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Originally Posted by RamVA
1. What's a good online source and what should I expect to pay?
2. Which pieces do I need? (Hitch, Ball/Tongue, and Wiring Harness?)
3. If I get the wiring harness does that also give me trailer brake control, or do I need a separate brake controller unit?
4. How long will the DIY install take (give or take)?
5. Any words of wisdom/caution?
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1 - I picked mine up from BMW of Richmond (VA) with a BMWCCA discount of 15%. I think my final cost was around $400, give or take.
2 - It should come as a kit with all the required pieces.
3 - You definitely want the wiring harness. I don't even know that you would want to do the hitch install without it. ( can't really address the trailer brake controller issue, as my trailer is pretty light and doesn't require brakes. it may very well be there, I just can't answer for sure.)
4 - Hmmmmm...I did it pretty much by myself in 4 hours, but two buddies came by just at the right time when I needed a little extra muscle. An extra hand is also good for lifting the heavy items and removing/reinstalling the bumper cover. Everything else is pretty straightforward. I'd allow 3-5 hours, depending upon how mechanically astute you are and if you've got help when and where needed (I see you have an Elise, so I'm assuming you'll have the necessary tools and expertise to end up on the shorter side of the install).
5 - In some places the install procedure didn't translate well. I researched the install online and got as much extra ammo as possible before I tore into it. The only problem I encountered was with the trailer light module that installs under the spare in the rear compartment, and it wasn't as much as problem as it was a clarity issue with the directions. Once I figured it out, it worked like a champ.
Good luck!