Tesla Model X Owners & Service Manuals

Tesla Model X: Electrical Connections

Regulations require all trailers to be equipped with tail lights, brake lights, side marker lights, and turn signals. To provide power for trailer lighting, a built-in seven-way wiring connector (SAE J560) is attached near the tow hitch. Most trailer wiring plugs can be attached to this connector.

Towing and Accessories

  1. Reverse Lights (Purple)
  2. Low Voltage Power (Red or Black)
  3. Right Turn Signal and Brake Light (Green)
  4. Brake Controller Output (Blue)
  5. Tail Lights and Running Lights (Brown)
  6. Left Turn Signal and Brake Light (Yellow)
  7. Ground (White)

NOTE: It is the driver's responsibility to ensure that all electrical connections are working, and all trailer lights are operating before and during towing. Model X does not detect faulty trailer lights. You must perform manual checks.

NOTE: Loss of trailer lights when towing may be the result of a fault in the trailer wiring or excessive power consumption by the lights connected to the trailer output(s). When this occurs, a red Trailer Mode icon appears on the touchscreen. Fix any issues with the wiring and/or reduce the number of lights connected to the trailer output(s), then toggle Trailer Mode off and on again.

Plugging trailer wiring into the Model X electrical connector automatically engages Trailer Mode (see Trailer Mode).

WARNING: The brake controller output operates only when a brake controller is installed (see Trailer Brakes).

WARNING: Use only the electrical connection designed by Tesla. Do not attempt to directly splice or attempt to connect trailer electrical wiring using any other method. Doing so can damage the vehicle electrical system and cause malfunctions.

CAUTION: Always ensure that the trailer electrical cable does not contact or drag on the ground and there is enough slack in the cable to allow for turns.

Impact on Range

Towing a trailer and carrying accessories increases vehicle weight and drag. As a result, driving range can decrease significantly. Although Trip Planner attempts to adjust estimates based on Trailer Mode, actual energy consumption may vary. Plan trip length and charging destinations accordingly.