Est. 1994
Current Version ISO 12098:2020
Scope 15-pin 24V trailer connectors
Regionality Worldwide

ISO 12098 is a standard for electrical trailer connectors used in the commercial vehicle industry. It has been developed as a replacement for the standards ISO 1185 and ISO 3731. The 15-pin system can transfer the same functionalities between towing vehicle and trailer as the prior system using only a single plug and socket connection. Additionally, it includes two data lines (CAN-H and CAN-L) according to ISO 11992-3 for the data interchange of equipment other than braking systems and running gear (which is covered by the ABS/EBS connector system according to ISO 7638-1).

The standard ISO 12098 specifies

  • the dimensional characteristics of 15-pin connectors for the electrical connection of equipment other than braking systems and running gear used in towing and towed vehicles with 24 V nominal supply voltage
  • the contact allocation as well as tests and requirements for the trailer connector system
  • a park socket for receiving and storing the plug when it is disconnected
  • a means of adaptation between 7- and 15-pin connectors

Contact Allocation for Connectors According to ISO 12098

 Contact no.FunctionCross-sectional areaCore insulation color
1Left-hand direction indicator light1,5 mm²yellow
2Right-hand direction indicator light1,5 mm²green
3Rear fog light1,5 mm²blue
4Common return2,5 mm²white
5Left-hand rear, position, and marker lights, and license plate lamp1,5 mm²black
6Right-hand rear, position, and marker lights, and license plate lamp1,5 mm²brown
7Brake lights1,5 mm²red
8Reversing light1,5 mm²pink
9Continuous power supply (steady, constant)2,5 mm²orange
10Reverse lock release for inertia brake and locking of steering axle1,5 mm²grey
11Starting-traction control system1,5 mm²white/black
12Axle lifting device1,5 mm²white/blue
13Common return for data lines2,5 mm²white/red
14CAN-H1,5 mm²white/green
15CAN-L1,5 mm²white/brown