2012 Ford Explorer Towing Products

Essential 2012 Ford Explorer Towing Products

Carquest Premium – Trailer Connector Kit (Part No.TCA1288)

Trailer Connector Kit

from

$62.99
CARQUEST premium engine management products provide the right products for a wide range of domestic and import applications. Delivering the highest performance and durability under demanding conditions.
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CURT – Replacement OE 7-Way RV Blade Socket (Plugs into USCAR) (Part No.55415)

Replacement OE 7-Way RV Blade Socket (Plugs into USCAR)

from

$20.99
Like trailer hitches and ball mounts, electrical connectors range all over the board in shape, size and capability, but no matter what your trailer’s electrical functions are, you need a solid connection to keep the power flowing and ensure safety on the road. CURT electrical connectors are designed and manufactured to give you a reliable connection every time you plug in your trailer. This 7-way RV blade connector is designed to plug into a USCAR socket and supply power for tail lights, turn signals, electric trailer brakes, a 12-volt battery, reverse lights and brake lights, as well as a ground connection. It is intended to be a replacement trailer connector, plugging into a standard USCAR socket (see application info to verify fitment with your vehicle). It features rust-free black plastic construction and comes with a spring-loaded cover to keep out dust and water. This 7-way RV blade connector is a female-end socket, specifically designed for the vehicle side of the connection.

Product Features:
  • Plugs into USCAR socket to provide 7-way RV blade trailer wiring connector
  • Simple plug-and-play design eliminates the need for cutting or splicing
  • 7-way connects tail, brake, reverse, turn signals, brakes and auxiliary power
  • Spring-loaded dust cover keeps connector clean when not in use
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CURT – Custom Wiring Connector (4-Way Flat Output; OEM Tow Package Required) (Part No.55241)

Custom Wiring Connector (4-Way Flat Output; OEM Tow Package Required)

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$26.49
CURT custom wiring connectors are the easiest way to outfit your vehicle with a CURT trailer wiring connection. They are built with some of the most advanced technology in the industry, and each one is custom-fitted to work with a specific make and model. Some automotive manufacturers install a special socket on the vehicle to be used for vehicle-to-trailer wiring. Although this special socket is not equipped on every vehicle, a CURT custom wiring connector — also called a T-connector — utilizes the socket for simple, stress-free installation. Rather than requiring you to cut, splice and solder into your vehicle’s wiring system, the custom wiring connector uses a single OEM-compatible plug and instantly provides a standard, universal vehicle-to-trailer wiring connection, typically in the form a 4-way flat. All CURT custom wiring connectors are made vehicle-specific for the easiest possible installation and the best fit. This particular plug-in connector provides a 4-way flat socket and is designed to be a custom wiring option for certain years of the Ford Explorer, Ford Ranger, Mercury Mountaineer and Mazda B2500, B3000 and B4000 (factory tow package required; to verify your vehicle compatibility, see application info). It comes with all necessary hardware to establish a solid connection. It also comes with a dust cover to keep the connector socket clean when not in use. To ensure long-lasting reliability, all CURT custom wiring connectors are thoroughly tested for optimal functionality. Stress is the last thing you should feel when towing a trailer — whether you’re hauling your RV to that favorite camping destination, your ATVs up to the hunting grounds or your fishing boat to the new hidden hotspot. At CURT, we think your towing equipment should add to the enjoyment of your experience, not detract from it.

Product Features:
  • Plugs into existing OEM vehicle socket to provide a 4-way flat socket
  • Simple plug-and-play design eliminates the need for cutting or splicing
  • 4-way flat output connects tail lights, brake lights and turn signals
  • Dust cover included to keep connector clean when not in use
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Hopkins – Premium Brake Controller with Smart LED Display (Part No.47225)

Premium Brake Controller with Smart LED Display

from

$73.99
The 47225 brake control utilizes time based actuation for applying braking power to the trailer brakes. An LED indicator will glow displaying braking intensity. The brighter the glow, the more braking force is being applied to the trailer brakes. Most states and provinces require a trailer brake controller based on the weight of the trailer.

