ISO 1185
- Updated:
- By: Kevin van Mierlo
Contents
ISO 1185 – The standard for the 7-PIN N (24 V) connector for trucks and trailers
Definition
ISO 1185 is the international standard for the 7-PIN N‑connector (24 V), the standard connection for lighting and signalling between trucks/tractors and semi-trailers, trailer or heavy towed equipment. This standard guarantees uniform PIN allocation, compatibility and reliability for lighting and braking systems on 24 V systems.
Wiring diagram 7-PIN N (24 V) connector according to ISO 1185
| PIN | Function | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mass (chassis / earth) | White |
| 2 | Rear/contour lights left | Black |
| 3 | Left-hand indicator | Yellow |
| 4 | Brake lights (stop light) | Red |
| 5 | Right-hand indicator | Green |
| 6 | Rear/contour lights right | Brown |
| 7 | Trailer brake signalling / backup | Blue (or according to manufacturer) |
The ISO 1185 connector is designed for basic lighting and brake signals. Reversing lights, constant power supply or additional functions fall outside the scope of this standard; for these, an additional 7-PIN ‘S’ connector (ISO 3731) or modern 15-PIN plug (ISO 12098) is required.
Where do we see ISO 1185 connectors?
The 24 V 7-PIN connector according to ISO 1185 is applied to:
- Truck and semi-trailer combinations
- Industrial trailers, flatbed trailers and heavy-duty equipment
- Agricultural tractors and towed implements on 24 V
- (Sometimes) construction and work semi-trailers within the heavy transport segment
These connectors are widely used in the truckand semi-trailer industry as they meet the technical requirements for heavier transport.
Limitations of ISO 1185
Because ISO 1185 offers only 7 poles and focuses on basic lighting and brake signals:
- Reversing lights, constant power supply or additional functions are not possible with just an ISO 1185 connector.
- Heavier or more modern trailers often require an additional 7-PIN ‘S’ connector (ISO 3731) or a combined 15-PIN connection (ISO 12098).
- In the case of LED lighting or modern CAN-bus systems, additional modules or adaptations may be required to ensure correct loading and reliability.
ISO 1185 and the evolution of trailers
Due to the increasing complexity of trailers — such as lighting, braking systems and data communication — ISO 1185 is becoming less and less suitable for modern applications. Many fleet operators, manufacturers and suppliers are switching to modern standards such as ISO 12098 or even specialised connectors for EBS/ABS systems.
Nevertheless, ISO 1185 remains relevant in applications where basic lighting and simple trailers are sufficient. For new installations or upgrades, TRALERT® recommends taking future expansion into account and, where possible, adopting a modern standard straight away.
Related articles
Share this article:
ABOUT
TRALERT®
TRALERT® is the leading manufacturer and partner in high-quality LED lighting solutions for commercial vehicles. By taking care of everything from drawing board to realisation, you and your customers can hit the road safely, carefree and professionally lit.
VISIT
EXPERIENCE CENTRE
The TRALERT® Experience Centre is an interactive showroom with training and truck rooms. Experience TRALERT® LED vehicle lighting in practice and experience the lighting performance in different situations. Plan your Experience Centre visit.
PARTNER
TO BE
TRALERT® works with a dealer network. We assess each enquiry internally to determine whether collaboration is possible.
Author
Kevin van Mierlo
Lighting expert at TRALERT® - Kevin tests lighting and finds out everything about legislation. He can tell you all about it.
Featured lighting:
