop/product/hyundai-ioniq-5-2021-onwards-7-pin-towing-electrics-ki13607m/

Hyundai Ioniq 5 13 pin dedicated towing electrics https://telfordtowbars.co.uk/shop/product/hyundai-ioniq-5-2021-onwards-13-pin-towing-electrics-ki13613m/

If you are looking to have your towbar fitted by us the simply follow the link here https://telfordtowbars.co.uk/shop/ you can enter your reg number or select the vehicle manually to generate a quote in less than 30 seconds

Hyundai IONIQ 5 Towing Capabilities

So as you can see from the key specs above, there are two towing capacity ratings for the Hyundai IONIQ 5. If you opt for the Standard Range version with rear-wheel drive (SR RWD) it is limited to towing up to 750 kg. However, if you opt for either of the Long Range variants with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive you get a towing capacity of 1,600 kg.

Best Bike Racks for Cars in 2022

Best Bike Racks for Cars in 2022

There are many car-bike racks on the market, so finding the right one can be tricky. However, here at Telford Towbars   we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the top four car bike racks in that we recommend. So, without further ado, here are the best car bike racks on the market! Whether you’re looking for something simple and easy to use or something more robust, we’ve got you covered.

A question to ask yourself is how frequently do you need to carry bikes?

How many bikes?

And…

Which vehicle or vehicles will you be using?

You may require a bike rack for your motorhome?

We are happy to advise you on any of the above here at Telford Towbars.

Call us now on:  +44 (0)1952 608750

Another question before you start looking is how are you planning to carry the bikes?

  1. On the top of the vehicle?
  2. Off the back of the vehicle?
  3. Does your car have a vehicle hitch?

There are many factors to consider, and one of the most important things is the value of your bike. There is no point in risking a cheap bike car rack if your bike is worth a few thousand pounds!

Bikes vary so much in cost, style, size and weight all these need to be considered.

The main types of bike rack are roof-mounted, boot or trunk-mounted and towbar or hitch-mounted.

Your one-stop destination to choose from the best bike racks for family car rides and solo adventures

Thule Pro Ride- 598

Thule Pro Ride- 598

This is one of the best bike racks for cars currently in the UK.

Why Choose Thule Pro Ride- 598?

  • Automatically positions your bike when you secure it, thanks to the uniquely designed frame holder and wheel tray
  • Pressure is spread via large, soft claw pads that adapt to your bike’s frame tubes – minimizing the risk of frame damage
  • Quick and easy bike securing – the torque limiter dial controls the force going into the bike frame with a clear sign of correct mounting
  • Safe mounting – your bike is prevented from falling thanks to the claw’s extended lower jaw
  • Stable wheels – firmly fixed in smartly designed wheel holders with diagonal quick-release wheel straps
  • Easy, tool-free interface for switching the bike rack from one side of your car to the other
  • Pre-assembled, no tools required
  • Locks the bike to the bike rack and the bike rack to the roof racks (locks included)

The Thule ProrRide is a great choice and is ideal if your bike has mudguards, because rack wont interfere with them which is different to those bike racks that hold the bike by the wheels.

You do have to clamp directly onto the down tube bike, however the jaws have been designed to minimize the risk of damage.

RockyMounts TomaHawk roof rack

This hauls one bike and requires a base bar system.

If you have a Thule or other base bar system or you have a vehicle that already has factory cross bars. The RockyMounts versatile TomaHawk upright bike rack is really ideal.

This bike rack is very versatile and it can haul all sort of bikes including kids bikes.

Loading a bike onto the rack is quite easy because RockyMounts roof racks include tabs so the wheel straps are kept out of the way.

Loading a bike is relatively easy since RockyMounts includes tabs to keep the rack’s wheel straps out of the way.

A disadvantage maybe that the lock on the base rack doesn’t rate as a top scorer.

Storage wise it folds down well.

Thule EasyFold XT 2

RockyMounts TomaHawk roof rack

Many e-bikes are just too heavy to lift onto a car roof or load into a hatchback. This clever – but very expensive – rack might be the answer to your problems if your car has a tow ball. Being low to the ground it’s a lot easier to lift e-bikes or heavy mountain bikes into place. They are held in position using adjustable and removable arms with clamps which click loudly when at the correct tension, so you won’t damage expensive frames. The whole assembly can be tilted out of the way of your rear tailgate at the press of a foot pedal, so you can still access the boot.

The cleverest feature of the XT 2 is its ability to fold up for easy storage in a garage or shed – there’s even a built-in carrying handle to make it easier to move around. Its big brother, the XT 3, even has a wheel so you don’t even need to lift it. The design includes built-in rear lights and a number plate holder.

Why Choose Thule EasyFold XT 2?

  • Fully foldable for convenient mounting, handling and storage
  • High load capacity enabling transport of e-bikes and heavy mountain bikes
  • Easy mounting of bikes through detachable bike arms with lockable Thule AcuTight torque limiter knobs that click when optimal torque is reached
  • Large distance between wheel holders enabling transport of sturdy bikes with large wheel bases
  • Adjustable pump buckles with extra-long wheel straps for easy fastening of wheels (up to 4.7″ wheels) enabling transport of fat bikes
  • Easy trunk access even with bikes mounted, thanks to smart foot pedal tilt
  • Easy mounting and adjustment of the bike rack before closing the tightening handle, thanks to the towbar coupling’s initial stability
  • Ergonomic transport of the bike rack thanks to the integrated carrying handles
  • Pre-assembled, no tools required
  • Lock your bikes to the bike rack and your bike rack to the towbar (locks included)

The Menabo Carriers

Finally, we recommend the Menabo Carriers these are available in various sizes for carrying up to four bikes;

Alcor Product Image

Why Choose Menabo Carriers?

