This is a really helpful thread. It really helped me determine what's required. The other two SUVs I've owned had the factory hitch and towing prep package.

My US spec is finally coming home to tow my 22 ft camping trailer this fall, so I figured it was time to prep. Our German dealer will be installing the hitch system, which I had shipped from the US. The OEM hitch assembly, wiring harness, electric brake control unit, and trim piece came as a bundle. (Turns out I could have saved a little cash if I'd known the brake controller was the Tekonsha Prodigy 2, with the label removed.)

My service rep just had to track down the firmware update for the vehicle's computer system. They have done very few of these installs, and were glad I brought the English manuals, thoughtfully provided in this thread.

The quote for the whole job is around US $850, which seems reasonable. Will report next month on how things turn out.

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2009 X35d Space Grey