Product Features:
  • Smart LED Display Shows Trailer Connection
  • Braking Function/Short circuit Notification
  • Changes Green To Yellow As Power Increases
  • Plug In Simple Feature
  • Intuitive vertical manual slide
  • Short Proof Protected
  • Controls up to 4 trailer brakes
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Hopkins – 47284, Reliance Plug-In Simple!® Trailer Brake Control (Part No.47284)

47284, Reliance Plug-In Simple!® Trailer Brake Control

from

$78.99
The 47284 brake control utilizes time based actuation for applying braking power to the trailer brakes. The built-in digital display makes it easy for setting braking intensity. The braking force to the trailer can easily be adjusted from 5% to 99% for setting the exact percentage of brake power desired. Most states and provinces require a trailer brake controller based on the weight of the trailer.

Product Features:
  • Time-based braking
  • Mounts at any angle
  • Percentage of braking power shown
  • Plug In Simple Feature
  • Intuitive vertical manual slide
  • Short Proof Protected
  • Controls up to 4 trailer brakes
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Hopkins – 47297, InSIGHT Plug In Simple!® Trailer Brake Control (Part No.47297)

47297, InSIGHT Plug In Simple!® Trailer Brake Control

from

$124.99
New trucks are becoming more car-like every year making it almost impossible to install a traditional brake controller. With the InSIGHT brake control, you gain the flexibility needed to make a simple, no tools required installation in any vehicle. This three part system allows the driver to bring the display back in sight where they can see what is going on as well as bringing the controls within a comfortable reach whether you are right or left handed. Mount the brain of the system out of sight. So, no more banging your knee every time you get in and out of your vehicle. This proportional brake controller creates stops that are safe and smooth, making you feel like you aren’t even towing a trailer! With easy to set gain adjustments and a digital display will make setting this brake control quick and easy. Seven On-the-fly sensitivity settings allows you to adjust for trailer weights and weather at the press of a button. Most states and provinces require a trailer brake controller based on the weight of the trailer.

Product Features:
  • Proportional braking
  • No Tools Required Installation, no drilling required
  • Percentage of braking power shown
  • 7 Sensitivity Settings for Advanced Braking Control
  • Intuitive vertical manual slide
  • Short Proof Protected
  • Controls up to 8 trailer brakes
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Draw-tite Hitches – Class III Hitch (Part No.75437)

Class III Hitch

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$306.99
Class III Trailer Hitch

Product Features:
  • 2″ Square Receiver Tube Opening
  • Max-Frame receivers are designed for trucks, vans and sport utility vehicles
  • Neat Appearance, All Frame Attachments
  • A-Coat Base with Black Powder Coat Finish
  • Rated up to 5,000 lbs. (GTW) Weight Carrying (WC)
  • Rated up to 8,000 lbs. (GTW) Weight Distributing (WD)
  • Solid All-Welded Construction for Maximum Strength and Safety
  • Custom Built According to Manufacturer & Model Year
  • Ensures Perfect Fit and Top Towing Performance
  • Computer-Aided Design and Fatigue Stress Testing
  • Designed to Withstand Road Abuse Within Specified Capacities
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CURT – Trailer Hitch: 2" Receiver, 4,000 LB Capacity, Installs as low as 30 Mins (Part No.13386)

Trailer Hitch: 2" Receiver, 4,000 LB Capacity, Installs as low as 30 Mins

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$194.99
Whatever your task at hand — whether it’s launching that boat before daybreak, setting up your camper before the rush or getting a final load to the dump before close — CURT class 3 trailer hitches offer the strength needed for serious towing. They make it easy to hitch up and Bring It, offering a vehicle-specific fit and the weight capacity to handle a variety of trailers. Custom class 3 hitches are the most common type of receiver hitch for pickup trucks and SUVs. Because of their weight range, they are also found on full-size cars, crossovers and minivans. Each custom-fit class 3 hitch package is made for vehicle-specific mounting. This particular kit fits certain years of the Ford Explorer and Ford Police Interceptor Utility (see application info to verify vehicle compatibility). It provides a weight carrying capacity of 4,000 lbs. GTW and 400 lbs. TW. It is also compatible with a weight distribution hitch for level towing and a rating of 5,000 lbs. WD and 500 lbs. WDTW. CURT class 3 trailer hitches are typically used to attach and haul utility trailers, boat trailers, campers, snowmobile or ATV haulers and more (NOTE: Never exceed the lowest-rated towing component). Each class 3 hitch has a 2″ receiver tube and is tested in accordance with SAE J684 for safety. To ensure that CURT class 3 receiver hitches have what it takes for serious trailering, they are designed using a hands-on approach and are constructed with rugged, high-strength steel and precise welding. We also protect our class 3 hitches in a co-cured finish of liquid A-coat and black powder coat for superior resistance to rust, chipping and UV damage.

