I wanna install a retractable towbar on my 2012 CX5. I mean I've got OEM parts, but the electric kit is a little confusing. The control box I have is a C830-V8-921A (2 plugs), but I expected the CAN Bus version (C850-V8-921 or C831-V8-V921) which has just one plug. Wiring fits, so I guess it's not wrong. But why wouldn't they use the CAN Bus setup? I checked manuals already but I haven't found help. If anyone here has installed an OEM or aftermarket harness for a towbar, I wanna ask. How was the wiring process?
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CAN Bus or not?
- Thread starter Dua Lipa
- Start date
Supreme_Maz
New member
- Joined
- Jun 10, 2025
- Messages
- 4
Mazda likely used different control boxes across markets or production variations for the 2012 CX-5. Your control box with 2 plugs is an older type compared to the single-plug CAN bus versions. While it's simpler, your kit probably relies on more traditional wiring which explains the extra plug for separate signals. Aftermarket harnesses often involve splicing or dedicated power feeds. Carefully follow your kit's wiring diagrams and check your fuse box for towbar-specific fuses.
My cousin and I did an aftermarket harness on his and the wiring was the fiddly part more than the towbar itself. The plugs didn't always match what we expected either, but once everything was seated it worked fine. If your connectors fit and the box powers up, you're probably good