First Impressions of Demco 9523138 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford Focus Sedan ’12 ’18
The Demco 9523138 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford Focus Sedan ’12 ’18 promises a simple, direct plug-in solution for adding tail lights to a towed vehicle, specifically the 2012-2018 Ford Focus Sedan. Demco is a respected name in towing solutions, so I had certain expectations of quality and ease of installation with this kit. This kit stands out due to its promise of eliminating the need for splicing, which can be a daunting task for many.
I recently decided to start flat-towing my 2016 Ford Focus Sedan behind my RV, opening up a world of possibilities for exploring local areas once we’ve reached our destination. The biggest hurdle was ensuring my Focus’s lights were properly synched with the RV’s, a safety requirement I wasn’t willing to compromise on. I was initially researching universal wiring kits, but the potential for error and the messy splicing involved scared me away.
Unboxing the Demco 9523138, I was immediately pleased with the clean, organized presentation. The wiring harness looked robust, and the inclusion of zip ties and a bracket for the 4-flat connector was a thoughtful touch. The build quality appeared solid, and the materials seemed durable enough to withstand the rigors of being exposed to the elements.
I considered a similar kit from Hopkins, as well as a universal kit from Curt. I chose the Demco kit due to its vehicle-specific design and the positive reviews highlighting its plug-and-play nature. The perceived ease of installation was the deciding factor, as I wanted to minimize the time spent under the car.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The kit seemed well-made and complete, but the real test would be the installation process and whether it truly lived up to its claim of being “no slicing required.”
Real-World Testing: Putting Demco 9523138 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford Focus Sedan ’12 ’18 to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Demco 9523138 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit in my garage, using basic hand tools and the included instructions. The installation took about two hours, which was longer than I anticipated, but I took my time to ensure everything was done correctly. The “no splicing” claim held true for the taillight connections; however, as noted in the product description, some cutting is required. This involved cutting and stripping the wire for the power connection to the battery.
The kit performed flawlessly during my initial test. All the lights on the Focus synchronized perfectly with the RV’s lights, indicating a successful installation. I tested the lights multiple times, including brake lights, turn signals, and running lights, to ensure everything was working as expected.
There were no immediate issues or surprises, though I did find the instructions to be somewhat vague in certain areas. Specifically, the grounding point wasn’t explicitly clear, requiring me to consult online forums for clarification.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several trips and over 2,000 miles of towing, the Demco 9523138 has held up remarkably well. I have experienced no electrical issues or malfunctions whatsoever. The connections remain secure, and the wiring hasn’t shown any signs of wear or fraying.
I routinely inspect the wiring and connections before each trip, and so far, maintenance has been minimal. I apply dielectric grease to the 4-flat connector terminals as recommended to prevent corrosion, and that seems to be doing the trick. Cleaning involves simply wiping down the wiring with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
Compared to my previous experience with a universal wiring kit on another vehicle, the Demco 9523138 is a significant improvement. The reliability and peace of mind knowing that the lights are functioning correctly are invaluable. It significantly outperforms the universal kit in terms of ease of installation and long-term reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Demco 9523138 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford Focus Sedan ’12 ’18
Specifications
- Vehicle Compatibility: Specifically designed for 2012-2018 Ford Focus Sedan models. This ensures a precise fit and optimal performance.
- Wiring Harness: Includes a pre-wired harness with a 4-flat connector. The 4-flat connector is the standard for basic towing lighting.
- Extension Cable: Contains a 48-inch 4-flat extension cable. This is critical to ensure adequate length to connect to the RV’s connector.
- Mounting Hardware: Supplied with a 4-flat bracket and (3) #8 self-tapping ground screws. Secure mounting prevents damage from road debris.
- Cable Management: Twenty (20) 15-inch cable zip ties are provided. These help keep the wiring organized and prevent it from dragging.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the ease of installation, reliability, and safety of the towed vehicle’s lighting system. The vehicle-specific design eliminates guesswork, while the quality components ensure long-lasting performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Demco 9523138 performs its job admirably. It reliably transmits the RV’s lighting signals to the towed vehicle, ensuring that brake lights, turn signals, and running lights function correctly. The clear and bright lights dramatically increase visibility and safety while towing.
The kit’s greatest strength is its ease of installation, thanks to the vehicle-specific design. However, the vague instructions and the need to cut and strip the power wire are minor weaknesses. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a towed vehicle wiring kit.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Demco 9523138 is excellent. The materials used are durable and weather-resistant, ensuring long-lasting performance. The wiring harness is well-insulated, and the connectors are robust.
The kit is relatively user-friendly, though the instructions could be improved. A novice may require additional research or assistance during installation.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction and high-quality materials, the Demco 9523138 should last for many years with proper care. I anticipate it will outlast the time I spend towing my Focus.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and application of dielectric grease to the connector terminals. The materials resist corrosion effectively.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Demco 9523138 comes with all the necessary accessories for a standard installation, including the wiring harness, extension cable, mounting bracket, ground screws, and zip ties. No aftermarket accessories are essential for basic functionality.
While not strictly a customization option, users may choose to upgrade the 4-flat connector to a more robust 7-way connector if they require additional functionality, such as connecting a brake controller. This would, however, require more extensive wiring modifications.
Pros and Cons of Demco 9523138 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford Focus Sedan ’12 ’18
Pros
- Vehicle-specific design ensures a perfect fit and easy installation.
- No splicing required for taillight connections simplifies the installation process.
- Includes all necessary hardware for a complete installation.
- Reliable and durable performance provides peace of mind while towing.
- High-quality materials resist corrosion and withstand the elements.
Cons
- Instructions could be clearer and more detailed.
- Requires cutting and stripping the power wire, which might intimidate some users.
Who Should Buy Demco 9523138 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford Focus Sedan ’12 ’18?
The Demco 9523138 is perfect for RV owners who want to flat-tow their 2012-2018 Ford Focus Sedan safely and reliably. It’s also a great option for anyone who prefers a simpler, more direct installation process without the hassle of splicing. Anyone comfortable with basic wiring tasks should find the installation manageable.
This product might not be the best choice for individuals who are completely unfamiliar with automotive wiring or those who prefer a completely plug-and-play solution without any cutting or stripping required. In those cases, professional installation might be a better option.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality 4-flat to 7-way adapter if you need to connect to an RV with a 7-way connector. Dielectric grease for the connector terminals is also highly recommended for preventing corrosion.
Conclusion on Demco 9523138 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford Focus Sedan ’12 ’18
Overall, the Demco 9523138 Towed Connector Vehicle Wiring Kit For Ford Focus Sedan ’12 ’18 is a well-designed and reliable solution for adding tail lights to a towed vehicle. It offers a significant improvement over universal wiring kits in terms of ease of installation and long-term performance. The peace of mind it provides while towing is invaluable.
At a price of $169.99, the Demco 9523138 offers excellent value for the money, considering its vehicle-specific design, high-quality components, and reliable performance. The time saved on installation and the elimination of potential wiring errors make it a worthwhile investment.
I would personally recommend the Demco 9523138 to anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-install towed vehicle wiring kit for their 2012-2018 Ford Focus Sedan. Take the plunge, hook up your Focus, and hit the road with confidence!