Product Features:
  • Rated to 4,000 lbs. gross trailer weight and 400 lbs. tongue weight
  • Compatible with weight distribution hitch (5,000 lbs. WD / 500 lbs. WDTW)
  • Engineered with a vehicle-specific design for a custom fit
  • Tested for safety in accordance with SAE J684
  • Precisely welded for superior strength and fit
  • Protected by a durable high-gloss black powder coat finish
  • Co-cured in a rust-resistant liquid A-coat, inside and out
  • Equipped with an open-back receiver for easy cleaning
  • Made in USA (may include imported hardware)
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CURT – Front Mount Hitch with 2in. Receiver (Part No.31540)

Front Mount Hitch with 2in. Receiver

from

$232.99
A CURT front trailer hitch allows you to use the front end of your vehicle for a variety of towing applications. They can be used for mounting a winch, a snow plow, a number of towing accessories and can even be used for some trailering applications. When space is limited, a front trailer hitch is commonly used to hold a cargo carrier, freeing up space inside the vehicle for extra cargo and making the rear mount receiver available to pull a trailer. At the boat ramp, your boat trailer can be hitched up to the front receiver hitch, giving you better control over the trailer as you launch. Some of the other accessories that can be used with a front tow hitch are the CURT winch mount, step pad, license plate holder, spare tire mount, skid shield and tow hooks. All CURT front trailer hitches provide a useful receiver tube to accept a 2″ x 2″ shank, and they are commonly used on trucks, vans and SUVs. This front trailer hitch is rated for 5,000 lbs. GTW and 500 lbs. TW. It also has a straight-line pull rating of 9,000 lbs. It is designed to be a custom trailer hitch for certain years of the Ford Explorer (to verify your vehicle compatibility, see application info). It comes with all necessary hardware for a complete installation and is backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

Product Features:
  • Rated to 5,000 lbs. gross trailer weight and 500 lbs. tongue weight
  • Compatible with a tow hook or shackle mount (9,000 lbs. straight-line pull)
  • Engineered with a vehicle-specific design for a custom fit
  • Provides a convenient mount for hitch accessories
  • Ideal for attaching a snow plow, cargo carrier or other front hitch mount
  • Allows for easy maneuvering of a trailer into a tight spot
  • Concealed main body for OE look and seamless integration with the vehicle
  • Tested for safety in accordance with SAE J684
  • Precisely welded for superior strength and fit
  • Protected by a durable black powder coat finish
  • Co-cured in a rust-resistant liquid A-coat, inside and out
  • Equipped with an open-back receiver for easy cleaning
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Husky Towing – Compatible With Controllers With A Connector, 2 Plug (Part No.31860)

Compatible With Controllers With A Connector, 2 Plug

from

$18.99
Husky custom wiring harnesses fits all Husky brake controls that have a similar shaped plug. Simply attach the adapter to the Husky brake control. The safest or easiest way to wire a brake control to your tow-prepped vehicle.

Product Features:
  • The Safest Or Easiest Way To Wire A Brake Control To Your Tow-Prepped Vehicle
  • Simply Attach The Adapter To The Brake Control
  • Constructed with durable, quality materials, and is rigorously tested to industry safety standards
  • Easy to install
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Carquest Premium – Multi Purpose Connector (Part No.PTA2944)

Multi Purpose Connector

from

$61.99
CARQUEST premium engine management products provide the right products for a wide range of domestic and import applications. Delivering the highest performance and durability under demanding conditions.
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Hopkins – Brake Control Connector (Part No.47705)

Brake Control Connector

from

$11.29
Reduce your installation time to minutes! Many of today’s tow vehicles come with an O.E.M. connector harness under the dash. This harness simply splices onto the tow vehicle and then plugs into the Hopkins brake control to complete the install.

