Towing 2012 w/Mercedes GL350 Bluetec

[jevering]

Help!
I have a 2012 GL350 and just purchased a 2012 19' International. I have he factory tow kit installed. Whenever I plug the 7-Way connector in the LED lights are slightly dim and the break lights or turn signals don't work. I hear there is a compatibility issue with the MB and the LED lights? Anyone have any ideas on what I can do? Also, do I need a tow break control or will the factor tow kit be sufficient?
Thanks!
Jim

[murreywalker]

Originally Posted by jrevering

Help!
I have a 2012 GL350 and just purchased a 2012 19' International. I have he factory tow kit installed. Whenever I plug the 7-Way connector in the LED lights are slightly dim and the break lights or turn signals don't work. I hear there is a compatibility issue with the MB and the LED lights? Anyone have any ideas on what I can do? Also, do I need a tow break control or will the factor tow kit be sufficient?
Thanks!
Jim

It is a known resistance issue between the AS's LED's and the GL's LED's (apparently there is none, or something to that effect).

However there is a fix! Go to your VW parts store and explain your problem. They will sell you a short cable (about two feet) with built in resistance and plug that cable into the GL's 7 pin, and then into your AS's. The problem will magically go away. The cost of the cable from VW is approx. $40.

[dsrtgrls]

wow. nice answer such a pleasure to experience such a direct and easy fix to a problem i think i will just keep reading it over and over. and i don't even have the problem.

[jevering]

Originally Posted by murreywalker

It is a known resistance issue between the AS's LED's and the GL's LED's (apparently there is none, or something to that effect).

However there is a fix! Go to your VW parts store and explain your problem. They will sell you a short cable (about two feet) with built in resistance and plug that cable into the GL's 7 pin, and then into your AS's. The problem will magically go away. The cost of the cable from VW is approx. $40.

Thanks Murreywalker,
I've order the cable. Discount Volkswagen Parts Thanks so much for your help! Just the answer I was hoping for.
Best,
Jim