  • ALCOR Towbar mounted bike racks E bike compatible
  • Suitable for E-Bikes or FAT Bikes
  • Tilts to give you access to the boot of the car, using the pedal at the front of the carrier
  • Featuring Rapid-lock, which allows you to easily fit the carrier to the towball and lock it to protect it from theft
  • Steel frame with aluminium channels
  • City Crash Tested
  • Sliding straps for a quick fixing to secure the wheels to the carrier
  • Arms are provided to secure each bike to the support bar
  • Each jaw arm is padded to protect the bike frame
  • Modern chrome UK specified lights also included

Have a look to see if we have the right one for you?

https://telfordtowbars.co.uk/shop/?s=thule+easy+fold&post_type=product

 That’s it for our list of the best car bike racks in UK. We hope you found this post helpful and that it has given you a good idea of what to look for when purchasing your own bike rack. If you have any questions or would like some help finding the perfect product for your needs, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us here at Telford Towbars. We offer a wide range of car bike carriers and accessories, all of which are available for purchase on our website. Thanks for reading!

Check out our website Or Call us today on +44 (0)1952 608750.

Telford Towbar - BLOG Social Media Templates What is a multiplexed CAN Bussed system

What is a Multiplexed CAN Bussed System?

With new sophisticated safety systems and features being incorporated into today’s vehicles, manufacturers have had to re-think the way in which these systems can communicate to each other effectively. “CANbus systems” are therefore becoming much more common in today’s vehicles than previous analogue “wiring looms”. But what are the differences between the two systems, and what are the advantages…

CAN stands for “Controlled Area Network“.

Originally developed in the early 1980’s by the Robert Bosch corporation, for automotive applications. The use of Can bussed systems allows the manufacturers of automotive vehicles to seriously reduce the cost in vehicle construction by incorporating CAN technology. The older technologies consisted of many metres of heavy cable combined with switches, relays and fuses. This proved heavy and expensive, so the creation of a CAN network now consisted of fewer wires and control units communicating through a single pair of twisted wires as the transmission medium and because CAN’s are now used in such huge volumes, all the components are extremely affordable. Its high transfer rate and high transmitter reliability, as well as the ability to recognise data error, makes it ideal in electrical noisy environment

In automotive CAN applications, the instrument panel, power windows, body accessories and even many sensors and actuators all have their own individual mini-control unit. All the units, known technically as ‘nodes’, communicate with each other through a single pair of wires. These are twisted together to ensure minimum interference and is broadly known as the ‘data bus’.

All the data on the bus is addressed to a specific node or group of nodes by function, not location. The relevant nodes respond to a particular pre-programmed protocol. For example, the vehicle speed sensor will put its data on the bus, and every other control unit that needs vehicle speed information will receive it directly without having to go to an alternative central control unit.

Because there are multiple units sharing a single bus, every data package includes a priority code. This will ensure, for instance, that if the ABS control unit and the lighting unit both send a message to the BCM (Body Control Module), the critical ABS system message gets to go first.

CAN technology will significantly reduce the number of connector pins and wires in the vehicle. With extra ‘blank’ connectors built into the network loop, or with a splice kit for adding connectors, nodes can be added on the production line (or even aftermarket) without running a new wiring harness. However, designers have built in more than one network on the vehicle, linked by ‘gateways’ where appropriate. The mission-critical nodes will be linked on a high-speed Class C network that can operate in virtual real-time. Less critical items, such as the instrument panel, lighting systems will use a slower Class B network, and ‘occasionally used’ body accessories, such as power windows are likely to use a Class A network.

*Activated driver assistance systems inform the driver about all relevant data being transferred around the vehicle – the corresponding display is then activated either in the instrument display or on a centre panel display. Computers for engine and transmission control or for lighting system management monitor the vehicle using the data transmitted via the CAN bus. The systems no longer operate in isolation alongside one another, but can now quickly react to the information from one another. The CAN bus is an optimal solution for managing all vehicle electrical and electronic functions.

As a result, effective fault monitoring and diagnosis of the systems are integrated into the CAN bus, defects can be localized more quickly and even temporarily compensated for by corresponding secondary systems. For example, a faulty tail light function can be temporarily replaced by a brake light bulb. The driver would instantly be informed of the failure in order to address the problem.

*Activated driver assistance system is hugely relevant for the towing customer.

Particular features such as ‘Trailer Stability Programs’ (TSP) are now being introduced and currently installed in nearly ALL new VAG vehicles, BMW X series and the newly produced GM vehicles. The alarming thing about these systems, are that they are a incredibly easy feature to install and activate when towing. With a change to the existing ESP, ( Electronic Stability Program) the vehicle is able to correct a ‘snake’ in a trailer or caravan. These systems are dormant in the software of the vehicle and brought into operation when the car detects a trailer connected.

How does the vehicle know a trailer is connected?

This happens in a number of ways but the most common method is a signal generated by the towing module, which is recognised by the central computer. The signal is sent when a towing plug is inserted into the socket. The vehicle specific ‘Towing Electrics’ can also activate other features associated with towing. For systems such as TSP to operate it is essential to have a towbar wiring kit installation which communicates directly on the CAN bus.

With technology constantly being refined and improved, towing electrics have become as vital as any other electrical system in terms of safety. Therefore, it is CRITICAL to MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE.

The alternative is to either choose the cheaper universal towing electrics solution or possibly worse, have this chosen for you by a towbar installer. This decision could affect every aspect of the safety of your vehicle and that of other road users.

REMEMBER: Choosing a universal by-pass electric installation WILL NOT allow certain safety systems to function!

Why not take a look at our range of vehicle specific Towbar wiring kits in our online store click here https://telfordtowbars.co.uk/shop/product-category/right-connections-towing-electrics-vehicle-specific-towbar-electrics/

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