Product Features:
  • Blunt Cut Wires Allows For Installation Of Any Brake Control
  • 36 in. Wire Length
  • OEM. Connector Plugs Directly Into Tow Vehicle
  • For Vehicles With A Factory Tow Package
  • Includes Step-By-Step Instructions And Diagrams
  • Includes All Necessary Mounting Hardware
  • For Use On Any 12 Volt Negative Ground System
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CURT – Trailer Brake Controller Harness (Part No.51322)

Trailer Brake Controller Harness

from

$11.49
A CURT Quick Plug brake controller wiring adapter is one of the fastest and easiest ways to plug your brake controller into your vehicle. It requires no cutting or splicing! Just insert the vehicle-specific plug end into the OEM vehicle’s factory brake controller socket. The other end plugs into your CURT trailer brake controller. Quick Plug harnesses are available for a variety of vehicles and are unique for each vehicle application to provide the easiest possible installation. This particular brake controller harness fits certain years of the Ford Bronco, E150, E250, E350, E450 Club Wagon, Econoline, Excursion, Expedition, Explorer, Flex, F150, F150 Heritage, F250, F250 HD, F350 Super Duty, Police Interceptor Utility, Windstar, Land Rover LR3, LR4, Range Rover, Evoque, Sport, Lincoln Mark LT, MKT, Navigator and Mercury Mountaineer (see application info to verify fitment). CURT Quick Plug harnesses are compatible with most CURT brake controls and can be used as a replacement or for a new control unit installation. They’re also great for towing all types of trailers with electric brakes. For versatile mounting of your trailer brake controller this Quick Plug wire harness measures two feet long. It also features a slit loom sleeve to keep the wires protected against crushing and abrasions. CURT Quick Plug wire plug-in adapters are made with 12-gauge wires for a reliable connection and braking, and come with zip ties to keep the harness contained and out of sight.

Product Features:
  • Allows a CURT trailer brake controller to be plugged into OEM socket
  • Quick plug harness installs with plug-and-play convenience
  • Wire colors match standard brake controller harnesses
  • Includes 24″ of 12 gauge wire for flexible installation
  • Slit-loom sleeve keeps wires contained and protected
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Hopkins – Trailer Tail Light Converter: Protects Vehicle Electronics, Powers up to 5.0A (Part No.46255)

Trailer Tail Light Converter: Protects Vehicle Electronics, Powers up to 5.0A

from

$70.99
Many of today’s vehicles do not possess the electrical means for powering the extra voltage requirements of a trailer. Power Taillight Converters units completely isolate the tow vehicle from trailer malfunctions. Power is taken directly from the battery for isolation and brighter trailer tail lights.

Product Features:
  • For vehicles equipped with independent bulb turn signals or common bulb systems
  • Protects tow vehicle electronics from wiring shorts
  • Includes 14 ga. power lead wire, fuse & fuse assembly, splices, and cable ties
  • Powers up to 5.0 amps per output
  • Receives power directly from the battery
  • Includes vehicle side 4 flat
  • Includes dust cover and grease packet to prevent corrosion
  • Includes Dust Cover And Grease Packet To Prevent Corrosion
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Husky Towing – 4-Way Flat And 7 Rav, With Dust Cover/ Cable Ties And Grease Packet (Part No.13092)

4-Way Flat And 7 Rav, With Dust Cover/ Cable Ties And Grease Packet

from

$51.99
Husky Towing Products offers a complete line of hitches, brake assemblies, jacks, sway control solutions, and essential towing accessories. Each Husky product is precision engineered, constructed with durable, quality materials, and is rigorously tested to industry safety standards. Hitches are what Husky does best. From Class III receivers, to 5th wheels, to weight distribution hitches, Husky hitches help keep your towables safe and secure. Husky also offers accessories to accompany your hitch including hitch balls, shanks, locks, and more Electric tongue jacks, electrical and brake products, and cargo carriers are just a few other categories that make any towing experience easier.

