If your 13 pin trailer plug has twisted out of position, this quick guide will help. A misaligned plug is a common issue on trailers and caravans, and it can stop the plug connecting properly to the socket. Watch the video below for the step by step process, then use the notes underneath as a quick reference.
Using an 8 pin or 7 pin plug instead? If you need wiring help rather than realignment, see our 8 pin trailer plug wiring guide or 7 pin trailer plug wiring guide.
Watch: How to Realign a 13 Pin Trailer Plug
What causes a 13 pin plug to become misaligned?
A 13 pin plug can become misaligned for a few simple reasons. It may not have been rotated far enough out of the socket, it may have twisted while being handled, or it may have moved while being stowed. When this happens, the locating lug inside the plug no longer lines up correctly with the socket, which can stop it fitting or locking in properly.
In the video, GT Towing explains that when the plug is correctly aligned, the small locating lug inside should sit at the three o’clock position when the top of the plug is treated as twelve o’clock.
How to tell if your plug is misaligned
Checking alignment is simple. Look inside the plug and find the small locating lug. If that lug is anywhere other than the three o’clock position, the plug is misaligned and needs adjusting.
- Correct alignment: inner lug at three o’clock
- Misaligned plug: inner lug sits in any other position
- Common symptom: plug will not line up or twist into the socket properly
How to realign a 13 pin plug
The video shows three simple ways to realign the plug, depending on what you have to hand and the type of plug you are using.
1) Use a screwdriver
If you do not have a dedicated tool, a simple screwdriver will usually do the job. Place the screwdriver against the small locating lug inside the plug and push it around gently until it clicks back into the correct position.
Once realigned, the inner lug and the outer locating points should match again.
2) Use a parking plug or alignment tool
A dedicated parking plug or realignment tool makes the job even easier. In the video, GT Towing shows how a modified parking plug can be used to line up the inner lug and twist the plug back into position.
This is a handy option if you want a simple tool you can keep with the trailer or caravan.
3) Twist the back of the plug
Depending on the manufacturer, some plugs can also be realigned by twisting the rear section of the plug body. This will not work on every plug, so check that your plug matches the type shown in the video before trying this method.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Forcing the plug into the socket. If it does not line up properly, check the lug position first.
- Assuming all 13 pin plugs are the same. Different manufacturers can use slightly different designs.
- Twisting the wrong part of the plug. Only use the rear twist method if your plug design allows it.
- Ignoring the issue. A misaligned plug can make connection awkward and may lead to damage if forced.
When is this guide useful?
This guide is useful if your 13 pin trailer or caravan plug suddenly stops lining up with the socket, feels twisted, or will not lock in properly. In many cases, the plug is not broken at all. It has simply moved out of alignment and can be corrected in a few seconds.
If the plug is damaged, cracked or badly worn, replacement may be the better option.
Buy a 13 pin caravan plug Buy a parking plug tool
FAQs
Why won’t my 13 pin plug connect properly?
One common reason is that the plug has become misaligned, so the locating lug inside is no longer in the correct position.
What position should the lug be in?
When the plug is correctly aligned, the small locating lug inside should sit at the three o’clock position.
Can I realign a 13 pin plug without a special tool?
Yes. The video shows that a simple screwdriver can often be used to push the lug back into place.
What is a parking plug used for?
A parking plug is designed to fit on the end of the plug when not in use to help prevent water ingress. It can also be adapted and used as a realignment tool.
Need help with trailer electrics?
If your plug is damaged, worn, or you need help with towing electrics, plugs, sockets or towbar wiring, speak to the GT Towing team.
Contact GT Towing View wiring diagrams
Read the full 7 pin, 8 pin and 13 pin guide.