ISO 11446
- Updated:
- By: Lars Nuwenhof
Contents
ISO 11446 – The standard for the 13-PIN connector for trucks and trailers
Definition
ISO 11446 is the international standard for the 13-PIN connector used on 12 trailers, caravans and trailers. This modern standard is widely used in Europe for vehicles with extensive electrical functions.
Structure of the standard
The original version ISO 11446:2004 has been replaced by a two-part structure:
- ISO 11446-1:2012 - Functional requirements, dimensions and assignment
- ISO 11446-2:2012 - For vehicles with increased sealing requirements
Applications of ISO 11446
The standard is suitable for vehicles with features such as:
- Full lighting and signal transmission
- Power supply of internal consumers such as refrigerator or battery
- Semi-Trailer detection via CAN-bus
See also our step-by-step guide to trailer lighting or find out more about the regulations for trailer lighting.
Official pin assignment according to ISO 11446 - 13-PIN connector.
The overview below shows the standard PIN assignment according to ISO 11446, including colour coding.
| PIN | Function | Type | Colour |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Left-hand indicator | Signal | Yellow |
| 2 | Rear fog light | Lighting | Blue |
| 3 | Mass for PINs 1 to 8 | Mass | White |
| 4 | Right-hand indicator | Signal | Green |
| 5 | Right rear lights | Lighting | Brown |
| 6 | Brake lights | Lighting | Red |
| 7 | Rear lights left | Lighting | Black |
| 8 | Reversing lights | Lighting | Grey |
| 9 | Permanent power supply (+12V) | Power supply | Orange |
| 10 | Switched power supply | Power supply | Dark grey |
| 11 | Mass for PIN 10 | Mass | White/Black |
| 12 | Semi-Trailer detection or charging logic (CAN-bus) | Signal | Not standardised |
| 13 | Mass for PIN 9 | Mass | White/Red |
Use of PIN 12 in modern vehicles
PIN 12 was originally reserved and left unused for a long time. Since around 2018, it has been increasingly used for smart semi-trailer functions, such as:
- Detection of a coupled trailer (parking sensors, ESP adjustment)
- Charging logic for caravan batteries (fridge logic)
- Power supply dependent on driving status or engine activity
These applications are now widely implemented in almost all car brands, provided the towbar module supports CAN-bus.
Read more about CAN-bus compatibility.
Also check out these related articles:
- 7-PIN connector (12V).
- 7-PIN connector (12v).
- Difference between 12V and 24V systems
- CAN-bus solutions
- Connecting trailer lighting
- Regulations on trailer lighting
Reliable connectors and complete cable sets from TRALERT®
High-quality cabling is crucial for the trouble-free and durable installation of your ISO 11446 connectors. View our complete range of high-quality cable sets, junction boxes and connectors that meet the most stringent requirements in the transport sector.
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Author
Lars Nuwenhof
Lars is a lighting specialist at TRALERT® and responsible for the dealer portal. He writes about LED technology and helps customers with digital links and smart lighting solutions.
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