Product Features:
  • Husky Branded Replacement Parts Ensure Proper Fit And Function
  • Weatherproof Design
  • Constructed with durable, quality materials, and is rigorously tested to industry safety standards
  • Easy to install
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Hopkins – Plug-and-Play Towing Wiring Kit with OEM Connectors (Part No.41155)

Plug-and-Play Towing Wiring Kit with OEM Connectors

from

$25.99
Dont splice onto your vehicles factory wiring harness. Simply plug in this Hopkins? vehicle wiring kit featuring exact OEM matching connectors for a perfect weather-tight fit. This kit includes the accessories needed to get you towing faster.

Product Features:
  • Plug-In Simple? Wiring Kit
  • Utilizes OEM Connectors For Enhanced Fit And Weatherproofing
  • Includes Vehicle Side 4 Flat
  • Corrosion Resistant Terminals
  • Impact And Corrosion Resistant
  • Includes Dust Cover And Grease Packet To Prevent Corrosion
  • Includes Step-By-Step Instructions
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CURT – Dual-Output 6/4-Way Connector (Plugs into USCAR) (Part No.55664)

Dual-Output 6/4-Way Connector (Plugs into USCAR)

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$46.49
A CURT custom wiring connector (sometimes called a T-connector) is a simple, plug-and-play electrical device that eliminates the need for cutting, splicing and soldering when installing vehicle-to-trailer wiring. Most vehicles do not come ready to tow. Unless your vehicle has a towing package, it is probably not equipped with a trailer wiring connector. This is where CURT’s custom wiring connectors come into play. A custom wiring connector uses a single original equipment plug to plug into a special socket provided by your vehicle. Though this option is not available on every vehicle, some automotive manufacturers design their vehicles to be easily equipped for towing by supplying a socket, integrated into the vehicle’s electrical system, to readily accept a custom wiring connector. With a CURT custom wiring connector, there is no need to tap into the taillight assembly because a special socket is already provided. This special custom wiring connector actually provides two connector sockets for a multipurpose option. It plugs into an OEM USCAR connector and offers a 4-way flat and 6-way round connector (see application info to verify fitment with your vehicle). It also comes with a mounting bracket for easy installation. CURT custom wiring connectors are designed to be long-lasting and simple to install. They come with dust covers to keep your connector clean when not in use.

Product Features:
  • Plugs into USCAR socket to provide 4-way and 6-way trailer wiring connectors
  • Fits USCAR-equipped vehicles with factory tow plugs only
  • Simple plug-and-play design eliminates the need for cutting or splicing
  • 4-way flat output connects tail lights, brake lights and turn signals
  • 6-way round socket adds connection for electric brakes and auxiliary power
  • Dust covers included to keep connectors clean when not in use
  • Slit loom keeps wires contained and well protected
  • Metal bracket securely mounts wiring to the vehicle or trailer hitch
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Hopkins – 40955, Multi-Tow® FORD / GM 7 Blade and 4 Flat Wiring Kit (Part No.40955)

40955, Multi-Tow® FORD / GM 7 Blade and 4 Flat Wiring Kit

from

$39.99
Tow more than one trailer? Multi-Tow® design feature adds multiple towing options from one connector by providing sockets for towing both 7 blade and 4 flat trailers. This connector is Plug-In Simple!® with no cutting or splicing, saving you time by utilizing an OEM connector to create an exact fit for easy installation and maximum weatherproofing.

Product Features:
  • Multi-Tow® provides multiple towing options from one connector
  • Plug-In Simple!® Wiring Kit
  • Utilizes OEM connectors create an exact fit and maximum weatherproofing
  • Includes mounting bracket and hardware
  • Impact and corrosion resistant
  • Fits in standard 7 blade bracket
  • Includes Step-By-Step Instructions
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KAI – Bumper Grille Insert (Part No.FO1137100C)

Bumper Grille Insert

from

$134.99
New CAPA Certified Standard Replacement Rear Bumper Cover Tow Hook Hole Trim Molding

Product Features:
  • Made Of Polypropylene
  • Meets All Federal Motor Safety Standards
  • No Drilling Needed For Installation
  • No Modifications Needed For Installation
  • Direct Fit Replacement For Your Vehicle
  • Same Form Fit And Function As OE
  • Check Out The Large Selection Of Parts Available For Your Vehicle
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Dorman – Trailer Hitch Electrical Connector Plug (Part No.924-308)

Trailer Hitch Electrical Connector Plug

from

$36.49
This trailer hitch plug is designed to match the fit and function of the original part on specified vehicles. Made of quality materials, it is engineered for reliable performance.

