Will my Mazda CX 5 charge the battery on my T@b?

DennisP

I have a 2005 Dutchmen T@b T16 with standard converter. I tie it with a 2021 Mazda CX 5 with a fully functional 7-pin plug. Will my car charge the battery on my trailer as I drive down the road? Thanks!

Grumpy_G

If "fully functional" includes constant 12V on pin 4 of the connector then basically yes. There is some voltage drop depending on wire gauge etc. which makes it slower than using the converter but it will work. 

Sharon_is_SAM

@DennisP - the CX 5 has a limited tow capacity of 2000 lbs.  It also has a limited payload.  I know the DM TaBs are lighter weight, but you still need to be able to stop your TV-trailer combo going down the road.  

https://drivinvibin.com/2021/04/03/mazda-cx-5-tow/

ChanW

Whether it will charge the Tab's battery will depend on the Mazda charge system, and the 'intelligence' it uses.

The alternator system on our Tacoma boosts the output for a short time after startup, but then kicks back to 'trickle charge', probably to meet fuel-mileage requirements. There was nothing I could do to convince it to put out enough to charge the Tab battery (I've got 8ga wire running back to the 7pin connector).

Others have had different experiences, maybe a different manufacturer, or maybe with a tow-package.

To @Sharon_is_SAM's point, if the Mazda CX-5 is underrated for the weight of the Tab (including any load you put in the car), you're putting yourself and others in a potentially dangerous situation. Take into account the 'frame' of the vehicle, the brakes, the suspension, for handling emergency maneuvers... Good possibility your insurance wouldn't cover if you were over-loaded and involved in a mishap. 

Quick Google of "2021 Mazda CX 5 towing capacity" gets

Up to 2,000 pounds of towing capacity on the Mazda CX-5. Towing capacities shown are maximums and must be reduced by the weight of any passenger, cargo hitch or optional equipment in the towing vehicle. ... Towing a trailer will have an effect on the vehicle's handling, braking, durability, performance and driving economy. https://www.dyermazda.com
How Much Can The MAZDA CX-5 & CX-9 Tow? | Dyer MAZDA