Product Features:
  • Direct replacement – this trailer hitch plug matches the fit and function of the factory part on specified years, makes and models
  • Ideal solution – this plug is a reliable replacement for an original part that is missing or has failed due to fatigue
  • Durable construction – this part is made from quality materials to ensure reliable performance and long service life
  • Trustworthy quality – backed by team of product experts in the United States and more than a century of automotive experience
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2012 Ford Explorer Towing Products

You count on your 2012 Ford Explorer to run right. That means taking care of it with regular maintenance, necessary repairs, and the right parts. Advance Auto Parts can help with all of that thanks to our extensive inventory of trusted Towing Products. With 29 Towing Products ranging in price from $11.49 to $236.99, you’re sure to find everything you need for your 2012 Ford Explorer.

Brands matter. If you want to shop a specific Towing Products brand, we stock 6 different brands like Hopkins, CURT, and Husky. 2012 Ford Explorer Towing Products start as low as $11.49!

One of the best ways to find top quality OEM or aftermarket Towing Products is by asking professionals. Short of that, you can shop with confidence thanks to our 378 extensive product reviews on 2012 Ford Explorer Towing Products. Some of the top-rated Towing Products products we carry are Time Based Brake Control – Digital with 3.0 stars.

Did we mention you can order your Towing Products from our online catalog and have them shipped right to your garage? Or, if you feel like seeing the parts first-hand, search for your nearest Advance Auto Parts location above and pick up in-store when you’re ready. Browse our full Towing Products inventory for your 2012 Ford Explorer below to get started!

Top-Rated Towing Products Brands For Your 2012 Ford Explorer

Trusted Towing Products OEM and aftermarket product brands are what Advance Auto Parts specializes in. The brands we work with are sure to keep that 2012 Ford Explorer running right for years to come. In our inventory you’ll find brands like Hopkins, CURT, Husky, and even more.

Popular CURT Towing Products

You’ll find popular CURT brand products across Trailer Wiring. All are waiting to get your 2012 Ford Explorer back on the road. Some of the top-rated CURT products in these categories are:
Custom Wiring Harness (4-Way Flat Output)
from $81.99
(1)
Custom Wiring Harness (4-Way Flat Output)
Trailer Wiring Kits

Top-Rated Hopkins Towing Products


If Hopkins are what you’re looking for, our inventory holds plenty. We stock Hopkins brand Towing Products for your 2012 Ford Explorer, and some of our most reviewed Hopkins parts include:
Premium Brake Controller with Smart LED Display
from $73.99
(20)
Premium Brake Controller with Smart LED Display
Trailer Brake Controls
40955, Multi-Tow® FORD / GM 7 Blade and 4 Flat Wiring Kit
from $39.99
(20)
40955, Multi-Tow® FORD / GM 7 Blade and 4 Flat Wiring Kit
Trailer Wiring Harness
47284, Reliance Plug-In Simple!® Trailer Brake Control
from $78.99
(19)
47284, Reliance Plug-In Simple!® Trailer Brake Control
Trailer Brake Controls

FAQs for 2012 Ford Explorer Towing Products

What are the most purchased Towing Products for the 2012 Ford Explorer?

Out of 29 Towing Products for the 2012 Ford Explorer, the most popular in our inventory are:
47297, InSIGHT Plug In Simple!® Trailer Brake Control
from $124.99
This product is not rated
47297, InSIGHT Plug In Simple!® Trailer Brake Control
Trailer Brake Controls
Dual-Output 7/4-Way Connector (Plugs into USCAR)
from $31.49
This product is not rated
Dual-Output 7/4-Way Connector (Plugs into USCAR)
Trailer Wiring Harness

What are the top-rated 2012 Ford Explorer Towing Products?

Top-rated Towing Products for your 2012 Ford Explorer based on customer reviews/ratings are:
Time Based Brake Control - Digital
from $84.99
(1)
Time Based Brake Control – Digital
“This unit is easy to install and configure. it would work well on two brakes. if that is your purpose then i would give it 4.5 stars. however, i am us”